Thai Soup with Glass Noodles and Meatballs

I recently experimented with making a Thai-inspired soup, and it turned out to be one of the easiest, tastiest, and healthiest meals I’ve cooked | Thai Soup with Glass Noodles and Meatballs. The combination of spicy red curry paste, crunchy vegetables, and light, gluten-free glass noodles made for a perfect dish. What I love most is that the soup is rich in vitamins, low in calories, and completely lactose-free. Glass noodles, made from rice flour, have a wonderfully soft texture and cook in just minutes, making them ideal for quick meals.

Working Time 15 Min.

cooking Time 15 Min.

Level simple

I was amazed at how simple and versatile this recipe is. You can easily adapt it by swapping in different vegetables or using tofu for a vegetarian version. It’s quick to prepare and offers a comforting meal that’s perfect for chilly evenings. Whether you’re a fan of Thai cuisine or just looking for something new, this soup is worth a try!

Recipe from Andrea

Why This Thai Soup is a Healthy Choice

This Thai Soup with Glass Noodles and Meatballs is not only delicious but also a great option when I want a healthy, balanced meal. The vegetables, especially pak choi and cauliflower, are loaded with vitamins A, C, and K, which are essential for immune health. Since glass noodles are made from rice flour, they’re naturally gluten-free, making the dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. The low fat content and use of lean meat make it a calorie-conscious choice, while the spices and curry paste give it a warming, satisfying flavor.

Instruction Video

Go-to comfort meal | Thai Soup with Glass Noodles and Meatballs

This Thai-inspired Soup with Glass Noodles and Meatballs is one of my go-to comfort meals, thanks to its bold flavors and healthy ingredients. Whether you're looking for a light lunch or a hearty dinner, this dish fits perfectly into a balanced diet. The spicy red curry paste creates a fragrant broth, while the addition of pak choi and cauliflower adds crunch and nutrients. The meatballs, lightly fried until golden, make the soup more filling and give it a satisfying bite.The beauty of this soup lies in its simplicity. Even though it feels fancy enough for a special dinner, it takes only around 30 minutes to prepare. Plus, glass noodles cook incredibly fast, saving you time without compromising on taste.

Meat Substitution Ideas

If you don’t have beef or lamb mince on hand or want to try a different variation, here are some excellent substitutes

• Chicken or Turkey:

  Use minced chicken or turkey for a leaner option. These meats absorb flavors well, making them perfect for this soup.

  
  

• Pork:

  Pork mince adds richness and works great with the curry paste and spices.

  
  

• Tofu:

  For a vegetarian version, crumble firm tofu into small pieces and fry them until crispy before adding them to the soup.

• Plant-based mince:

  There are many plant-based meat alternatives available that can be used as a direct substitute for minced meat.

Preparation Tips

1. Searing for extra flavor:When frying the meatballs, make sure to get a nice golden-brown sear on all sides. This helps lock in moisture and adds more flavor to the broth.

2. Roasting the cauliflower:Instead of just sautéing the cauliflower, you can roast it in the oven at 200°C for 15–20 minutes. This method brings out a deeper, nuttier flavor.

3. Adjusting spice levels:If you’re sensitive to heat, reduce the amount of red curry paste or use a mild version. Alternatively, if you love spicy food, add a few slices of red chili peppers for an extra kick.

4. Perfecting the broth:The key to a flavorful broth is letting the curry paste cook in the oil for a minute before adding the vegetables and water. This releases the full aroma of the spices.

   
   
   
   

   With these tips and variations, you can easily adapt this Thai-inspired soup to your taste. Whether you prefer it mild or extra spicy, with meatballs or tofu, it’s a dish that’s sure to please!

Working time	cooking Time	Niveau
15 Min.	15 Min.	simple

Ingredients:

• For the soup:

  • 100 g glass noodles

  • ½ pak choi, chopped

  • 1–2 tsp red curry paste

  • ¼ cauliflower, cut into florets

  • 1 cup water

  • Salt, to taste

  • ½ tsp maggi vegetable broth

  • Fresh coriander (for garnish)

  For the meatballs:

  • 350 g minced meat (beef or lamb)

  • ½ bunch fresh parsley, finely chopped

  • 2 tsp salt

  • 1 tsp smoked paprika

  • 3 tbsp corn grits

  • Oil, for frying

Instruction:

1. Preparing the Meatballs

   I started by mixing the minced meat with finely chopped parsley, salt, smoked paprika, and corn grits. After forming small, bite-sized meatballs, I fried them in a hot pan with a little oil until they were golden brown on all sides.

2. Cooking the Vegetables

   Without cleaning the pan, I added a bit more oil and tossed in the cauliflower. Sautéing the florets for a few minutes gave them a slightly charred flavor that added depth to the soup. I then set the meatballs and cauliflower aside.

3. Finishing Up

   Once the broth was ready, I returned the meatballs and cauliflower in big bowl. I added the curry paste and the vegetabel broth. The glass noodles only needed a couple of 6 minutes in the hot water to cook through. Before serving, I sprinkled fresh coriander on top for an extra burst of flavor.

Instruction Video for Help

Serving Suggestion

My Thai soup with glass noodles tastes best when served hot, topped with a squeeze of fresh lime juice and garnished with chopped fresh cilantro. For extra crunch and a nutty flavor, you can sprinkle some roasted peanuts or cashews on top. If you like your soup spicier, add a few chili flakes or finely sliced fresh chilies. It pairs well with crispy spring rolls or a fresh salad with an Asian-style dressing on the side.

FAQ's Find all your Answers about Thai Soup with Glass Noodles and Meatballs here:

• Can I make the soup in advance?

  Yes, you can prepare the soup a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight

  container in the fridge and reheat it gently before serving. Add the glass noodles only

  when reheating to keep them from becoming soggy.

• Is the soup gluten-free?

  Absolutely! Since glass noodles are made from rice flour and there’s no wheat

  in the ingredients, this soup is naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to check that

  your curry paste doesn’t contain any hidden gluten.

• How can I make the soup vegetarian or vegan?

  Simply replace the meatballs with tofu or plant-based mince, and ensure your

  curry paste doesn’t contain shrimp paste or other animal products.

• Can I freeze the soup?

  While the broth and vegetables freeze well, it’s best to add fresh glass noodles

  when you reheat the soup, as they can become mushy after freezing.

• What other vegetables can I add?

  You can add mushrooms, bell peppers, or carrots for extra texture and flavor.

  Just chop them into bite-sized pieces and sauté them along with the cauliflower.

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