Cool, creamy, and full of Thai flavor
This Thai cucumber soup is like an ice-cold breeze on a hot day. It’s creamy from coconut milk, bright with lime, and full of fresh herbs.
It takes just minutes to make—no stove, no heat, no stress.
🛒 What You’ll Need
- 2 large cucumbers, peeled and chopped
- 1 can (13.5 oz) unsweetened coconut milk
- Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tablespoons)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 1 tablespoon fresh mint leaves
- 1 small garlic clove
- 1/2 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1–2 teaspoons fish sauce (optional, for savory depth)
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional)
- Ice cubes (optional, to chill fast)
- Thinly sliced red chili or extra herbs (for garnish)
🧡 Why I Love This Recipe
The first time I had a cold Thai-style soup like this, it was in a tiny beach café in Thailand. It was the middle of the day, humid, and this soup felt like a reset button. I’ve been making it ever since—especially when it’s too hot to even think about turning on the stove.
- It’s creamy without being heavy.
- So easy—just blend and chill.
- The combo of herbs, lime, and coconut is super refreshing.
- Feels fancy but takes no time at all.
- Great as a starter or light lunch.
Servings: 4
Total Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
🧠 Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
- Cucumbers are mostly water, so they blend into a smooth, hydrating base.
- Coconut milk adds richness and fat to carry the herbal flavors.
- Lime juice brightens everything and balances the coconut’s natural sweetness.
- Ginger and garlic add depth and a little heat to balance the coolness.
🍽 Meal Plan Ideas
- Serve before Thai curry or noodle dishes
- Pair with rice paper rolls or shrimp skewers
- Add to a light lunch with a side of sticky rice and pickled veggies
- Use as a starter for a summer dinner party
😬 Common Mistakes
- Using thick, seedy cucumbers – Choose ones with fewer seeds for a smoother texture
- Too much garlic – It’ll overpower the fresh flavors
- Skipping the salt or acid – Balance is everything in this soup
- Blending too long – You don’t want it foamy
🍴 What to Serve With
- Grilled lemongrass chicken
- Thai rice noodles with peanut sauce
- A light Thai cucumber salad
- Coconut rice or sticky jasmine rice
❓ FAQ
Can I use yogurt instead of coconut milk?
Sure, but the flavor will be more tangy and less creamy.
What herbs can I use if I don’t have cilantro?
Try Thai basil or more mint for a slightly different flavor.
Can I make it spicy?
Yep! Add a few slices of red chili or a dash of sriracha.
How long does it last?
Up to 2 days in the fridge. Stir before serving.
👨🍳 Tools You’ll Need
- Blender or food processor
- Cutting board & knife
- Citrus juicer (or squeeze by hand)
- Measuring spoons
- Serving bowls
🧂 Substitutions & Variations
- Use Greek yogurt for a tangy twist
- Add avocado for extra creaminess
- Sub lime juice with rice vinegar for a sharper edge
- Toss in a small piece of lemongrass (bruised) and strain before serving
- Make it spicy with a Thai chili or chili oil drizzle
⏳ Make Ahead Tips
- Blend the soup a day ahead and keep chilled
- Garnish right before serving for the freshest look and flavor
- Add ice cubes just before eating for that extra chill
👨🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Cucumbers
Peel and chop cucumbers into chunks. If they’re seedy, scoop them out first.
Step 2: Add Everything to the Blender
In your blender, add chopped cucumber, coconut milk, lime juice, cilantro, mint, garlic, grated ginger, salt, fish sauce (if using), and sugar (if using).
Step 3: Blend Until Smooth
Blend everything on high for about 30–45 seconds until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 4: Chill and Garnish
Pour soup into bowls and chill in the fridge for 30 minutes (or serve right away with a few ice cubes). Garnish with thin chili slices or more herbs.
🧊 Leftovers & Storage
- Keep in a sealed jar or container for up to 2 days in the fridge
- Stir well before serving again
- Not freezer-friendly (the texture changes)
💬 Let’s Wrap It Up
This cold Thai cucumber soup is a total summer game-changer—refreshing, creamy, and full of bold flavor. Try it once, and you’ll keep it on repeat. Let me know how yours turns out or drop a question in the comments. I’d love to hear from you!