Thai Tom Yum Soup

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Thai Tom Yum Soup is a vibrant, aromatic dish known for its bold, tangy, and spicy flavors. With a fragrant broth infused with lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, galangal, and chili, this soup is both refreshing and comforting. It typically features shrimp or chicken, mushrooms, and a splash of lime juice, making it a well-balanced and deeply satisfying meal. Perfect for fans of Thai cuisine or anyone looking to spice up their soup game.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

shrimp (or chicken)mushroomsgalangal (or ginger if unavailable)lemongrasskaffir lime leavesThai bird’s eye chiliesfish saucefresh lime juicecilantro (optional for garnish)chicken or vegetable brothtomatoesevaporated milk or coconut milk (optional for creamy version)onionsugar

directions

Bring chicken or vegetable broth to a boil in a large pot.

Add lemongrass (cut into 2-inch pieces and bruised), sliced galangal, and torn kaffir lime leaves. Simmer for 5-10 minutes to infuse the broth.

Add mushrooms, tomatoes, and sliced onions. Cook until vegetables begin to soften.

Add shrimp (or chicken) and cook until just done—shrimp will turn pink and opaque, chicken should be fully cooked through.

Stir in fish sauce, lime juice, and sugar. Adjust seasoning to taste—aim for a balance of sour, salty, and spicy.

For a creamy version, add evaporated milk or coconut milk and stir well.

Add whole or sliced Thai chilies for heat. Simmer briefly and remove from heat.

Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 20 minutesTotal time: 30 minutes

Variations

Use tofu or mixed vegetables for a vegetarian version (replace fish sauce with soy sauce).

Add rice noodles to make it a more filling dish.

Use lime zest or extra lime leaves for added citrus punch.

Swap shrimp for scallops, squid, or firm white fish for a seafood twist.

storage/reheating

Store Tom Yum Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Reheat gently on the stove over medium heat. Avoid boiling once shrimp or dairy is added, as it may overcook or curdle.Not recommended for freezing due to texture changes in shrimp and vegetables.

FAQs

What does “Tom Yum” mean?

“Tom” means boiling, and “Yum” refers to the spicy and sour flavor profile in Thai cuisine.

Can I use ginger instead of galangal?

Yes, if galangal is unavailable, ginger is a common substitute with a slightly different flavor.

Is Tom Yum Soup spicy?

Yes, it’s known for its heat, but you can control the spice level by adjusting the number of chilies.

What’s the difference between Tom Yum clear and creamy?

Clear Tom Yum has no added milk, while the creamy version includes coconut milk or evaporated milk for a richer texture.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, but add the shrimp and dairy just before serving to preserve freshness and texture.

What if I can’t find kaffir lime leaves?

You can use a combination of lime zest and bay leaf as a substitute.

Is Tom Yum Soup healthy?

Yes, it’s low in fat and rich in herbs and lean protein, making it a wholesome choice.

Can I add noodles to Tom Yum?

Absolutely, rice noodles make it a heartier meal.

Can I freeze leftovers?

It’s not ideal due to the texture of shrimp and dairy separation upon reheating.

What broth works best?

Chicken broth is commonly used, but vegetable broth works well for a vegetarian version.

Conclusion

Thai Tom Yum Soup is a bold, invigorating dish that brings the authentic flavors of Thailand to your kitchen. With its tangy lime juice, aromatic herbs, and spicy kick, it’s a standout soup that’s as nourishing as it is flavorful. Whether you prefer the classic clear style or the creamy version, it’s a must-try for lovers of spicy, citrusy cuisine

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