Thai-style coconut soup, also known as Tom Kha Gai, is a popular and flavorful soup that is perfect for warming up on a chilly day. This soup is made with a combination of coconut milk, chicken, and a variety of herbs and spices that give it a unique and delicious flavor. Whether you’re a fan of Thai cuisine or just looking for a new soup recipe to try, this Thai-style coconut soup is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients for Thai-Style Coconut Soup:
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, thinly sliced
- 1 stalk lemongrass, cut into 2-inch pieces and smashed
- 4-5 slices galangal or ginger
- 3-4 kaffir lime leaves, torn into pieces
- 2-3 Thai bird’s eye chilies, smashed
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 2 tomatoes, cut into wedges
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- Juice of 1-2 limes
- Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
- Thai basil leaves, for garnish
- Sliced red chilies, for garnish
How to Make Thai-Style Coconut Soup:
- In a large pot, bring the chicken broth to a simmer over medium heat.
- Add the coconut milk, lemongrass, galangal or ginger, kaffir lime leaves, and Thai bird’s eye chilies to the pot. Simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Add the sliced chicken thighs, onion, mushrooms, and tomatoes to the pot. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Stir in the fish sauce, soy sauce, sugar, and lime juice. Taste and adjust the seasoning, adding more fish sauce, soy sauce, sugar, or lime juice as needed.
- Remove the lemongrass, galangal or ginger, kaffir lime leaves, and Thai bird’s eye chilies from the pot.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, Thai basil leaves, and sliced red chilies.
- Serve the Thai-style coconut soup hot, with steamed rice or crusty bread on the side.
About the Main Ingredients:
- Coconut Milk: Adds richness and a creamy texture to the soup.
- Chicken Thighs: Provide a tender and flavorful protein.
- Lemongrass: Adds a citrusy flavor and aroma.
- Galangal or Ginger: Adds a spicy and aromatic element.
- Kaffir Lime Leaves: Add a unique citrusy flavor.
- Thai Bird’s Eye Chilies: Add heat to the soup.
- Fish Sauce: Adds a salty and savory flavor.
- Thai Basil Leaves: Add a fresh and herbaceous flavor.
This Thai-style coconut soup is a delicious and comforting dish that is sure to impress. Enjoy it as a starter or as a light main course.
