Tom Yum Soup

Tom Yum Soup is a quintessential Thai dish, celebrated for its vibrant and aromatic qualities. This soup brings together a complex profile of lemongrass, lime, and Thai chiles, creating a sensory experience that is perfectly balanced between sour, spicy, salty, and savory notes.

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The secret to a great Tom Yum lies in its broth, which is infused with galangal, lemongrass, and kaffir lime leaves. These traditional aromatics provide a fragrant depth that complements the heat of the Thai chiles and the freshness of the succulent shrimp.

Ingredients

• Broth Base: 4 cups chicken or vegetable stock, 2 stalks lemongrass (trimmed and smashed), 4 kaffir lime leaves (torn), 3 slices galangal or ginger, 2 Thai birds eye chiles (sliced).
• Vegetables & Aromatics: 200 g mushrooms (sliced), 2 medium tomatoes (wedges), 1 small onion (sliced), 3 cloves garlic (smashed).
• Protein: 300 g shrimp (peeled and deveined) or tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Seasonings & Finish: 3 tbsp fish sauce (or soy sauce), 2 tbsp fresh lime juice, 1 tsp sugar, 1 tsp chili paste (optional), fresh cilantro, 2 green onions, lime wedges.

Instructions

Step 1

In a medium pot, bring the stock to a gentle boil. Add lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, galangal, chiles, garlic, and onion. Simmer for 10 minutes to let the flavors infuse.

Step 2

Add mushrooms and tomatoes. Cook for 5 minutes until mushrooms are tender.

Step 3

Add shrimp (or tofu) and simmer just until shrimp turn pink and are cooked through, about 2–3 minutes.

Step 4

Stir in fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, and chili paste if using. Taste and adjust seasoning for salt, sourness, and heat as desired.

Step 5

Remove from heat. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with cilantro and green onions. Serve with lime wedges.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

To get the most flavor out of your aromatics, ensure you smash the lemongrass and garlic well before adding them to the stock. While these aromatics provide the flavor, they are traditionally not eaten; you can use a strainer to remove them before serving if you prefer a clearer broth.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For a vegetarian or vegan version, simply use vegetable stock, replace the shrimp with firm tofu, and use soy sauce instead of fish sauce. You can also adjust the spice level by increasing or decreasing the number of Thai birds eye chiles used in the broth.

Serviervorschläge

Serve this aromatic soup steaming hot, garnished with plenty of fresh cilantro and green onions. For a more filling meal, pair it with a bowl of steamed jasmine rice, which helps soak up the savory broth.

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Enjoy this bold and aromatic Thai classic that brings a perfect balance of heat and zest to your table. Whether you prefer it with shrimp or tofu, it remains a comforting and healthy choice for any soup lover.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make Tom Yum soup vegetarian?

Yes, simply use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock, substitute tofu for shrimp, and replace fish sauce with soy sauce. The aromatic herbs and lime will still deliver authentic flavors.

→ What can I use if I can't find galangal?

Fresh ginger makes an excellent substitute for galangal. While the flavor is slightly different, it will still provide the aromatic, spicy note that's essential to the soup.

→ How spicy is Tom Yum soup?

The heat level is adjustable. Start with fewer Thai chiles and add more to taste. You can also reduce or omit the chili paste. The lime and lemongrass provide flavor without heat.

→ Can I prepare Tom Yum soup in advance?

You can prepare the broth base ahead and refrigerate it. Add fresh vegetables, protein, and final seasonings just before serving to maintain the best texture and vibrant flavors.

→ What should I serve with Tom Yum soup?

Steamed jasmine rice is the traditional accompaniment, making it a complete meal. You can also serve it with Thai spring rolls or as part of a multi-course Thai dinner.

→ Where can I find kaffir lime leaves?

Look for kaffir lime leaves in Asian grocery stores, either fresh or frozen. They're essential for authentic flavor. In a pinch, regular lime zest can provide some citrus note, though it won't be identical.