Authentic Thai Tom Yum Soup Recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 stalks of lemongrass (cut into 2-inch pieces and smashed)
  • 5 kaffir lime leaves (torn into pieces, discard the veins)
  • 10 Thai bird chilies (crushed)
  • 3 slices of galangal
  • 2 red onions (quartered)
  • 500 grams of shrimp (deveined and deshelled)
  • 200 grams of oyster mushrooms (cut into pieces)
  • 2 Roma tomatoes (quartered)
  • 2 cups of coconut milk
  • 1.5 liters of water
  • 2 tablespoons of fish sauce
  • 1 teaspoon of sugar
  • 2 tablespoons of lime juice
  • 2 tablespoons of fresh cilantro (chopped)

Steps and instructions

  1. Prepare a pot of 1.5 liters water and bring to a boil.
  2. Add the lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, Thai bird chilies, galangal, and red onions to the pot. Let it boil on medium heat for 15-20 minutes.
  3. Next, add the shrimp and mushrooms to the pot. Cook until the shrimp turns pink.
  4. Add the tomatoes and coconut milk, then stir well.
  5. Add the fish sauce and sugar, then stir until well mixed.
  6. Turn off the heat and add the lime juice, stirring well to combine.
  7. Finally, garnish the soup with fresh cilantro before serving.

Tools for making

  • Pot - for boiling the soup
  • Knife - for cutting the ingredients
  • Cutting board - to provide a surface for cutting
  • Spoon - for stirring the soup
  • Measuring cups - to measure the coconut milk and water
  • Bowls - for serving the soup

Recipe variations

  • Vegetarian Variation: Replace the shrimp with tofu or mushrooms for a meat-free version.
  • Chicken Tom Yum: Substitute the shrimp with chicken breast or thigh, thinly sliced.
  • Seafood Medley: Add a mix of seafood such as squid, mussels, and fish fillets alongside the shrimp.
  • Vegan Option: Omit the fish sauce and replace it with soy sauce or tamari for a vegan-friendly version.
  • Spicier Version: Increase the number of Thai bird chilies or add additional chili paste to make it hotter.
  • Coconut Milk-free: Use vegetable broth instead of coconut milk for a lighter and less creamy version.
  • Add Vegetables: Include your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, baby corn, or snap peas to add more texture and flavor.
  • Herb Variations: Experiment with adding other herbs like Thai basil or mint leaves for a twist.
  • Lime Leaves Substitute: If kaffir lime leaves are not available, you can use regular lime zest as a substitute.
  • Tom Yum Noodle Soup: Cook rice noodles separately and serve the soup over the noodles for a heartier meal.

Recipe overview

Experience the vibrant flavors of Thailand with this authentic Tom Yum soup recipe. Tom Yum, a traditional Thai soup known for its unique hot and sour flavors, is a staple in Thai cuisine. The fragrant ingredients like lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and galangal alongside shrimp, mushrooms, and a hint of coconut milk create a harmonious symphony of flavors that is both comforting and revitalizing. This recipe will guide you through the simple steps to create this Thai classic at home. Enjoy the taste of Thailand, one spoonful at a time.

Common questions

  1. Can I use chicken instead of shrimp? Yes, you can substitute shrimp with chicken in this recipe. Simply cut the chicken into small pieces and cook it until fully cooked before adding other ingredients.
  2. Can I make this recipe vegetarian? Absolutely! To make it vegetarian, you can omit the shrimp and replace fish sauce with soy sauce or a vegetarian alternative. Additionally, you can use vegetable broth instead of water for added flavor.
  3. Is it possible to make this recipe spicier? Certainly! If you prefer a spicier Tom Yum, you can increase the amount of Thai bird chilies or leave the seeds in. You can also add a teaspoon of chili paste or chili flakes for extra heat.
  4. Can I use different types of mushrooms? Yes, you can use any type of mushrooms you prefer or have available. Popular alternatives to oyster mushrooms include shiitake, button mushrooms, or straw mushrooms.
  5. What can I serve with Tom Yum? Tom Yum is delicious on its own, but it can be served with steamed jasmine rice or noodles for a more filling meal. It pairs well with Thai stir-fries or grilled seafood as well.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Pot - Used to boil the soup and cook the ingredients.
  • Cutting board - To prepare and chop the vegetables and herbs.
  • Knife - Essential for cutting and slicing the ingredients.
  • Cooking spoon - Used for stirring and mixing the soup.
  • Soup ladle - For serving the Tom Yum soup into bowls.
  • Bowls - To serve the soup.
  • Chopsticks - Optional utensil for eating the soup.
  • Serving tray - Optional for presenting and carrying the bowls of soup.

Origin stories

Tom Yum originates from Thailand, and its name directly translates to "boiling" or "hot" and "sour", which succinctly describes its signature spicy and sour flavor. This popular dish captures the essence of Thai cuisine, blending the key tastes of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy to create a harmonious and satisfying soup. Notably, Tom Yum was the food astronaut Leroy Chiao, a NASA astronaut, requested as his first meal back on Earth after spending six months aboard the International Space Station. This speaks to the international appeal and comforting nature of this quintessential Thai dish.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.