Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Thai Tom Yum Soup is a vibrant and aromatic soup that delivers a perfect balance of spicy, sour, salty, and savory flavors. Originating from Thailand, this soup is known for its bold, zesty taste, thanks to ingredients like lemongrass, lime leaves, chili, and fish sauce. It’s a comforting and refreshing dish, perfect as an appetizer or a light meal. This soup is incredibly customizable, allowing you to adjust the spice level and ingredients based on your preferences.

ingredients

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

lemongrass
kaffir lime leaves
galangal (or ginger as a substitute)
Thai bird’s eye chilies (adjust to your spice preference)
fish sauce
lime juice
chicken or vegetable broth
mushrooms (typically straw or button mushrooms)
shrimp (or chicken, tofu, or vegetables for a variation)
coriander (cilantro) for garnish

directions

In a large pot, bring the chicken or vegetable broth to a boil.
Add the lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and galangal (or ginger). Let it simmer for about 10 minutes to infuse the flavors.
Add the Thai bird’s eye chilies, fish sauce, and lime juice, and stir to combine.
Add the mushrooms and shrimp (or your choice of protein/vegetables). Let it cook for 3-5 minutes or until the shrimp is cooked through.
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more fish sauce, lime juice, or chili, as desired.
Remove from heat and discard the lemongrass, lime leaves, and galangal pieces.
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh coriander (cilantro) leaves.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15-20 minutes
Total time: 25-30 minutes

Variations

Use tofu instead of shrimp or chicken for a vegetarian version.
Add a spoonful of Thai red curry paste for extra depth of flavor.
Use coconut milk for a creamier version of the soup.
Include baby corn, bamboo shoots, or other vegetables for added texture and flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in a pot over medium heat, adding a bit of water or broth if needed to thin it out.

FAQs

Can I make this soup less spicy?
Yes, simply reduce the number of chilies or remove them entirely for a milder version.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Use vegetable broth and swap the shrimp for tofu or extra vegetables.

Can I freeze Tom Yum Soup?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the broth base before adding the protein and vegetables for up to 1 month. When ready to serve, reheat and add your ingredients.

What if I can’t find kaffir lime leaves or galangal?
You can substitute with lime zest for the lime leaves and fresh ginger for the galangal.

Conclusion

Thai Tom Yum Soup is a bold, flavorful dish that offers a perfect balance of heat, tang, and savory goodness. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy or looking to try a new dish, this soup is a must-try. With its customizable flavors and simple preparation, it’s a delicious introduction to Thai cuisine that will warm you up and leave you craving more.