Authentic Thai Tom Yum Soup Recipe

Tom Yum Soup: A Burst of Thai Comfort in a Bowl

Hey friend! Ready to take your taste buds on a little trip to Thailand without leaving your kitchen? Today, we’re diving into Tom Yum Soup, the iconic hot-and-sour concoction that’s as vibrant in flavor as it is in color. This soup holds a special spot in my heart—it’s comforting, energizing, and surprisingly easy to whip up at home. Whether you’re battling a cold or just want a hug in a bowl, Tom Yum Soup has your back.

If you love bold flavors and want to bring some global zest to your dinner table, this is your soup soulmate!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold, Authentic Flavors: Fragrant aromas of lemongrass, lime, and chili bring Thai street food vibes right to your kitchen.
• Quick & Easy: From stovetop to table in under 30 minutes.
• Customizable: Add your choice of proteins or make it vegan-friendly—it’s easy to tweak!

Ingredients Breakdown

– Essentials –

• Lemongrass: A must for that signature citrusy aroma! Pro tip: smash the stalks before adding them to release even more flavor.
• Kaffir Lime Leaves: Adds zingy, citrusy undertones. Don’t skip these if you can get them—they’re a game-changer!
• Galangal (or Ginger): Brings a warm, earthy spice to balance the broth.
• Thai Bird’s Eye Chili: Adjust to taste depending on your heat tolerance. Love it spicy? Add a couple extra!
• Fish Sauce: The backbone of umami in the soup. For a vegan option, try soy sauce or coconut aminos.
• Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed is non-negotiable for that tangy pop.
• Mushrooms: I typically use straw mushrooms or oyster mushrooms, but any tender variety works beautifully.
• Shrimp or Chicken: I used shrimp for this, but feel free to swap for chicken slices or go meatless with tofu!
• Coconut Milk (optional): Adds creaminess if you’re in the mood for a Tom Kha twist.

– Pro Tips –

• If fresh herbs aren’t available, frozen lemongrass and lime leaves are great substitutes.
• Don’t boil the shrimp or chicken for too long—they cook quickly and can toughen if overcooked!

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Start by prepping your aromatics—bruise the lemongrass by gently smashing it with the back of a knife, and thinly slice the galangal.
2. In a medium-sized pot, bring 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth to a simmer.
3. Add the lemongrass, galangal, and kaffir lime leaves to the pot. Let these steep for about 5 minutes to infuse the broth with flavor.
4. Toss in the mushrooms and cook for 2-3 minutes until tender.
5. Now, add your shrimp (or protein of choice), fish sauce, and Thai chili. Simmer just until the shrimp turn pink—about 2-3 minutes for medium-sized shrimp.
6. Turn off the heat and stir in the lime juice. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed—more fish sauce for umami, more lime for tang.
7. For a creamy version, swirl in some coconut milk at this point.
8. Ladle into bowls, garnish with fresh cilantro and an extra squeeze of lime, and serve immediately! Enjoy!

Chef’s Tips and Tricks

• Serve immediately for the best taste—the flavors are most vibrant when the soup is fresh and hot.
• If you’re making it ahead, keep the protein separate and add it when reheating to avoid overcooking.
• Want a vegetarian option? Substitute the fish sauce with soy sauce, and tofu can make a lovely protein replacement.

Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions

• Protein Variations: Swap shrimp for chicken, fish, or even firm white tofu cubes.
• Vegetarian Version: Use vegetable broth and soy sauce instead of fish sauce.
• Pairings: Enjoy this soup alongside jasmine rice, or for a complete Thai-themed dinner, pair it with Thai basil fried rice or spring rolls.
• Extra Garnishes: Add sliced green onions, Thai basil leaves, or a drizzle of chili oil for extra flair.

FAQs

• Can I freeze Tom Yum Soup? Absolutely! Store it in an airtight container (preferably without the shrimp or coconut milk) for up to 3 months. Add fresh protein and coconut milk when reheating.
• How spicy is this soup? That’s up to you! Start with just one chili if you prefer mild and add more for extra heat.
• How do I store leftovers? Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to preserve the delicate flavors.

Printable Recipe

So there you have it—Tom Yum Soup that’s simple to make but delivers bold flavors in every spoonful. I can’t wait to hear about your delicious creations! If you try this recipe, let me know how it turned out in the comments below, or tag me on Instagram with #TheKitchensAid. Happy cooking!