Can I make Thai Breakfast Rice Soup with Shrimp without fish sauce?

Yes, you can make Thai Breakfast Rice Soup with Shrimp without fish sauce, especially if you need a pescatarian or low-sodium version. While fish sauce adds a signature umami depth, it can be replaced with light soy sauce , mushroom soy sauce , or a dash of tamari if you're avoiding fish products altogether. Keep in mind, though, that skipping fish sauce slightly alters the traditional flavor profile. To compensate, consider adding a pinch of sea salt or a splash of toasted sesame oil for richness.

How long does Thai Breakfast Rice Soup with Shrimp last in the fridge?

When stored properly, Thai Breakfast Rice Soup with Shrimp can last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days—but only if the broth and rice are kept in separate containers . Storing them together will cause the rice to absorb the liquid, turning the soup thick and porridge-like. To maintain the ideal brothy texture, reheat the broth and rice separately, then combine just before serving. The shrimp should also be stored apart and added at the last moment to avoid overcooking during reheating.

Is Thai Breakfast Rice Soup with Shrimp spicy?

By default, Thai Breakfast Rice Soup with Shrimp is not spicy. It has a mild, comforting flavor with a bit of warmth from white pepper and the fragrant herb paste. However, spice levels can be easily adjusted to your liking. If you enjoy heat, you can add sliced bird’s eye chilies, chili flakes, or chili vinegar as condiments. On the other hand, if you’re making it for children or someone with a sensitive palate, simply reduce the pepper or omit spicy garnishes.

Can I use leftover rice to make Thai Breakfast Rice Soup with Shrimp?

Absolutely. In fact, using leftover jasmine rice is one of the best ways to make Thai Breakfast Rice Soup with Shrimp. Day-old rice holds its shape better and doesn’t turn mushy when added to the hot broth. Just be sure the rice is fully reheated before serving, and avoid clumped or overly dried rice. If needed, break it apart gently before adding it to the soup. Using leftover rice also makes this dish quicker to prepare in the morning and prevents food waste—making it a convenient and sustainable choice.

Thai Breakfast Rice Soup with Shrimp – The Best 1-Bowl Comfort Meal

Description

A light, comforting Thai breakfast dish made with jasmine rice, shrimp, and a fragrant herb broth. Thai Breakfast Rice Soup with Shrimp is perfect for mornings when you want something warm, nourishing, and quick to prepare.

Ingredients

Scale

3 cups Shrimp
3 garlic cloves
¼ tsp white peppercorns
6 cilantro stems or 2 roots
~150g shrimp (chopped)
1 tbsp fish sauce
½ tbsp soy sauce
3 cups cooked jasmine rice
Optional: fried garlic oil
Optional: green onion
Optional: tang chai (preserved cabbage)

Instructions

Pound white peppercorns, garlic, and cilantro roots or stems into a fine paste.
Mix half of the paste with chopped shrimp and let marinate briefly.
Sauté the marinated shrimp with a bit of oil just until cooked through, deglaze the pan with stock and set aside.
Bring remaining stock to a boil, then add the other half of the herb paste. Simmer for one minute.
Season the broth with fish sauce and soy sauce. Taste and adjust as needed.
Bring the broth to a boil again, then add the cooked jasmine rice and sautéed shrimp. Simmer briefly.
Immediately turn off the heat to prevent overcooking.
Serve hot with optional toppings like fried garlic oil, green onion, and tang chai.

Notes

Use day-old jasmine rice for best texture.
Do not simmer rice and shrimp for too long to avoid mushiness or rubbery texture.
Store rice and broth separately if making ahead.
Customize flavor with condiments like white pepper or chili vinegar.
Vegetarian versions can use mushroom stock and tofu.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 280
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 800mg
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 20g
Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: Thai Breakfast Rice Soup with Shrimp, Khao Tom Goong, Thai rice soup, jasmine rice soup, shrimp soup, Thai comfort food, easy Thai breakfast