International Cuisine > Thai Cuisine > Soups (Thai) > Tom Yum Soup Recipe

Authentic Tom Yum Soup (Tom Yum Goong)

Experience the vibrant flavors of Thailand with this classic Tom Yum soup recipe. This hot and sour soup is packed with aromatic herbs, succulent shrimp, and a spicy kick that will awaken your taste buds. Perfect as a starter or a light meal, this Tom Yum Goong recipe brings the essence of Thai cuisine to your kitchen. This is a family recipe passed down for generations, ensuring an authentic taste.

Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
20 minutes
Servings
4
Ingredients
  • 250 g Shrimp (peeled and deveined)
  • 1.5 L Chicken Broth
  • 3 stalks Lemongrass (bruised)
  • 5-6 slices Galangal (sliced)
  • 6-8 leaves Kaffir Lime Leaves (torn)
  • 4-6 pieces Thai Chilies (crushed)
  • 3 tbsp Fish Sauce
  • 4 tbsp Lime Juice
  • 200 g Mushrooms (straw or button, halved)
  • 10 pieces Cherry Tomatoes (halved)
  • 2 tbsp Cilantro (chopped, for garnish)
  • 1 tsp Sugar
  • 2 pieces Shallots (thinly sliced)

Prepare the Aromatic Base

In a large pot, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Add the lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, shallots and crushed Thai chilies. These ingredients form the foundation of the Tom Yum's distinctive flavor profile. Simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse into the broth. This step is crucial for developing the authentic Tom Yum taste.

Add the Mushrooms and Tomatoes

Add the mushrooms and cherry tomatoes to the simmering broth. Cook for another 5 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender. The mushrooms add an earthy note and the tomatoes provide a subtle sweetness that balances the spiciness.

Incorporate the Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the pot and cook until they turn pink and opaque, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become rubbery. The shrimp should be cooked through but still tender.

Season and Finish

Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the fish sauce, lime juice, and sugar. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. The balance of sour, salty, sweet, and spicy is essential for a well-balanced Tom Yum soup. Add more lime juice for sourness, fish sauce for saltiness, or sugar for sweetness, according to your preference.

Garnish and Serve

Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. Serve hot and enjoy! Tom Yum soup is traditionally served hot to fully appreciate its aromatic and flavorful qualities.

Nutrition Facts Estimated per 100g of product

(Note: These values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and quantities used.)

  • Calories: Approximately 50-70 kcal
  • Protein: 5-7g
  • Fat: 2-4g
  • Carbohydrates: 3-5g
  • Sodium: Varies depending on fish sauce content

Other Important Considerations for Nutrition

  • Sodium Content: Tom Yum soup can be high in sodium due to the fish sauce. Use low-sodium fish sauce or adjust the quantity to reduce sodium intake.
  • Spice Level: The spiciness of Tom Yum soup can be adjusted by controlling the amount of Thai chilies used.
  • Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, or zucchini to increase the nutritional value.
  • Allergies: Be mindful of shellfish allergies when serving Tom Yum soup with shrimp. Consider using tofu or chicken as an alternative.

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FAQ

  • Can I make Tom Yum soup vegetarian?

    Yes, you can easily make Tom Yum soup vegetarian. Replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth and substitute the shrimp with tofu or extra mushrooms. Ensure the fish sauce is replaced with soy sauce or a vegetarian fish sauce alternative.
  • How can I control the spiciness of the soup?

    The spiciness of Tom Yum soup comes from the Thai chilies. Reduce the number of chilies or remove the seeds before adding them to the broth. You can also serve the chilies separately for individuals to add to their own bowls.
  • Can I use pre-made Tom Yum paste?

    Yes, you can use pre-made Tom Yum paste for convenience. However, using fresh ingredients will result in a more authentic and flavorful soup. If using paste, adjust the amount according to your taste preference and follow the package instructions.