Tom Yum Soup
There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of soup, especially when it’s as vibrant and flavorful as Tom Yum Soup. This Thai classic is a delightful balance of spicy, sour, and savory flavors that can instantly transport you to a bustling street market in Thailand. With its fresh herbs, succulent shrimp, and a fragrant broth, this dish is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make at home. Using 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth as a base, this Tom Yum Soup recipe is a must-try for those seeking a taste of authentic Thai cuisine.
Why It’s My Go-To
Tom Yum Soup has a special place in my heart (and my kitchen). It’s a dish that embodies warmth and comfort while still introducing a zesty freshness that can brighten any day. I love how versatile it is—you can easily adjust the spice level or throw in whatever veggies you have on hand. Plus, it’s a quick dish that can be whipped up in less than 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a pick-me-up.
The Essentials
To create the perfect bowl of Tom Yum Soup, here’s what you’ll need:
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth: This serves as the flavorful base for your soup.
- 4 stalks lemongrass: Use the tender inner part, sliced, for a bright, citrusy flavor.
- 1 inch piece of fresh ginger: Sliced for a warm, aromatic touch.
- 4 cloves garlic: Minced to add depth to the soup.
- 3 fresh Thai chilies or 1 jalapeño: Sliced for that essential heat.
- 1 cup mushrooms: Oyster or button mushrooms work well for texture.
- 1 medium tomato: Cut into wedges to add a hint of sweetness.
- 1 pound medium-sized shrimp: Peeled and deveined for protein.
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce: Adds umami and saltiness.
- 2 tablespoons lime juice: From about 1-2 limes for a refreshing tang.
- 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce: For additional flavor depth.
- 1 teaspoon sugar: To balance the flavors.
- Fresh cilantro leaves: For garnish.
- Lime wedges: For serving, optional.
Before You Start: Equipment
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your kitchen essentials:
- Large pot: For simmering the soup.
- Knife: To slice your ingredients.
- Cutting board: For safe and efficient chopping.
- Measuring spoons: To ensure precise ingredient amounts.
- Serving bowls: For enjoying your delicious creation.
Make Tom Yum Soup: A Simple Method
Creating Tom Yum Soup is straightforward and rewarding. Follow these steps for a delicious outcome:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by prepping all your ingredients. Slice the lemongrass, ginger, garlic, and chilies. Cut the tomato into wedges and slice the mushrooms.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In a large pot over medium heat, add a splash of oil. Once hot, add the minced garlic, ginger, and sliced lemongrass. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
Step 3: Add Broth and Simmer
Pour in the 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for about 5 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Step 4: Incorporate Vegetables
Add the sliced mushrooms and tomato wedges to the pot. Allow them to cook for an additional 5 minutes until the mushrooms soften.
Step 5: Add Shrimp
Carefully add the 1 pound of medium-sized shrimp to the pot. Cook for about 3-4 minutes or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
Step 6: Season the Soup
Stir in the 2 tablespoons fish sauce, 2 tablespoons lime juice, 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce, and 1 teaspoon sugar. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into serving bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves. Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of citrus.
No-Store Runs Needed
What I love about this Tom Yum Soup recipe is that it often utilizes ingredients you may already have on hand. If you find yourself lacking some items, consider these alternatives:
- Broth: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken for a vegetarian version.
- Shrimp: Substitute with tofu or chickpeas for a plant-based protein option.
- Mushrooms: Any mushrooms you have, like shiitake or cremini, can work.
- Chilies: Red pepper flakes can stand in for chilies if you need a milder option.
Common Errors (and Fixes)
Even the best cooks can make mistakes. Here are some common errors when making Tom Yum Soup and how to fix them:
- Too Spicy: If your soup turns out to be too spicy, add a bit more broth or a splash of coconut milk to mellow the heat.
- Flavors are Flat: Ensure you’re using fresh ingredients. If the flavors are lacking, adjust with more lime juice or fish sauce to brighten it up.
- Overcooked Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly, so keep an eye on them. If they’re rubbery, you may have cooked them too long.
- Not Enough Broth: If you find the soup too thick, simply add more broth or water to achieve your desired consistency.
Leftovers & Meal Prep
Tom Yum Soup is perfect for leftovers and meal prep. Here’s what you should know:
Store any leftover soup in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth if it thickens up. If you plan to meal prep, consider cooking the broth and vegetables separately from the shrimp, adding them just before serving to maintain their texture and flavor.
- Freeze for Later: You can freeze the soup without the shrimp for up to 2 months. Just reheat and add the shrimp fresh when ready to serve.
- Customize Portions: Make individual servings in mason jars for easy grab-and-go lunches.
Top Questions & Answers
Can I make Tom Yum Soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth and skip the shrimp. You can add tofu and more vegetables for a hearty vegetarian version.
How spicy is Tom Yum Soup?
The spice level can vary based on the type and amount of chilies used. If you prefer a milder soup, reduce the number of chilies or remove the seeds before slicing.
What can I serve with Tom Yum Soup?
Tom Yum Soup is fantastic on its own, but you can serve it with steamed jasmine rice or a side of fresh spring rolls for a complete meal.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
While fresh herbs provide the best flavor, you can use dried herbs in a pinch. Use about one-third of the amount, but keep in mind that the taste may not be as vibrant.
Next Steps
Now that you’ve mastered this incredible Tom Yum Soup recipe, it’s time to get cooking! Gather your ingredients, invite a friend or family member to join in the fun, and enjoy the delightful aromas filling your kitchen. Experiment with different vegetables, and share your own variations of this classic dish.
There’s no doubt that Tom Yum Soup will be a recipe you return to time and again. Whether you’re seeking comfort on a chilly evening or a quick, flavorful dish that impresses, this soup has you covered. Happy cooking, and enjoy your culinary adventure!
Tom Yum Soup
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by prepping all your ingredients. Slice the lemongrass, ginger, garlic, and chilies. Cut the tomato into wedges and slice the mushrooms.
- In a large pot over medium heat, add a splash of oil. Once hot, add the minced garlic, ginger, and sliced lemongrass. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for about 5 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Add the sliced mushrooms and tomato wedges to the pot. Allow them to cook for an additional 5 minutes until the mushrooms soften.
- Carefully add the medium-sized shrimp to the pot. Cook for about 3-4 minutes or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
- Stir in the fish sauce, lime juice, low-sodium soy sauce, and sugar. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Ladle the soup into serving bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves. Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of citrus.
Notes
- Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze the soup without shrimp for up to 2 months; reheat and add shrimp fresh before serving.
- Adjust spice level by varying the amount of chilies used.
