Tom Yum is a popular Thai soup known for its bold and tangy flavors. It can be made with various proteins, such as shrimp (Tom Yum Goong) or chicken (Tom Yum Gai), or even as a vegetarian option. Here’s a basic recipe for Tom Yum soup with shrimp (Tom Yum Goong):
1. Prepare the Broth:
a. In a pot, bring the chicken or vegetable broth to a boil.
2. Add Aromatics:
a. Add lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, galangal or ginger, Thai bird’s eye chilies, and onion slices to the boiling broth. Simmer for about 5-10 minutes to infuse the flavors.
3. Add Shrimp and Mushrooms:
a. Add the sliced mushrooms and shrimp to the pot. Cook until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
4. Season the Soup:
a. Stir in the minced garlic, fish sauce, lime juice, and sugar. Adjust these seasonings to your taste, balancing the salty, sour, and sweet flavors.
b. If you like it spicier, you can add Thai chili paste (Nam Prik Pao) at this stage for extra heat and flavor.
5. Serve:
a. Remove the soup from heat and discard the lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, galangal or ginger, Thai bird’s eye chilies, and onion slices.
b. Ladle the hot Tom Yum soup into serving bowls.
c. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves for a burst of freshness.
Tom Yum is typically served hot and can be enjoyed as a starter or as a main course with steamed rice. Adjust the spice level and seasonings to your preference, as Tom Yum can vary from mild to very spicy. Enjoy your homemade Tom Yum soup!
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