Tom Yum Soup
An authentic, fiery, and tangy Thai soup that perfectly balances spicy, sour, and savory notes. This classic 'Tom Yum Goong' features succulent shrimp and earthy mushrooms simmered in a fragrant broth infused with lemongrass, galangal, and kaffir lime leaves. A restaurant-quality favorite you can easily recreate at home.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 20 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Aromatics
- b.Trim the root end and tough green tops from the lemongrass stalks. Remove the dry outer layers.
- c.Using the back of a heavy knife, firmly smash the lemongrass stalks along their length to bruise them and release their oils.
- d.Cut the bruised stalks into 2-inch pieces.
- e.Thinly slice the galangal into coins and tear the kaffir lime leaves in half.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Infuse the Broth
- b.In a medium pot, bring the chicken broth to a rolling boil over high heat.
- c.Add the prepared lemongrass, galangal, and kaffir lime leaves to the boiling broth.
- d.Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and let it simmer for 7-10 minutes. The broth should be highly fragrant.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Add Seasonings and Mushrooms
- b.Stir in the Tom Yum paste until it is fully dissolved.
- c.Add the fish sauce, palm sugar, and the optional bruised Thai chilies. Stir to combine.
- d.Add the mushrooms and continue to simmer for 3-4 minutes until they are tender.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Cook the Shrimp
- b.Increase the heat to medium. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the pot.
- c.Cook for only 2-3 minutes, just until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them, as they will become tough.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Finish and Serve
- b.Turn off the heat completely. If making the creamy version, stir in the evaporated milk now.
- c.Stir in the fresh lime juice. It's crucial to do this off the heat to preserve its bright flavor.
- d.Taste the soup and adjust the seasonings if needed. Add more fish sauce for saltiness, lime juice for sourness, or a pinch of sugar to balance.
- e.Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish generously with fresh cilantro, and serve immediately.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the most authentic flavor, do not substitute ginger for galangal; they have very different flavor profiles.
- 2The aromatics (lemongrass, galangal, lime leaves) are traditionally left in the soup for presentation but are not meant to be eaten.
- 3To make a clearer broth (Tom Yum Nam Sai), omit the Tom Yum paste and evaporated milk. Increase the amount of chilies and lime juice to compensate.
- 4Don't boil the soup after adding the lime juice, as it can turn bitter and lose its fresh aroma.
- 5If you can't find fresh aromatics, some Asian markets sell frozen or dried versions which can be used as a substitute.
- 6For a heartier meal, serve the soup with a side of steamed jasmine rice.
Adapt it for your goals.
Tom Yum Gai
Replace the shrimp with 225g of thinly sliced chicken breast. Add the chicken along with the mushrooms and simmer until cooked through.
Tom Yum TalayTom Yum Talay
Use a mix of seafood like shrimp, squid, and mussels for a delicious seafood version.
Vegetarian Tom YumVegetarian Tom Yum
Use vegetable broth and replace the shrimp with firm tofu and a variety of mushrooms like shiitake and oyster. Substitute fish sauce with soy sauce or a vegetarian fish sauce alternative.
Creamy Version (Nam Khon)Creamy Version (Nam Khon)
Follow the recipe and add 3 tbsp of evaporated milk or 1/4 cup of full-fat coconut milk at the end for a richer, creamier soup.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Key ingredients like galangal and lemongrass contain compounds such as galangin and citral, which have been studied for their potent anti-inflammatory effects, helping to reduce inflammation in the body.
Immunity Booster
The soup is rich in vitamins and minerals from its herbal ingredients. The heat from the chilies can also help clear sinuses, making it a great choice when you're feeling under the weather.
Aids Digestion
Lemongrass and galangal have traditionally been used to aid digestion, relieve bloating, and soothe stomach discomfort. The warm broth can be very comforting for the digestive system.
Rich in Antioxidants
The herbs and spices in Tom Yum are packed with antioxidants, which help protect your body's cells from damage caused by free radicals, contributing to overall health.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, Tom Yum Soup is generally considered very healthy. It is a low-calorie, low-fat broth-based soup packed with herbs and spices like galangal, lemongrass, and chili, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. The shrimp provides lean protein.