Tom Yum Soup is one of Thailand’s most famous dishes, known for its bold, aromatic flavors and perfect balance of spicy, sour, salty, and savory. Made with lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, chili, and lime juice, this soup is both refreshing and comforting.
Whether you prefer it with shrimp, chicken, tofu, or mushrooms, this easy homemade version will transport you straight to the streets of Bangkok!
1. What Is Tom Yum Soup?
Tom Yum (ต้มยำ) is a spicy and sour Thai soup with a fragrant, citrusy broth made from lemongrass, lime leaves, galangal, and chilies.
Different Types of Tom Yum:
- Tom Yum Goong (ต้มยำกุ้ง) – The most popular version, made with shrimp.
- Tom Yum Gai (ต้มยำไก่) – Made with chicken.
- Tom Yum Talay (ต้มยำทะเล) – A seafood version with shrimp, squid, and fish.
- Tom Yum Nam Sai (ต้มยำน้ำใส) – A clear broth version without coconut milk.
- Tom Yum Nam Khon (ต้มยำน้ำข้น) – A creamier version with evaporated milk or coconut milk.
✔ Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
✔ Authentic Thai flavors
✔ Easy to customize (seafood, chicken, or vegan)
✔ Perfect balance of spicy, sour, and savory flavors
2. Essential Ingredients for Tom Yum Soup
Aromatic Base:
- 3 stalks lemongrass, sliced
- 4-5 kaffir lime leaves, torn
- 1-inch galangal (or ginger), sliced
- 3-4 Thai chilies, smashed
Broth & Flavoring:
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce (or soy sauce for vegan)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon palm sugar (or brown sugar)
Main Ingredients:
- 10 large shrimp, peeled and deveined (or tofu for vegan)
- 1 cup mushrooms (straw, oyster, or button)
- 1 medium tomato, sliced
- ½ cup coconut milk (optional for a creamy version)
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
3. How to Make Tom Yum Soup
Step 1: Prepare the Aromatics
- Bruise the lemongrass stalks with the back of a knife and cut into 2-inch pieces.
- Tear the kaffir lime leaves to release their aroma.
- Slice the galangal (or ginger) into thin pieces.
✔ Bonus Tip: Smashing the chilies before adding them releases more heat and flavor.
Step 2: Make the Broth
- Bring chicken or vegetable broth to a boil.
- Add lemongrass, lime leaves, galangal, and chilies.
- Simmer for 5-7 minutes to release the flavors.
✔ Bonus Tip: Strain the aromatics before serving if you prefer a smooth broth.
Step 3: Add Main Ingredients
- Add mushrooms and tomatoes, simmer for 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in shrimp (or tofu) and cook until shrimp turns pink.
✔ For a Creamy Version: Stir in ½ cup coconut milk before adding the shrimp.
Step 4: Season the Soup
- Stir in fish sauce, lime juice, and palm sugar.
- Taste and adjust:
- Too spicy? Add more broth or coconut milk.
- Too sour? Add a pinch of sugar.
- Not salty enough? Add more fish sauce.
✔ Bonus Tip: Add lime juice at the end to preserve its fresh, tangy taste.
Step 5: Serve & Garnish
- Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges.
- Serve hot with steamed jasmine rice or enjoy it on its own!
✔ Pair With: Thai iced tea, a light beer, or a crisp white wine.
4. Variations & Substitutions
1. Vegan Tom Yum Soup
- Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Replace shrimp with tofu, tempeh, or extra mushrooms.
- Substitute soy sauce for fish sauce.
2. Tom Yum with Chicken
- Use sliced chicken breast or thighs instead of shrimp.
- Simmer chicken for 10 minutes to fully cook.
3. Creamy Tom Yum (Nam Khon)
- Add ½ cup coconut milk or evaporated milk for a richer broth.
4. Extra Spicy Tom Yum
- Use more Thai chilies or add chili paste (Nam Prik Pao).
5. Tips for the Best Tom Yum Soup
✔ Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemongrass, lime leaves, and galangal bring the best flavor.
✔ Balance the Flavors: Tom Yum should be spicy, sour, salty, and a little sweet. Adjust as needed!
✔ Don’t Overcook Shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly—remove from heat once they turn pink.
✔ Add Lime Juice at the End: This keeps the broth fresh and tangy.
✔ Make It Ahead: The broth gets even more flavorful after sitting for a few hours!
6. What to Serve with Tom Yum Soup
- Steamed Jasmine Rice – Helps balance the spice.
- Thai Spring Rolls – A crispy, refreshing side.
- Pad Thai or Drunken Noodles – Perfect for a Thai feast.
- Mango Sticky Rice – A sweet dessert to cool things down.
7. Storing & Reheating Leftovers
How to Store:
- Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
How to Reheat:
- Reheat over medium heat on the stovetop.
- Avoid boiling to prevent overcooking the shrimp.
✔ Freezing Tip: Freeze the broth without shrimp or lime juice. Add fresh shrimp and lime when reheating.
8. FAQs
1. What does Tom Yum mean?
“Tom” means boiling and “Yum” refers to a spicy and sour flavor profile.
2. Can I make Tom Yum without lemongrass?
Yes, but the flavor won’t be the same. Substitute with extra lime zest and ginger.
3. What’s the difference between Tom Yum and Tom Kha?
- Tom Yum is spicy and sour, with a clear broth.
- Tom Kha is creamier, made with coconut milk and milder spices.
4. Is Tom Yum Soup healthy?
Yes! It’s low in calories, rich in antioxidants, and supports immune health.
5. Can I use dried lemongrass instead of fresh?
Yes, but fresh lemongrass gives the best flavor. Use 1 teaspoon dried lemongrass per stalk.
6. How do I make it less spicy?
Use fewer Thai chilies or remove the seeds before adding them.
7. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Just thaw them in cold water before cooking.
8. What’s the best way to get authentic Thai flavors?
Use fresh ingredients and fish sauce for an authentic taste.
9. Can I use lime juice from a bottle?
Fresh lime juice is best—bottled juice has a different taste.
10. What’s the best chili substitute if I can’t find Thai chilies?
Use red pepper flakes or Serrano peppers for similar heat.
Tom Yum Soup is bold, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make at home. Whether you enjoy it spicy, creamy, or with seafood, this dish brings authentic Thai flavors to your kitchen. Try making it today and enjoy a true taste of Thailand!