Pineapple Soup
Pineapple soup is a refreshing and vibrant dish that combines the tropical sweetness of pineapple with savory and spicy elements. Popular in Southeast Asian cuisine and often enjoyed in tropical climates, this soup is a delightful balance of sweet, sour, and spicy flavors.
Whether served warm as a comforting starter or chilled as a summer treat, pineapple soup is a versatile and flavorful addition to any meal. Perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a light, healthy dish, this recipe showcases the unique versatility of pineapple.
Ingredients
For the Soup:
1 medium pineapple, peeled, cored, and chopped (about 3 cups)
1 tbsp vegetable oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 small piece of ginger (about 1 inch), grated
1 small red chili, finely chopped (optional, for spice)
4 cups vegetable or chicken stock
1 tbsp fish sauce (optional, for depth of flavor)
1 tbsp soy sauce
Juice of 1 lime
Salt and pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
Fresh cilantro or basil leaves
Sliced red chili (optional)
Lime wedges
How to Make Pineapple Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion, garlic, ginger, and red chili (if using).
Sauté for 3–4 minutes until fragrant and the onion becomes translucent.
Step 2: Cook the Pineapple
Add the chopped pineapple to the pot and stir well to coat it with the aromatics.
Cook for 5–7 minutes, allowing the pineapple to caramelize slightly and release its juices.
Step 3: Add the Broth
Pour in the vegetable or chicken stock and bring the mixture to a boil.
Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for 15–20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 4: Blend the Soup
Remove the pot from heat and let it cool slightly.
Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. For a chunkier texture, blend only a portion of the soup.
Return the blended soup to the pot.
Step 5: Add Final Seasoning
Stir in the fish sauce (if using), soy sauce, and lime juice.
Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lime juice as needed.
Step 6: Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls.
Garnish with fresh cilantro or basil leaves, sliced red chili, and lime wedges for an extra pop of flavor.
Serve warm or chilled, depending on preference.
Chef’s Notes
Pineapple Variety: Choose ripe, sweet pineapple for the best flavor. Canned pineapple can also be used, but opt for unsweetened varieties and drain well.
Spice Level: Adjust the chili quantity to suit your spice tolerance. For a milder soup, omit the chili entirely.
Protein Addition: Add shrimp or shredded chicken to make this soup a heartier main course.
Vegan Option: Use soy sauce and vegetable stock, and skip the fish sauce to make this recipe vegan-friendly.
Serving Style: Serve warm as a comforting starter or chilled as a refreshing summer dish. Pair it with crusty bread or rice for a complete meal.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 120
Protein: 2g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fat: 3g
Fiber: 3g
Vitamin C: 70% of the Daily Value
Potassium: 10% of the Daily Value
(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and depend on portion sizes and specific ingredients used.)
Pineapple soup is a testament to the versatility of tropical fruits in savory dishes. The combination of sweet pineapple, zesty lime, and warming spices creates a flavorful soup that’s perfect for any season. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or craving a light, tropical-inspired dish, this pineapple soup is sure to impress. Enjoy!