Khao Soi is a flavorful noodle soup made with a rich coconut curry broth, often topped with crispy noodles.

How long does Khao Soi take to make?

Khao Soi takes approximately 35-45 minutes to prepare.

Khao Soi Recipe – Laos's Creamy Curry

Name: Khao Soi
Prep time: 17 min
Cook time: 22 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Laos
Ingredients: brown sugar; can 400ml coconut milk; chicken; chicken shredded; chili peppers; cilantro; coriander; crispy noodles; dried; egg noodles; fish sauce; for garnish; for the soup; lime wedges; pickled mustard greens; red curry paste; red onions; soy sauce; turmeric powder; vegetable broth; vegetable oil

Khao Soi envelops tender egg noodles in a silky coconut curry broth infused with warm spices and turmeric warmth. This comforting Laotian soup combines the richness of coconut with the heat of red curry paste in perfect harmony. Served throughout Laos in street stalls and family homes, Khao Soi represents Southeast Asian noodle soup mastery. The crispy fried noodle garnish adds textural contrast that elevates every spoonful.

⚡ Medium 🔥 ~450 kcal / serving

Ingredients

For the Soup:
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 tablespoons red curry paste
1 tablespoon turmeric powder
1 tablespoon ground coriander
1 can (400ml) coconut milk
3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
2 tablespoons fish sauce
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon brown sugar
2 cups egg noodles (fresh or dried)
1 cup cooked chicken, shredded (optional)
For Garnish:
1/2 cup pickled mustard greens, chopped
1/4 cup crispy fried noodles
1/4 cup sliced red onions
Lime wedges
Fresh cilantro, chopped
Sliced chili peppers

Instructions

Prepare the Soup Base

Heat Oil

In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.

Cook Spices

Add the red curry paste, turmeric powder, and ground coriander. Saut√© for 2-3 minutes until the spices are fragrant.

Add Coconut Milk

Pour in the coconut milk and stir to combine with the spices.

Make the Soup

Add Broth and Seasonings

Add the chicken or vegetable broth, fish sauce, soy sauce, and brown sugar. Stir well and bring to a boil.

Simmer

Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Cook Noodles

If using dried egg noodles, cook them according to the package instructions. If using fresh noodles, add them directly to the pot with the soup.

Add Chicken

If using cooked chicken, add it to the pot and simmer for another 2-3 minutes.

Serve and Garnish

Serve the Khao Soi hot, garnished with pickled mustard greens, crispy fried noodles, sliced red onions, lime wedges, fresh cilantro, and sliced chili peppers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Khao Soi?

Khao Soi is a Laotian noodle soup combining silky egg noodles with a rich, creamy coconut curry broth infused with red curry paste, turmeric, and coriander. Topped with crispy fried noodles for textural contrast.

Where does Khao Soi come from?

Khao Soi is a traditional Laotian dish that reflects the country's love for noodle soups and coconut curries. It's served in homes, markets, and restaurants throughout Laos.

What are the main ingredients in Khao Soi?

The soup base combines red curry paste, coconut milk, turmeric powder, and coriander with chicken or vegetable broth, egg noodles, and optional shredded chicken.

Any tips for making the best Khao Soi?

Toast your curry paste and spices in oil first to develop depth, use full-fat coconut milk for richness, and fry noodles separately for crispy garnish before assembly.

What do you serve with Khao Soi?

Serve Khao Soi with pickled mustard greens, sliced red onions, lime wedges, fresh cilantro, and sliced chilies for a complete textured and flavored bowl.

Khao Soi