Tom Yum Soup Recipe

Chicken broth: The base of the soup, providing a rich and savory flavor.

Lemongrass: Adds a citrusy and aromatic note to the soup.

Galangal: A root similar to ginger, but with a more peppery and citrusy flavor.

Kaffir lime leaves: Imparts a unique and fragrant citrus aroma.

Shrimp: Provides a succulent and sweet seafood element.

Mushrooms: Adds an earthy and umami flavor to the soup.

Fish sauce: Contributes a salty and savory depth to the soup.

Lime juice: Adds a bright and tangy acidity.

Sugar: Balances the flavors with a hint of sweetness.

Thai chili paste: Brings the heat and a rich, spicy flavor.

Cilantro: Used as a garnish to add freshness and a burst of color.

When preparing lemongrass, make sure to bruise it with the back of a knife before cutting it into pieces. This helps release its essential oils and enhances the flavor of the broth.

• chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: For a vegetarian option, vegetable broth provides a similar savory base.

• lemongrass - Substitute with lemon zest: Lemon zest can mimic the citrusy flavor of lemongrass if it's unavailable.

• galangal - Substitute with ginger: Ginger has a similar spicy and aromatic profile, though it's slightly less pungent.

• kaffir lime leaves - Substitute with lime zest: Lime zest can provide a similar citrusy aroma and flavor.

• shrimp - Substitute with tofu: For a vegetarian or vegan option, tofu can provide a similar texture and protein content.

• mushrooms - Substitute with zucchini: Zucchini can add a similar texture and absorb the soup's flavors well.

• fish sauce - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can provide a similar umami flavor, making it suitable for vegetarians.

• lime juice - Substitute with lemon juice: Lemon juice can provide a similar tangy acidity.

• sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can add a similar sweetness with a slightly different flavor profile.

• thai chili paste - Substitute with sriracha: Sriracha can provide a similar level of heat and flavor.

• cilantro - Substitute with parsley: Parsley can provide a fresh, herbaceous note, though it lacks the citrusy flavor of cilantro.

• Allow the Tom Yum Soup to cool to room temperature before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can dilute the flavors.
• Transfer the soup into airtight containers. For best results, use containers that are specifically designed for storing liquids to avoid any spills.
• If you plan to consume the soup within a few days, store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
• For longer storage, consider freezing the soup. Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Leave some space at the top of the container or bag to allow for expansion as the soup freezes.
• Label the containers with the date of preparation. This will help you keep track of how long the soup has been stored.
• When ready to reheat, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight if frozen. This gradual thawing helps maintain the texture and flavor of the shrimp and mushrooms.
• Reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat until it reaches a simmer. Avoid boiling, as this can overcook the shrimp and make them tough.
• If the soup appears too thick after reheating, you can add a splash of chicken broth or water to reach the desired consistency.
• Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You may need to add a bit more fish sauce, lime juice, or thai chili paste to refresh the flavors.
• Garnish with fresh cilantro just before serving to add a burst of freshness and color.

• Place the leftover Tom Yum soup in a pot on the stove. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches a gentle simmer. This ensures even heating and helps maintain the integrity of the shrimp and mushrooms.
• If you prefer using a microwave, transfer the soup to a microwave-safe bowl. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or plate to prevent splatters. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating. Check the temperature and heat for an additional minute if necessary.
• For a quick and even reheating, use a double boiler. Place the soup in a heatproof bowl and set it over a pot of simmering water. Stir occasionally until the soup is heated through. This method helps to gently reheat without overcooking the delicate shrimp.
• If you have a slow cooker, pour the leftover Tom Yum soup into the crock. Set it on low heat and allow it to warm up for about 1-2 hours. This method is perfect for maintaining the soup's flavors and texture while you go about your day.
• For an extra burst of freshness, reheat the soup on the stove and add a squeeze of fresh lime juice and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro just before serving. This will revive the bright, zesty flavors that make Tom Yum soup so delightful.

• Pot: Used to bring the chicken broth to a boil and simmer the ingredients.

• Knife: Essential for cutting the lemongrass into 1-inch pieces and chopping the cilantro.

• Cutting board: Provides a surface to cut the lemongrass and chop the cilantro.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure the chicken broth and mushrooms accurately.

• Measuring spoons: Necessary for measuring the fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, and Thai chili paste.

• Stirring spoon: Used to stir the soup and ensure all ingredients are well combined.

• Ladle: Helps in serving the hot soup into bowls.

• Serving bowls: Used to serve the finished Tom Yum Soup.

Prep ingredients ahead: Chop lemongrass, slice galangal, and tear kaffir lime leaves in advance.

Use pre-cleaned shrimp: Buy peeled and deveined shrimp to save time.

Ready-made broth: Use store-bought chicken broth instead of making it from scratch.

Quick mushroom prep: Purchase pre-sliced mushrooms.

Measure sauces early: Pre-measure fish sauce, lime juice, and thai chili paste.

Garnish last: Chop cilantro while the soup simmers.