Tom Yum Soup is a classic Thai hot and sour soup that’s light, aromatic, and bursting with bold flavors. Made with fragrant herbs like lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and galangal, it is combined with shrimp, mushrooms, and a tangy broth for a comforting and refreshing dish.
Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 liter water or chicken stock
- 2 stalks lemongrass, smashed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 4 slices galangal
- 4-5 kaffir lime leaves, torn
- 3-4 bird’s eye chilies, sliced
- 200g shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 150g mushrooms, sliced (e.g., straw mushrooms or button mushrooms)
- 2-3 tablespoons fish sauce
- 2-3 tablespoons lime juice (adjust to taste)
- 1-2 teaspoons sugar (optional)
- 2 tablespoons Tom Yum paste (optional, for extra flavor)
- Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
Preparation
- Boil the broth: In a medium pot, bring water or chicken stock to a boil.
- Infuse the flavors: Add lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, and chilies. Simmer for 5-7 minutes to release the flavors.
- Cook mushrooms and shrimp: Add mushrooms and cook for 2-3 minutes. Add shrimp and simmer until they turn pink and are fully cooked (about 2-3 minutes).
- Season: Stir in fish sauce, lime juice, and sugar (if using). Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Optional paste: Add Tom Yum paste for a richer flavor, stirring to dissolve.
- Serve: Ladle into bowls, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve with lime wedges on the side.
Preparation Time
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Cooking time: 15 minutes
Serves
- 2-3 people
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 120
- Protein: 12g
- Fat: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 850mg
Notes
- Adjust spice level: Use more or fewer chilies depending on your heat tolerance.
- Vegetarian option: Use vegetable broth and tofu instead of shrimp, and replace fish sauce with soy sauce.
- Add-ins: Cherry tomatoes and baby corn are also popular additions.
- Storage: Tom Yum Soup is best enjoyed fresh but can be refrigerated for up to 1 day.
This refreshing and zesty soup is sure to transport you straight to the heart of Thailand!