Tom Yum Kung Soup Recipe

Mak Erot

3 min read

·

Apr 03, 2025

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Tom Yum Kung Soup: A Spicy, Aromatic Thai Delight

Tom Yum Kung soup, a classic Thai dish, is renowned for its vibrant flavors and fragrant aroma. This recipe will guide you through creating this culinary masterpiece at home. Get ready for a flavorful journey!

Ingredients for Authentic Tom Yum Kung

This recipe serves 4-6 people. Adjust quantities as needed.

• Broth:

  • 8 cups Chicken or Vegetable Broth (you can use homemade or store-bought)
  • 1 stalk Lemongrass, bruised and roughly chopped
  • 3-4 Kaffir Lime Leaves, roughly torn
  • 2-3 stalks Galangal, thinly sliced (or 1 inch ginger, thinly sliced as a substitute)
  • 2-3 Thai Red Chillies, sliced (adjust to your spice preference)
  • 1-2 tablespoons Fish Sauce (adjust to taste, be mindful of saltiness from broth)
  • 2 tablespoons Lime Juice (freshly squeezed is best)
  • 1 tablespoon Palm Sugar (or brown sugar)
  • 1 teaspoon Salt (or to taste)

• Protein & Vegetables:

  • 1 pound Raw Shrimp, peeled and deveined (preferably large shrimp)
  • 1 cup Mushrooms, sliced (shiitake or cremini recommended)
  • 1/2 cup Cherry Tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 cup Cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • 1 Lime, cut into wedges (for serving)

Step-by-Step Tom Yum Kung Recipe

1. Prepare the Broth: In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the broth, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, galangal (or ginger), and chilies. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. This step releases the essential oils for maximum flavor.

2. Simmer for Flavor: Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

3. Season the Broth: Stir in the fish sauce, lime juice, and palm sugar. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. You want a balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy. Salt can be added cautiously, considering the saltiness of the fish sauce and broth.

4. Add Protein & Vegetables: Add the shrimp and mushrooms to the simmering broth. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the shrimp is pink and opaque. Overcooking will make the shrimp rubbery.

5. Finishing Touches: Gently stir in the cherry tomatoes. Cook for another minute until they are slightly softened. Avoid overcooking the tomatoes; you want them to retain their texture.

6. Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the Tom Yum Kung soup into bowls. Garnish generously with fresh cilantro and serve immediately with lime wedges for extra zing.

Tips for the Best Tom Yum Kung Soup

• Fresh Ingredients are Key: The quality of your ingredients directly impacts the taste. Use the freshest lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and galangal possible.

• Adjust the Spice Level: Control the heat by adjusting the number of chilies you use. Start with fewer and add more gradually to your preference.

• Don't Overcook the Shrimp: Overcooked shrimp become tough. Cook just until pink and opaque.

• Garnish Generously: Fresh cilantro adds brightness and freshness. The lime wedges allow for individual adjustment of tartness.

• Make it Vegetarian: Substitute the shrimp with tofu or mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian version.

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This detailed recipe ensures your Tom Yum Kung soup is a flavorful success, perfect for impressing your friends and family or simply enjoying a delicious, authentic Thai meal at home. Remember to adjust the spice level to your liking! Enjoy!