Spicy Calamari Turmeric Soup
A comforting yet vibrant soup inspired by Southern Thai cuisine, this dish is packed with tender calamari and aromatic Thai flavors. The warmth of turmeric blends beautifully with tangy tamarind, fresh herbs, and a hint of spice, making it the perfect dish for any occasion. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or impressing your guests! Enjoy!
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs 700g calamari, cleaned and cut into rings
- 3 small heads of shallots roughly chopped
- 6 cloves garlic crushed
- 1 stalk lemongrass bottom half only smashed and cut into 2-inch sections
- 5-6 thinly sliced galangal
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 5 kaffir lime leaves roughly torn
- 2 -3 small turmeric root sliced on a sharp bias
- Fresh Thai chilies crushed to taste
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce or to taste
- 2 tablespoons tamarind juice or to taste (substitute with lime juice is fine)
- Fresh chopped cilantro or green onion for garnish
Instructions
Build the Soup Base
- Bring 3 cups of water to a boil in a pot.
- Add shallots, garlic, lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, and turmeric to the boiling water.
- Add in tomatoes.
Cook the Calamari
- Lower the heat and add the calamari to the simmering water.
- Cook for 2–3 minutes or until the calamari is tender and no longer translucent. Avoid overcooking to keep the calamari soft.
Season the Soup
- Stir in tamarind juice and fish sauce to taste.
- Adjust the seasoning to your preference. For spice, crush some Thai chilies into the soup.
Serve and Garnish
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with fresh chopped cilantro or green onion.
- Serve on its own or pair with jasmine rice for a complete meal.
Video
Notes
If you use the lime juice, always lower the heat first to prevent the broth from being bitter.