Tom Yum Soup is a vibrant, aromatic Thai dish that captures the essence of Thai cuisine. Known for its spicy and sour flavor profile, this soup combines fresh herbs, tangy lime juice, and a touch of heat to create a dish that’s both comforting and invigorating. It’s a staple in Thai cooking, beloved for its balance of bold flavors.
1. What Is Tom Yum Soup?
Tom Yum Soup is a traditional Thai soup that features a clear, fragrant broth infused with ingredients like lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, and chili peppers. It’s typically served with shrimp or chicken and includes mushrooms and tomatoes for added texture.
Why Is It So Popular?
- Authentic Thai Flavors: A perfect harmony of spicy, sour, savory, and aromatic notes.
- Versatile: Can be made with various proteins or enjoyed as a vegetarian dish.
- Quick and Easy: Simple to prepare yet packed with complex flavors.
Perfect For:
- A light yet flavorful starter
- Chilly days when you need comfort food
- Impressing guests with Thai-inspired cuisine
2. Ingredients for Tom Yum Soup
Core Ingredients:
- Chicken or Shrimp Stock: 4 cups.
- Lemongrass: 2 stalks, cut into 2-inch pieces and bruised.
- Galangal: 2-inch piece, sliced (or ginger as a substitute).
- Kaffir Lime Leaves: 5-6, torn to release flavor.
- Thai Bird’s Eye Chilies: 3-5, sliced (adjust to taste).
- Shrimp or Chicken: 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined, or 1 cup thinly sliced chicken breast.
- Mushrooms: 1 cup, sliced (straw or button mushrooms).
- Cherry Tomatoes: ½ cup, halved.
For Flavoring:
- Fish Sauce: 2-3 tablespoons (or soy sauce for a vegan option).
- Lime Juice: 2-3 tablespoons, freshly squeezed.
- Chili Paste (Nam Prik Pao): 1-2 tablespoons.
- Sugar: 1 teaspoon, to balance flavors.
Optional Additions:
- Coconut milk for a creamy version (Tom Kha).
- Fresh cilantro for garnish.
3. Preparing the Aromatics
1. Trim and Bruise Lemongrass:
- Cut the lemongrass stalks into 2-inch pieces and gently bruise them with the back of a knife to release their oils.
2. Prep the Galangal:
- Slice the galangal into thin rounds. If using ginger, peel and slice.
3. Tear Kaffir Lime Leaves:
- Tear the lime leaves slightly to release their aromatic oils.
4. Making the Tom Yum Broth
1. Simmer the Aromatics:
- In a pot, bring the chicken or shrimp stock to a boil. Add lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, and chilies. Reduce the heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes to infuse the broth.
2. Add Vegetables:
- Stir in the mushrooms and tomatoes. Simmer for another 3-4 minutes.
5. Adding Protein and Seasoning
1. Cook the Protein:
- Add shrimp or chicken to the broth and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, or the chicken is cooked through.
2. Season the Soup:
- Stir in the fish sauce, lime juice, chili paste, and sugar. Taste and adjust seasoning to balance the salty, sour, and spicy flavors.

6. Serving Tom Yum Soup
1. Garnish and Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro. Add a wedge of lime for an extra burst of freshness.
2. Pair With:
- Serve with steamed jasmine rice or enjoy on its own as a flavorful starter.
7. Tips for Perfect Tom Yum Soup
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh lemongrass, galangal, and kaffir lime leaves for authentic flavor.
- Don’t Overcook the Protein: Add shrimp or chicken at the end to prevent them from becoming rubbery.
- Balance the Flavors: Taste frequently and adjust fish sauce, lime juice, or chili paste as needed.
- Customize Spice Level: Add more chilies for extra heat or reduce them for a milder soup.
8. Variations to Try
1. Tom Kha Soup:
- Add coconut milk for a creamy, milder version of Tom Yum.
2. Vegetarian Tom Yum:
- Use vegetable stock and tofu, and replace fish sauce with soy sauce or tamari.
3. Seafood Tom Yum:
- Include squid, scallops, or mussels for a seafood medley.
4. Noodle Tom Yum:
- Add cooked rice noodles for a heartier meal.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before adding them to the soup.
2. What if I can’t find galangal?
Ginger is a suitable substitute, though it has a slightly different flavor.
3. How do I make the soup less spicy?
Reduce the number of chilies and chili paste, or omit them entirely for a milder broth.
4. Can I freeze Tom Yum Soup?
Freeze the broth without protein or vegetables. Add fresh shrimp or chicken when reheating.
5. How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the protein.
6. Can I use ready-made Tom Yum paste?
Yes, it’s a convenient option. Adjust the quantity based on the package instructions.
7. What type of mushrooms work best?
Straw mushrooms are traditional, but button mushrooms or shiitakes are great substitutes.
8. How do I make the soup vegan?
Use vegetable stock, tofu, and soy sauce instead of fish sauce for a plant-based version.
9. Can I use lime zest instead of lime juice?
Lime juice is better for the tangy flavor, but zest can enhance the aroma.
10. How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe serves 4 as a starter or 2-3 as a main dish.