Thai Tom Yum Soup is a zesty and flavorful dish that warms your soul. With fragrant herbs, shrimp, and mushrooms, it’s perfect for a cozy night in or impressing guests!
This soup always makes me feel like a master chef, even if I just throw in whatever I have at home. The spicy kick combined with the fresh lime is just sooo good! 🍜
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Broth: I love using homemade chicken broth for a richer flavor, but water works too in a pinch. If you’re vegetarian, use vegetable broth for a lighter option.
Lemongrass: Fresh lemongrass is ideal for that authentic flavor. If you can’t find it, lemon zest or lemon juice can add a citrus note, though it won’t be exactly the same.
Kaffir Lime Leaves: These leaves bring a unique aroma. If you can’t get them, try using lime zest and a few drops of lime juice instead, but the taste will differ slightly.
Galangal: If galangal is hard to find, ginger is a good substitute. It won’t recreate the exact taste but will still provide warmth and spice.
Shrimp: Fresh shrimp is great, but frozen shrimp is a convenient alternative. You can also swap it with tofu or mushrooms if you’re looking for a plant-based option.
Fish Sauce: For a vegetarian version, use soy sauce or a vegan fish sauce that’s available in stores. It’s great to cater to dietary needs!
How Can I Make Sure My Soup is Full of Flavor?
Getting that deep, rich flavor in your Tom Yum Soup relies on properly infusing the ingredients. Start by simmering the aromatics like lemongrass and kaffir lime leaves in the broth. Here’s a simple way to ensure great flavor:
- Bring your broth to a boil first, then lower to a gentle simmer.
- Add your aromatics and let them steep for at least 5-10 minutes. This step is crucial!
- Make sure to add the fish sauce and lime juice at the end to keep their flavors bright and fresh. Tasting as you go is key! Adjust the seasoning to suit your palate.
Don’t rush this process—letting the ingredients mingle brings out the delicious taste we love in Tom Yum. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Delicious Thai Tom Yum Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 4 cups chicken broth or water
- 1 stalk lemongrass, cut into 2-inch pieces and smashed
- 3-4 kaffir lime leaves, torn into pieces
- 3 slices galangal (or ginger if unavailable)
- 2-3 Thai bird’s eye chilies, smashed (adjust to taste)
Main Components:
- 200g (about 7 oz) fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup straw mushrooms or other mushrooms, sliced
Flavorings:
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
Optional Add-ins:
- 1-2 tomatoes, quartered (optional)
- 100 ml (about 1/3 cup) coconut milk or evaporated milk (optional, for a creamy touch)
Garnishes:
- Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
- 2-3 green onions, cut into 1-inch pieces
- Fresh Thai basil or coriander stems (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful soup takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes to cook. So, in just under 30 minutes, you can whip up this delicious Tom Yum Soup, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Start the Broth:
In a medium pot, bring the chicken broth or water to a boil. This sets the stage for all those wonderful flavors to develop!
2. Infuse the Aromatics:
Add the smashed lemongrass, torn kaffir lime leaves, and galangal slices into the pot. Let it simmer gently for 5-10 minutes. This step is crucial as it allows the broth to soak up all those delicious aromas.
3. Add Vegetables:
Next, toss in the smashed bird’s eye chilies and sliced mushrooms. Continue boiling until the mushrooms are tender, about 3-5 minutes. You’ll start to smell the yummy spice combinations!
4. Cook the Shrimp:
Add the fresh shrimp into the pot and cook until they turn pink and opaque, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to overcook them!
5. Balance the Flavors:
Now, stir in the fish sauce, lime juice, and sugar. Take a moment to taste the soup; you may want to adjust the seasoning to get the perfect balance of salty, sour, and spicy flavors.
6. Optional Creaminess:
If you enjoy a creamy texture, stir in the coconut milk or evaporated milk now, and mix until smooth.
7. Add the Final Touches:
Include the quartered tomatoes (if using) and green onions. Allow them to soften slightly for about another 2 minutes.
8. Serve & Enjoy:
Remove the pot from heat and ladle the soup into serving bowls. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh cilantro and, if you like, some Thai basil leaves!
9. Dig In!
Serve hot and savor the vibrant, tangy goodness of your homemade Thai Tom Yum Soup. Perfect on its own or with a side of rice!
This easy recipe brings together the iconic sour, spicy, and savory notes of authentic Tom Yum, making it a delightful dish that’s sure to impress! Enjoy every bowl! 🍲
Can I Use Different Proteins in This Soup?
Absolutely! While shrimp is traditional, you can substitute it with chicken, tofu, or even fish. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time—chicken should be cooked through, and tofu can be added to warm through at the end.
What Can I Substitute for Kaffir Lime Leaves?
If you can’t find kaffir lime leaves, lime zest can act as a substitute. It won’t replicate the exact flavor, but it will add a refreshing citrus note to the soup. You can also use regular lime leaves if available.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It may thicken as it cools; simply reheat on the stove, adding a splash of broth or water to restore the desired consistency.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make it vegetarian! Swap out the chicken broth for vegetable broth, replace the shrimp with tofu or more mushrooms, and use soy sauce instead of fish sauce for that umami kick!