Fragrant Thai Tom Kha Soup

Tom Kha Soup is a jewel of Thai cuisine, a fragrant and velvety masterpiece that offers a comforting escape in every spoonful. Known for its distinct citrusy aroma and rich coconut base, this soup perfectly balances tender chicken and earthy mushrooms with a sophisticated blend of traditional herbs like lemongrass and galangal. It is a dish that feels both light and deeply satisfying, making it a favorite for those seeking an authentic taste of Thailand at home.

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The secret to an authentic Tom Kha lies in the slow infusion of aromatics. As the lemongrass, galangal, and kaffir lime leaves simmer in the coconut broth, they release essential oils that create a complex, layered flavor profile. This aromatic foundation is what elevates the soup from a simple broth to a gourmet experience.

Ingredients

• Protein: 300 g (10 oz) boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, thinly sliced
• Broth & Base: 400 ml (1 can) coconut cream, 500 ml (2 cups) chicken stock, 2 stalks lemongrass (trimmed and bruised), 4 slices fresh galangal (or 1 tbsp ginger), 4 kaffir lime leaves (torn)
• Vegetables & Aromatics: 200 g (7 oz) button mushrooms (sliced), 2 small shallots (thinly sliced), 2 cloves garlic (smashed), 2–3 Thai birds eye chilies (smashed, optional)
• Seasoning: 2 tbsp fish sauce, 1 tbsp lime juice, 1 tsp sugar, salt to taste
• Garnish: Fresh cilantro leaves, extra lime wedges

Instructions

Step 1

In a large saucepan, combine the coconut cream and chicken stock. Add the lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, shallots, garlic, and chilies. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.

Step 2

Allow the broth to simmer for 10 minutes to fully infuse the base with the aromatic oils from the herbs.

Step 3

Add the sliced chicken and mushrooms to the pot. Continue to simmer for 8–10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the mushrooms are tender.

Step 4

Carefully remove and discard the lemongrass stalks, galangal slices, and kaffir lime leaves.

Step 5

Stir in the fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, and salt. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed to reach your preferred balance.

Step 6

Ladle the soup into warm bowls. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve with extra lime wedges on the side.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For extra richness, you can use coconut milk instead of coconut cream. To ensure the best flavor, make sure to bruise the lemongrass stalks thoroughly with the back of a knife before adding them to the pot to release their fragrant oils.

Varianten und Anpassungen

To create a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with firm tofu cubes and use soy sauce in place of the fish sauce. You can also adjust the heat level by increasing or decreasing the quantity of Thai birds eye chilies used.

Serviervorschläge

This soup pairs exceptionally well with a side of fragrant jasmine rice, which complements the creamy broth. For a more festive presentation, serve the soup in traditional ceramic bowls with plenty of fresh lime wedges and cilantro for garnishing at the table.

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With its velvety texture and intoxicating aroma, this Tom Kha Soup is a celebration of Thai culinary tradition. It is a versatile dish that works beautifully as a sophisticated starter or a hearty main course. Enjoy the perfect balance of creamy, spicy, and sour flavors in every bowl.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make Tom Kha soup vegetarian?

Yes, simply replace chicken with firm tofu and use soy sauce instead of fish sauce. Use vegetable stock in place of chicken stock for a completely plant-based version.

→ What's the difference between galangal and ginger?

Galangal has a sharper, more citrusy and piney flavor compared to ginger. While ginger can substitute in a pinch, galangal provides the authentic Tom Kha taste and is worth seeking out at Asian markets.

→ Can I use coconut milk instead of coconut cream?

Absolutely. Coconut milk will create a lighter, less rich broth. You can also use a combination of both for a medium consistency that balances creaminess with a lighter texture.

→ How spicy is Tom Kha soup traditionally?

Tom Kha is typically mildly spicy with a focus on aromatic flavors rather than heat. The chilies add subtle warmth, but you can adjust the quantity to your preference or omit them entirely for a mild version.

→ Can I prepare Tom Kha soup in advance?

Yes, Tom Kha can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen over time. Reheat gently and add fresh lime juice and cilantro just before serving for the best taste.

→ What should I serve with Tom Kha soup?

Tom Kha pairs beautifully with jasmine rice to soak up the flavorful broth. It also works well alongside spring rolls, Thai basil chicken, or as part of a multi-course Thai meal.