If you love bold, aromatic Thai flavors, the Tom Yum Soup Recipe (2 Ways) is a must-try in your kitchen. This dish is famous for its perfect blend of spicy, sour, savory, and slightly sweet notes, all dancing with fragrant herbs and fresh shrimp. Whether you crave a clear and zesty broth or the soothing creaminess of coconut or evaporated milk, this uncomplicated and satisfying recipe brings the vibrant soul of Thailand right to your table—no passport needed!
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bursting with Flavor: Every spoonful delivers spicy, tangy, and savory goodness, thanks to a medley of unique Thai ingredients.
- Two Authentic Styles: Easily customize between a clear broth and the creamy Tom Yum Goong Nam Khon version to suit your mood.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in well under an hour and simple enough for cooks of all skill levels.
- Restaurant-Quality at Home: Make incredible Tom Yum Soup that rivals your favorite Thai spot, with ingredients from most supermarkets.
- Customizable Heat: Adjust the chili level to suit your spice tolerance, making it family-friendly or fiery-hot!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t be intimidated by the ingredient list—the essentials are easy to find, and each one plays a key role in building the perfect Tom Yum experience. Every item brings something magical to the bowl, balancing heat, zest, and savory depth.
- 4 cups chicken stock: Forms the flavorful base; shrimp stock is even more authentic for that seafood punch.
- 4 Thai chili peppers: Provides the classic signature heat—adjust for spiciness to suit your taste.
- 4 tablespoons fish sauce: Brings a briny, umami element essential for that uniquely Thai depth.
- 3 tablespoons Thai chili paste (nam prik pao): Adds smoky sweetness and layers of rich warmth.
- 1 tablespoon chili oil: Infuses vivid color and an extra spicy kick.
- 3 lemongrass stalks, chopped and smashed: Releases citrusy aromas that define Tom Yum’s bright profile.
- 3 kaffir lime leaves: Delivers a complex citrusy note; fresh or frozen is best, but dried is fine in a pinch.
- 2 garlic cloves, smashed: Adds savory undertones and balances the tang.
- 1 teaspoon fresh chopped galangal: This ginger-like root gives a piney, citrus aroma that’s uniquely Thai.
- 15 ounces straw mushrooms: Absorb the broth’s flavors—substitute with button mushrooms if needed.
- 12 medium shrimp, peeled and deveined: Sweet, succulent shrimp is the hero protein in every spoonful.
- Juice from 1 small lime: Finishes the soup with a refreshing, sour edge.
- Chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish: Brightens and freshens the final bowl.
- Extra fish sauce, chili oil, and chili flakes, for serving: Allows each bowl to be customized to personal taste.
- 1/2 cup evaporated milk or 1/2–1 cup coconut milk (for creamy version): Brings a rich, smooth finish to the creamy Tom Yum Goong Nam Khon.
Variations
Tom Yum is famously flexible! Don’t be afraid to riff on this recipe based on what you have or what you love. Switching up the proteins, adjusting for dietary needs, or even boosting the veggies lets you truly make this dish your own.
- Vegetarian Tom Yum: Swap shrimp and fish sauce for tofu and soy sauce, and use a veggie broth base.
- Tom Yum with Chicken: Use chicken breast or thighs instead of shrimp for a comforting take.
- No Chili Heat: Skip the chili oil and peppers for a milder, family-friendly flavor.
- Mushroom Medley: Try shiitake, oyster, or enoki mushrooms for a different earthy twist.
- Tom Yum Noodle Soup: Add cooked rice noodles for a heartier meal-in-a-bowl experience.
- Extra Creamy: Use full-fat coconut milk for a decadent, luxurious mouthfeel in the creamy version.
How to Make Tom Yum Soup Recipe (2 Ways)
Step 1: Prepare Your Aromatics
Begin by pounding or finely chopping the lemongrass, galangal, garlic, and kaffir lime leaves. Mash to release their essential oils and flavors—this step ensures your broth gets deeply infused with Thailand’s unmistakable zing and perfume.
Step 2: Build the Flavorful Broth
In a large pot over medium-high heat, pour in your chicken stock (or shrimp stock for bolder seafood flavor) and bring it to a gentle simmer. Add the prepared lemongrass, galangal, garlic, and kaffir lime leaves. Let these steep for about 5–10 minutes so they release maximum aroma and taste.
Step 3: Add Chili & Thai Seasonings
Slice or crush the Thai chili peppers and add them, along with the fish sauce, Thai chili paste, and chili oil. Stir well. The chili oil gives that beautiful orange sheen and an extra dose of heat and color. Let the flavors marry for about 3–5 minutes, tasting and adjusting if you prefer more or less spice.
Step 4: Toss in Mushrooms & Shrimp
Add the straw mushrooms (drained, if using canned) and simmer another 2–3 minutes, just until softened. Next, gently add the peeled and deveined shrimp. Cook 2–3 minutes more, until the shrimp turn pink and opaque—avoid overcooking for the best texture.
Step 5: Finish with Lime & Freshness
Turn off the heat. Stir in the lime juice, checking for your ideal balance of sourness, and toss in the chopped cilantro for a breath of freshness. Your classic clear Tom Yum Soup Recipe (2 Ways) is ready to serve!
Step 6: Make It Creamy (Optional Tom Yum Goong Nam Khon)
For the creamy Tom Yum Soup Recipe (2 Ways), lower the heat and stir in evaporated milk or coconut milk before the lime juice step. Gently warm (don’t boil) to meld the creamy richness throughout. Then, proceed with the lime juice and cilantro as above for a luscious finish.
Pro Tips for Making Tom Yum Soup Recipe (2 Ways)
- Smash Your Aromatics: Smashing lemongrass, galangal, and lime leaves brings out their essential oils, making the broth much more aromatic.
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp turn tough if boiled too long—remove from heat as soon as they turn pink.
- Add Lime Juice Off Heat: Add lime juice last, after removing the soup from heat, to preserve its tangy brightness.
- Balance is Key: Adjust sourness, saltiness, and heat to taste with more lime, fish sauce, or chili oil for an authentic flavor profile.
- Strain If Needed: For the cleanest presentation, strain out aromatics before serving, or leave them in rustic-style for maximum aroma.
How to Serve Tom Yum Soup Recipe (2 Ways)
Garnishes
For a traditional and vibrant finish, top your Tom Yum Soup Recipe (2 Ways) with plenty of fresh chopped cilantro, extra chili flakes for spice lovers, and a swirl of chili oil. Some like to add thin slices of red chili or even a sprig of Thai basil for color and aroma.
Side Dishes
Enjoy your soup with a side of steamed jasmine rice, which balances the strong flavors and soaks up the delicious broth. Thai crispy spring rolls or a light, crunchy cucumber salad also make excellent companions, offering textural contrast and mild flavors to complement your Tom Yum soup.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, serve Tom Yum Soup Recipe (2 Ways) in individual bowls with a wedge of lime on the rim, an artful swirl of coconut milk, or a chili-scallion garnish. For a party, set up a DIY soup bar with plenty of toppings so everyone can adjust heat and garnishes to their liking.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Tom Yum Soup Recipe (2 Ways) can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep herb and lime garnishes separate to preserve their freshness and color—add them when reheating for best results.
Freezing
If you want to freeze your Tom Yum, stop before adding shrimp and fresh herbs for the best texture. Cool the broth quickly, pour into freezer-safe containers, and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, bring to a simmer, then add fresh shrimp and herbs just before serving for a just-cooked finish.
Reheating
For best flavor, gently reheat the soup over low heat on the stove—boiling can toughen the shrimp. Add extra lime juice and cilantro after reheating to revive those fresh, zesty flavors that make Tom Yum irresistible.
FAQs
Can I make Tom Yum Soup Recipe (2 Ways) vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply swap shrimp for mushrooms or tofu, use vegetable broth, and replace fish sauce with soy sauce or a vegetarian Thai seasoning. The soup will still be packed with lively, aromatic flavors.
What can I use if I can’t find galangal or kaffir lime leaves?
If you can’t find galangal, fresh ginger makes an acceptable substitute, though the flavor will be a bit different. If kaffir lime leaves are unavailable, use strips of lime zest for a hint of citrus aroma.
Is evaporated milk or coconut milk better for the creamy version?
Both options are authentic! Evaporated milk gives a light creaminess and a slightly more savory profile, while coconut milk makes the soup rich, lush, and ever-so-slightly sweet. Choose whichever suits your taste and dietary needs.
Can I adjust the spice level for kids or spice-sensitive eaters?
Definitely. Simply reduce or omit the Thai chili peppers and chili oil. The soup retains its beautiful balance and aromatic flavor even with little or no heat, so the whole family can enjoy it!
Do I need special equipment or a wok to make Tom Yum Soup Recipe (2 Ways)?
No special equipment is necessary—a regular pot will do just fine. The most important part is using fresh herbs and aromatics for depth and complexity; any basic soup pot can handle the task beautifully.
Final Thoughts
The Tom Yum Soup Recipe (2 Ways) truly lets you celebrate the zesty heart of Thai cuisine with every bowl. Whether you lean towards the bright, clean broth or the comforting creamy version, this recipe offers a world of flavor with very little fuss. Give it a try in your own kitchen, and let your taste buds take an unforgettable trip to Thailand!
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- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Thai
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Tom Yum Soup is a classic Thai soup celebrated for its vibrant, harmonious blend of spicy, sour, savory, and slightly sweet flavors. This recipe allows you to easily make both clear and creamy versions at home using readily available ingredients, delivering restaurant-quality results in under an hour. Customizable in heat and protein, Tom Yum is approachable, bursting with aroma, and deeply comforting—perfect for a taste of Thailand in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 4 cups chicken stock (or shrimp stock for more seafood flavor)
- 3 lemongrass stalks, chopped and smashed
- 3 kaffir lime leaves
- 2 garlic cloves, smashed
- 1 teaspoon fresh chopped galangal
Seasonings & Aromatics
- 4 Thai chili peppers (adjust to taste for heat)
- 4 tablespoons fish sauce
- 3 tablespoons Thai chili paste (nam prik pao)
- 1 tablespoon chili oil
Soup Add-Ins
- 15 ounces straw mushrooms (or button mushrooms, canned or fresh, drained if canned)
- 12 medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
For Creamy Version (Tom Yum Goong Nam Khon)
- 1/2 cup evaporated milk or 1/2-1 cup coconut milk
Finish & Garnish
- Juice from 1 small lime
- Chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Extra fish sauce, chili oil, and chili flakes, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare Your Aromatics: Pound or finely chop the lemongrass, galangal, garlic, and kaffir lime leaves. Mashing them helps release essential oils for maximum aroma and flavor in your broth.
- Build the Flavorful Broth: In a large pot over medium-high heat, add the chicken (or shrimp) stock and bring to a gentle simmer. Add the prepared lemongrass, galangal, garlic, and kaffir lime leaves. Let them steep for 5–10 minutes to deeply infuse the broth.
- Add Chili & Thai Seasonings: Slice or crush the Thai chili peppers and add them, along with fish sauce, Thai chili paste, and chili oil. Stir to combine. Simmer for 3–5 minutes, adjusting seasoning for your preferred spiciness.
- Toss in Mushrooms & Shrimp: Add straw mushrooms and simmer for 2–3 minutes until softened. Then, gently add shrimp and cook for another 2–3 minutes until they just turn pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking for the best shrimp texture.
- Finish with Lime & Freshness: Turn off the heat. Stir in the lime juice to finish with a bright sour note, and add chopped cilantro. Taste and adjust with more lime or fish sauce as needed for balance. Serve for a classic, clear Tom Yum soup.
- Make It Creamy (Optional): For the creamy Tom Yum Goong Nam Khon variation, lower the heat and stir in evaporated milk or coconut milk before adding the lime juice. Warm gently without boiling, then proceed with lime juice and cilantro as above. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Smash Your Aromatics: Crushing lemongrass, galangal, and lime leaves maximizes their flavor and fragrance.
- Avoid Overcooking Shrimp: Remove the soup from heat as soon as shrimp turn pink to keep them tender.
- Lime Juice Timing: Always add the lime juice after removing the pot from heat to preserve its fresh, tangy brightness.
- Customize Balance: Adjust lime, fish sauce, and chili oil to find your perfect blend of sour, salty, and spicy flavors.
- Strain If Desired: For a clean presentation, strain out aromatics before serving, or leave them in for a rustic look.
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days; add fresh herbs and lime after reheating.
- Freezing: Freeze the broth (without shrimp and herbs) for up to 2 months; add fresh shrimp and herbs after reheating.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 2 cups)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 1150mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 110mg