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Tom Yum Kha Soup with Shrimp

Tom Yum Kha Soup with Shrimp

Tom Yum Kha Soup with Shrimp is a vibrant Thai soup that perfectly blends spicy, creamy, and tangy flavors with fresh herbs. This comforting yet light dish features lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, and creamy coconut milk combined with succulent shrimp to deliver a rich and balanced bowl of warmth and zest. Quick to prepare and customizable for various dietary preferences, it’s an ideal meal to awaken your taste buds and warm your soul.

Ingredients

Scale

Proteins

  • 200g fresh peeled and deveined shrimp

Aromatics & Herbs

  • 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised and cut into pieces
  • 34 slices galangal
  • 4 kaffir lime leaves
  • Handful fresh cilantro or Thai basil, chopped (for garnish)

Vegetables

  • 100g fresh mushrooms (straw mushrooms or button mushrooms), sliced

Liquids & Seasonings

  • 400ml coconut milk
  • 4 cups water or chicken stock
  • 23 Thai bird’s eye chilies, bruised (adjust to taste)
  • 2 tablespoons fish sauce
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Aromatics: First, bruise the lemongrass stalks and slice the galangal to release their essential oils; this step is key to infusing the broth with fragrant layers of flavor.
  2. Simmer the Broth: Bring water or chicken stock to a boil and gently add lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, and bird’s eye chilies. Let it simmer for 10-15 minutes so the flavors meld beautifully.
  3. Add the Shrimp and Mushrooms: Add the fresh shrimp and sliced mushrooms into the simmering broth. Cook until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, usually just a few minutes.
  4. Stir in Coconut Milk and Season: Pour in the coconut milk, then season the soup with fish sauce and a squeeze of fresh lime juice to achieve the signature creamy yet tangy taste.
  5. Finish with Fresh Herbs: Turn off the heat and sprinkle chopped cilantro or Thai basil on top for a fresh, herbaceous aroma that completes the dish.

Notes

  • Use fresh kaffir lime leaves and lemongrass for the best flavor impact.
  • Do not overcook the shrimp; they cook very quickly and should remain tender.
  • Taste frequently during seasoning to balance saltiness, sourness, and spice levels perfectly.
  • If you prefer a clear broth, strain out the herbs and aromatics after simmering.
  • Prepare and measure all ingredients before starting to speed up the cooking process.

Nutrition

Keywords: Tom Yum Kha Soup, Thai Soup, Shrimp Soup, Spicy Soup, Coconut Milk Soup, Lemongrass Soup, Thai Cuisine, Seafood Soup