Thai Coconut Soup

January is #NationalSoupMonth, and this Thai Coconut Soup deserves a spot in your meal plan. This recipe relies on pantry staples, so you can make a batch whenever the mood strikes. Garlic, ginger, and chili flakes bring an exciting depth of flavor that enhances the jarred curry paste. You can always turn up the heat or dial it back by adjusting the curry paste and chili flakes to suit your taste. Don’t forget, the coconut milk adds a nice creaminess that balances the heat.

Serves 2-3

Total time: 1 hour

Vegan

1 pound firm tofu

5 tablespoons sunflower oil, divided

15-ounce can coconut milk

¼ cup cane sugar

3 tablespoons Thai red curry paste

3 tablespoons tamari

3 tablespoons lime juice

1 small onion, julienned

2 tablespoons minced garlic

2 tablespoons minced ginger

½ teaspoon crushed red chili flakes

2 cups vegetable broth

½ pound yellow potatoes, halved and sliced

1.       Preheat oven to 350°F. Break tofu into bite size pieces and toss with 2 tablespoons sunflower oil. Place on a baking sheet and bake for 20-30 minutes, turning occasionally until lightly golden brown.

2.       Meanwhile, whisk together coconut milk, sugar, red curry paste, tamari, and lime juice. Set aside.

3.       Heat remaining oil in a 2-quart stockpot over medium-low heat. Sauté onion until tender, approximately 3-5 minutes. Add garlic, ginger, and red chili flakes; cook until fragrant.

4.       Add broth and potatoes. Bring to a gentle simmer and cover. Simmer until potatoes are just tender, approximately 5-8 minutes.

5.       Stir in coconut mixture and adjust seasoning to taste. Add tofu and serve.