10-Minutes Tom Yum Soup Recipe- A Satisfying And Nourishing Recipe

by Julia
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September 20, 2023

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Dive into the bold and vibrant world of Tom Yum Soup Recipe, Thailand’s iconic dish known for its intoxicating mix of sour and spicy flavors. This classic soup is a symphony of lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, and chili, harmonizing with the succulence of shrimp or chicken. With a broth enriched by a splash of fish sauce and lime juice, every spoonful promises an explosion of flavors, making it a must-try for adventurous palates seeking an authentic Thai culinary experience.

Dive into a bowl of vibrant flavors. Tom Yum Soup beckons from the heart of Thailand. A dance of tangy, spicy, and savory. Each sip transports you to bustling Bangkok streets. Fresh lemongrass. Fiery chilies. Plump shrimp. Together, they create magic.

A symphony for the senses, it resonates deeply. Locals cherish it; travelers yearn for another taste.

Now, you don’t need a passport. Unlock this culinary gem in your kitchen. Let the journey begin. Welcome to the authentic Thai experience.

What Is Tom Yum Soup?

Tom Yum Soup is a classic Thai dish known for its vibrant and aromatic flavors. Originating from Thailand, it’s a hot and sour soup brimming with ingredients like lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, galangal, and chilies.

Often featuring shrimp (Tom Yum Goong) or other proteins, it perfectly balances tangy, spicy, and savory.

Garnished with fresh cilantro and lime juice, this soup offers a tantalizing taste that embodies the essence of Thai cuisine.

Can You Vary The Recipe With Other Ingredients?

Keto Replace traditional sugars with keto-approved sweeteners like erythritol. Use high-fat ingredients like coconut milk for a creamier version.
Paleo Avoid additives like MSG found in some commercial fish sauces. Use coconut aminos in place of soy-based sauces.
Gluten-Free Ensure your fish sauce is gluten-free, or substitute with tamari sauce.
Whole30 Skip added sugars and check fish sauce ingredients for compliance. Opt for homemade broth.
Vegetarian Omit the chicken or beef, adding mushrooms. Ensure the fish sauce is vegetarian or replace it with soy sauce.
Vegan Follow the vegetarian modifications and use a vegan-friendly sauce like tamari and plant-based proteins.

Recipe Directions

Combine broth, lemon zest, juice, chile, spring onion, and fish sauce in a saucepan. Bring to simmer on medium-high.
Lower heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
Add chicken; cook for 1 minute till done.
Remove from heat, stir in cilantro.
Rest for 2 minutes, then serve.

Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings

Variations

Tom Yum Nam Khon: A creamier version made by adding coconut milk.
Vegetable Tom Yum: Loaded with a variety of veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, and baby corn.
Tom Yum Talay: Seafood blend featuring shrimp, squid, and mussels.

Add-Ons

Tofu: A protein boost, especially suitable for vegetarians.
Mushrooms: Straw or oyster mushrooms offer earthy flavors.
Baby Corn: Adds a sweet crunch to the mix.

Toppings

Lime Wedges: For an extra tangy kick.
Thai Chili Paste (Nam Prik Pao): Enhances depth and spice

Can I Make Tom Yum Soup In A Slow Cooker Or Instant Pot?

Slow Cooker

Making Tom Yum Soup in a slow cooker allows flavors to meld beautifully. Start by adding all ingredients except proteins and delicate herbs.
Cook on low for 4-5 hours. Add proteins an hour before serving to ensure they remain tender. Just before serving, stir in fresh herbs and adjust seasoning.

Instant Pot

The pressure-cooking function accelerates the cooking process. Begin by sautéing the base ingredients briefly using the “Sauté” function.
Add the broth and main ingredients, then pressure cook on high for about 10 minutes. Quick-release, add proteins, and cook on “Sauté” until they’re done. Finish with herbs and seasoning adjustments.

Can I Use Store Bought Broth, Or Should I Make My Own?

Store-Bought Broth

Convenience: Ideal for those short on time or seeking an easy option.
Consistency: Offers a consistent flavor each time you make the soup.
Variety: Available in low-sodium, organic, and other variations to suit dietary needs.

Homemade Broth

Flavor Control: Allows customization of flavors, ensuring a rich, full-bodied base.
No Additives: Free from preservatives, MSG, or excess salt.

Economical: Made from leftover bones and vegetable scraps, it’s budget-friendly.

How To Serve?

Temperature: Serve hot, just off the simmer, to retain its fresh and vibrant flavors.
Garnish: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro and a slice of lemon or lime can elevate the dish.
Accompaniments: Offer sides like steamed rice or rice noodles for those who prefer a more filling meal.
Serve Individually: Use deep bowls to keep the soup hot for a longer period and to allow for easy mixing of ingredients with each spoonful.
Taste Test: Before serving, adjust the seasoning, particularly the balance of spicy, sour, and salty flavors.

Perfect Side Dishes

Steamed Jasmine Rice: Its floral aroma and soft texture match the soup’s complexity well.
Rice Noodles: Offer a gluten-free and satisfying carb option to complement the spicy, sour broth.
Thai Spring Rolls: Their crispy texture and flavorful filling balance the soup’s liquid nature.
Stir-Fried Vegetables: Opt for lightly seasoned veggies like bok choy or bell peppers to not overpower the soup.
Grilled Seafood: Shrimp or squid can continue the sea-inspired theme of a shrimp-based Tom Yum.

Storage And Make Ahead

Refrigeration: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: Tom Yum Soup can be frozen for longer storage. Pour it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion, and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator or use the defrost setting on the microwave for quicker thawing.
Reheating: Reheat the soup gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Make Ahead: Prepare the soup without adding delicate ingredients like herbs or lime juice. Store it in the refrigerator or freezer and add these ingredients fresh before serving for the best flavor.

What Can We Do With Leftovers?

Wrap Revival: Roll them in tortillas for flavorful wraps.
Stir-Fry Remix: Turn them into a quick and tasty stir-fry.
Bowl of Goodness: Create hearty grain bowls with a variety of toppings.
Soup Reinvention: Blend into soups or stews for added depth.
Pizza Potential: Top pizzas with leftover meats and veggies.
Frittata Fun: Incorporate into a frittata for a savory breakfast.
Salad Upgrade: Elevate salads by adding leftover proteins.

Tips

Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and galangal for authentic flavor.
Balance Flavors: Achieve the perfect balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy by adjusting ingredients like lime juice, fish sauce, and chili paste.
Simmering Time: Simmer the broth gently to allow flavors to meld but avoid overcooking shrimp or other seafood.
Herbs at the End: Add fresh herbs like cilantro and Thai basil at the end of cooking for maximum flavor and freshness.
Garnish: Serve with a garnish of sliced chilies, lime wedges, and extra herbs for added aroma and presentation.