International Cuisine > Thai Cuisine > Soups (Thai) > Tom Kha Gai Soup Recipe

Tom Kha Gai: Classic Thai Coconut Soup

Experience the creamy, fragrant flavors of Thailand with this easy-to-follow Tom Kha Gai recipe. This coconut soup is a delightful blend of sweet, sour, and savory, perfect for a comforting meal.

Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
20 minutes
Servings
4
Ingredients
  • 4 cups Chicken broth
  • 1 can (13.5 oz) Coconut milk
  • 1 lb Chicken breast
  • 2 inch piece Galangal
  • 2 stalks Lemongrass
  • 5 leaves Kaffir lime leaves
  • 2 tablespoons Fish sauce
  • 3 tablespoons Lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon Sugar
  • 8 oz Mushrooms
  • 2-3 Thai chili peppers
  • 1/4 cup Cilantro

Prepare the Broth Base

In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the chicken broth and coconut milk. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.

Add Aromatics

Add the sliced galangal, bruised lemongrass, and kaffir lime leaves to the pot. These aromatics are crucial for the authentic Tom Kha Gai flavor. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes to infuse the broth.

Cook the Chicken

Add the thinly sliced chicken breast to the simmering broth. Cook until the chicken is cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

Incorporate the Mushrooms

Add the sliced mushrooms to the pot and cook until they are tender, about 3-5 minutes.

Season and Finish

Stir in the fish sauce, lime juice, and sugar. Add the sliced Thai chili peppers if using. Adjust the seasonings to your preference. Simmer for another 2 minutes.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve hot.

Nutrition Facts Estimated per 100g of product

Calories: 50-70, Protein: 4-6g, Fat: 3-5g, Carbohydrates: 2-4g. (Note: These values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and quantities used.)

Other Important Considerations for Nutrition

  • This soup is relatively low in calories and carbohydrates, making it a healthy choice.
  • The coconut milk provides healthy fats, but consume in moderation.
  • Adjust the amount of fish sauce and sugar based on your dietary needs.
  • Consider using low-sodium chicken broth to reduce sodium content.

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FAQ

  • Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

    Yes, you can use chicken thighs. They will add a richer flavor to the soup, but may require a longer cooking time.
  • Where can I find galangal and kaffir lime leaves?

    These ingredients can usually be found in Asian grocery stores. If you can't find galangal, you can substitute it with ginger, although the flavor will be slightly different. Kaffir lime leaves can be frozen for later use.
  • Can I make this soup vegetarian?

    Yes, substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and replace the chicken with tofu or additional mushrooms.
  • How spicy is this soup?

    The spiciness of the soup depends on the amount of Thai chili peppers used. Adjust the quantity according to your preference. You can also omit them entirely for a milder soup.