Tom Yum Soup Recipe

If you’ve never tasted Tom Yum Soup before, prepare for an explosion of flavor that’ll instantly transport you to the heart of Thailand. This iconic soup brings together spicy, sour, and salty notes into one punchy yet perfectly balanced bowl, with succulent shrimp and aromatic herbs swirling in a broth you’ll want to sip down to the very last drop. Whether you’re chasing comfort on a rainy night or eager to wow friends with something uniquely vibrant, Tom Yum Soup is the answer — it’s pure joy in a bowl.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Tom Yum Soup is its short list of powerful ingredients, each packing a serious punch in terms of taste and aroma. Every component is essential to the soup’s unforgettable personality, so try not to skip or swap if you can help it.

• Chicken broth: The base of the soup, providing a savory depth and warmth that lets the other flavors shine.
• Shrimp (12 oz): Adds tender, juicy bites and sweet seafood notes that define classic Tom Yum Soup.
• Mushrooms (½ cup): Infuse the soup with a gentle earthiness and soft, pleasant texture.
• Fish sauce (2 tbsp): Offers the essential salty, umami backbone that anchors the soup’s lively flavors.
• Lime juice (3 tbsp): Brings a tangy lift and brightness, making each spoonful extra refreshing.
• Onion (½): Adds a subtle sweetness and roundness to balance the sharper flavors.
• Lemongrass (2 stalks): Fills the broth with citrusy, floral notes that are Tom Yum Soup’s signature.
• Kaffir lime leaves (5): Deliver bold, aromatic zest that sets this dish apart from all others.
• Chili peppers (2–3): Adjust the heat to your liking for that punchy, unmistakable Thai kick.

How to Make Tom Yum Soup

Step 1: Heat the Broth

Set a medium pot over medium-high heat and pour in your chicken broth. As the broth warms, it sets the stage for infusing all those marvelous Thai aromatics. Bring it just to a gentle boil—no need to rush, let the anticipation build!

Step 2: Add Aromatics

Toss in the lemongrass (smashed and cut into pieces), kaffir lime leaves (torn for max aroma), onion slices, and your chosen chili peppers. Let everything simmer together for 5 to 7 minutes. The fragrance at this point is pure magic, with the citrus and herbs infusing every drop of broth.

Step 3: Cook the Mushrooms and Shrimp

When your kitchen smells like you’ve wandered into a Thai street market, add the mushrooms and shrimp. Let the soup bubble gently until the shrimp just turn pink and opaque — usually around 2–3 minutes. Keep an eye on them to keep everything perfectly tender.

Step 4: Season to Perfection

Lower the heat and stir in the fish sauce and fresh lime juice. This is where Tom Yum Soup comes into vibrant balance, the salty and tangy swirling together with all that herbaceous goodness.

Step 5: Taste and Adjust

Grab a spoon and give the soup a taste. Now’s your chance to tweak the seasoning — maybe a sprinkle of salt, another squeeze of lime, or an extra dash of chili if you crave extra heat. This personal touch is what makes homemade Tom Yum Soup so special.

Step 6: Serve Up Hot

Ladle the soup into bowls while still piping hot. If you’re feeling fancy, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro over the top is the perfect finishing flourish. This is Tom Yum Soup at its most inviting!

How to Serve Tom Yum Soup

Garnishes

For that burst of freshness, a handful of chopped fresh cilantro or scallions works wonders. A few extra slices of chili for the brave, and maybe a lime wedge or two, make your Tom Yum Soup look as lively as it tastes. These simple touches bring every flavor to life right at the table.

Side Dishes

Tom Yum Soup is delicious all on its own but pairs beautifully with tender steamed jasmine rice, sticky rice, or freshly made spring rolls. The rice soaks up any leftover broth, while crisp, light sides give a cooling counterpoint to the soup’s fiery heat.

Creative Ways to Present

To impress a crowd, serve Tom Yum Soup in individual bowls with tiny spoons or ladle it into shot glasses for a flavorful party appetizer. Arrange colorful vegetables or extra herbs alongside for guests to sprinkle in themselves, turning the meal into a fun, interactive experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare!), let the Tom Yum Soup cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It’ll keep fresh in the refrigerator for up to 2 days — just be aware the flavors intensify beautifully overnight.

Freezing

Tom Yum Soup can freeze well if you’re mindful: leave out the shrimp and mushrooms before freezing, as they can become rubbery. Freeze only the broth and aromatics, then add fresh shrimp and mushrooms when reheating for the best flavor and texture.

Reheating

Warm leftover Tom Yum Soup gently over medium heat on the stovetop, just until simmering. If you’ve added new shrimp and mushrooms, simmer a few minutes until the shrimp turn pink and the mushrooms soften—then it’s ready to serve, tasting as fresh as the first time.

FAQs

Can I use chicken instead of shrimp?

Absolutely! Sliced chicken breast or thigh works beautifully if you prefer or need a seafood-free version of Tom Yum Soup. Just cook the chicken until it’s fully done and remember to adjust cooking times slightly.

Is it possible to make Tom Yum Soup vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth, use tofu or extra mushrooms instead of shrimp, and swap the fish sauce for soy sauce or a plant-based fish sauce alternative to keep things vegetarian-friendly.

Where do I find kaffir lime leaves and lemongrass?

You’ll spot these in most Asian or international grocery stores, often in the produce section or freezer. If you can’t track them down, dried versions work in a pinch or try a few strips of lime zest and extra lime juice as a flavor boost.

How spicy is Tom Yum Soup supposed to be?

The beauty of Tom Yum Soup is its customizable heat! Some like it tongue-tinglingly fiery, while others prefer a gentler kick. Simply adjust the amount or type of chili peppers based on your own spice level preferences.

Can I prepare the broth in advance?

You sure can! Make the broth with all the aromatics a day ahead, strain and chill it, then heat and add the shrimp and mushrooms right before mealtime. This trick actually lets the flavors deepen and blend even more.

Final Thoughts

There’s something endlessly satisfying about whipping up a batch of Tom Yum Soup; every spoonful is a celebration of flavor, from jazzy citrus to warming heat. If you love bold, cheerful meals that bring people together, this is one to put on repeat. Grab your ingredients, invite over a friend or two, and dive into a bowl of pure homemade comfort — you won’t regret it!

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