Southern-Style Carolina Shrimp Soup (Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free)

Ingredients:

• 1 lb shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 2 tbsp olive oil or coconut oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 celery stalk, diced
• 1 medium carrot, diced
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 4 cups seafood broth (or chicken broth)
• 1 cup coconut milk (unsweetened)
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for spice)
• 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
• ½ tsp thyme
• ½ tsp black pepper
• Salt to taste
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 cup okra, sliced (optional, for a Southern touch)

Instructions:

1. Sauté the aromatics: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion, garlic, bell pepper, celery, and carrot. Sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
2. Add spices and tomatoes: Stir in smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, Old Bay seasoning, thyme, black pepper, and salt. Cook for another minute. Add the canned diced tomatoes and stir.
3. Pour in the broth: Add seafood or chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 10–15 minutes.
4. Stir in coconut milk: Add the coconut milk and sliced okra (if using). Simmer for another 5 minutes.
5. Cook the shrimp: Add the shrimp and cook for 3–4 minutes until they turn pink and opaque.
6. Finish with lemon and parsley: Stir in lemon juice and fresh parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
7. Serve: Ladle into bowls and enjoy warm!

This soup is hearty, creamy, and packed with flavor without using dairy or gluten. It pairs well with cauliflower rice or gluten-free cornbread.

Would you like any modifications based on your dietary preferences? 😊