Tom Yum Soup is a bold, flavorful Thai soup known for its perfect balance of spicy, sour, salty, and savory tastes. It is made with fresh ingredients like lemongrass, lime juice, and Thai chili paste, creating a light yet deeply aromatic broth.
Shrimp and mushrooms add texture and richness to the soup, while fish sauce enhances its umami depth. This soup is simple to make and cooks in just 25 minutes. Whether you enjoy it as a starter or a main dish, Tom Yum Soup is a refreshing and comforting meal that brings the flavors of Thailand to your kitchen.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe works because it uses fresh ingredients that create a vibrant and aromatic broth. Lemongrass and lime juice add citrusy brightness, while Thai chili paste brings a spicy kick. The shrimp cook quickly, keeping them tender and juicy. The combination of fish sauce and sugar balances the flavors, ensuring every spoonful is full of depth and richness.
Another reason this recipe is great is its versatility. You can easily make it vegetarian by using tofu instead of shrimp and soy sauce instead of fish sauce. You can also add noodles for a heartier meal. The soup is light yet filling, making it perfect for any season. Whether you’re craving something warming or refreshing, Tom Yum Soup always delivers a satisfying experience.
Ingredients
Lemongrass (Fresh or Sliced) – Adds a citrusy, fresh aroma to the soup. Substitute: Lemon zest or lime leaves.
Shrimp (Peeled and Deveined) – The main protein, tender and flavorful. Substitute: Chicken, tofu, or mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
Lime Juice (Freshly Squeezed) – Gives the soup its tangy and refreshing taste. Substitute: Rice vinegar for a similar acidity.
Tom Yum Paste or Thai Chili Paste – Adds spice, umami, and depth to the broth. Substitute: Red curry paste or chili garlic sauce.
Fish Sauce – Enhances the savory, salty flavor. Substitute: Soy sauce for a vegetarian option.
Tips
- Use fresh lemongrass, lime leaves, and galangal for authentic flavor.
- Do not overcook the shrimp to keep them tender.
- Add coconut milk for a creamy version (Tom Kha).
- Adjust chili levels based on your spice preference.
- Serve hot and garnish with fresh cilantro for extra flavor.
How to Serve
Tom Yum Soup is best served hot and fresh, with its bold, tangy, and spicy flavors standing out. This Thai classic is known for its balance of sour, salty, spicy, and savory tastes, making it a warming and refreshing dish. It pairs well with jasmine rice, allowing you to soak up the delicious broth.
- With Steamed Rice: Serve alongside jasmine or sticky rice to balance the heat.
- With Noodles: Add rice noodles for a heartier meal.
- With Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh cilantro, green onions, or Thai basil for extra aroma.
Similar Recipes
Tom Yum Soup
Ingredients
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 stalks lemongrass cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1- inch piece galangal or ginger sliced
- 3 kaffir lime leaves torn
- 1 cup mushrooms sliced
- 10-12 shrimp peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon tom yum paste or Thai chili paste
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 Thai chilies sliced, optional
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Broth: In a pot, bring broth to a boil. Add lemongrass, galangal, and lime leaves. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Add Vegetables & Paste: Stir in mushrooms, tom yum paste, and Thai chilies (if using). Cook for another 3-4 minutes.
- Cook the Shrimp: Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes until pink and opaque.
- Season the Soup: Stir in lime juice, fish sauce, and sugar. Taste and adjust as needed.
- Serve Hot: Remove lemongrass and lime leaves, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve immediately.
Nutrition
Notes
• Do not overcook the shrimp to keep them tender.
• Add coconut milk for a creamy version (Tom Kha).
• Adjust chili levels based on your spice preference.
• Serve hot and garnish with fresh cilantro for extra flavor.
It is surprisingly easy to make.