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Thai Coconut Chicken Soup (Tom Kha Gai)

Thai Coconut Chicken Soup (Tom Kha Gai)

Discover the Essence of Thai Cuisine with Tom Kha Gai

Immerse yourself in the aromatic world of Thai cooking with the classic Tom Kha Gai, a coconut chicken soup that perfectly balances the richness of coconut milk with the tangy zest of lime and lemongrass. This traditional dish, cherished for its complex flavors and comforting warmth, is a staple in Thai cuisine and a favorite among food enthusiasts worldwide.

Why You'll Love This Soup

  • Flavorful Journey: Each spoonful of Tom Kha Gai offers a burst of flavors, from the spiciness of galangal and chili to the sourness of lime, making it an unforgettable culinary experience.
  • Easy to Make: Despite its complex flavors, this soup is surprisingly simple to prepare, making it accessible to cooks of all skill levels.
  • Comfort in a Bowl: The creamy coconut milk combined with tender chicken and aromatic herbs creates a comforting bowl of soup that's perfect for any season.

Experience the Magic of Thai Cooking

Tom Kha Gai is more than just a soup; it's a celebration of Thai culinary traditions, bringing together a variety of ingredients and flavors that are emblematic of Thailand's rich culinary heritage. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a curious foodie, making Tom Kha Gai at home will transport you straight to the heart of Thailand, offering a taste of its vibrant culture and cuisine.

Cuisine
Difficulty Intermediate
Time
Prep Time: 20 mins Cook Time: 40 mins Total Time: 1 hr
Servings 4
Calories 350
Best Season all year
Dietary Non Vegetarian Option
Description
Discover the essence of Thai cuisine with Tom Kha Gai, a coconut chicken soup that blends the richness of coconut milk with the tangy zest of lime and lemongrass for a comforting yet complex flavor profile.
Ingredients
    For the Soup
  • 400 milliliters coconut milk
  • 500 milliliters chicken stock
  • 2 lemongrass, cut into pieces and pounded
  • 200 grams chicken breast, sliced
  • 200 grams mushrooms, sliced
  • 3 galangal
  • 4 kaffir lime leaves (torn into pieces)
  • 2 tablespoons fish sauce
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon sugar (preferably palm sugar)
  • 1 red chili, sliced (optional, for garnish)
  • a handful fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
  1. Prepare the IngredientsThai Coconut Chicken Soup (Tom Kha Gai)Prepare your ingredients by slicing the chicken, mushrooms, and chili, and pounding the lemongrass.
  2. Simmer the SoupThai Coconut Chicken Soup (Tom Kha Gai)In a large pot, bring the chicken stock to a simmer. Add the lemongrass, galangal, and kaffir lime leaves and simmer for 5 minutes to infuse the flavors.
  3. Add Chicken and MushroomsAdd the chicken and mushrooms to the pot and simmer until the chicken is cooked through, about 10-15 minutes.
  4. Finish with Coconut MilkStir in the coconut milk, fish sauce, lime juice, and sugar. Heat just until hot; do not boil to keep the coconut milk from separating.
  5. ServeServe hot, garnished with sliced red chili and fresh cilantro.
Nutrition Facts

Serving Size 1

Servings 4


Amount Per Serving
Calories 350kcal

Note
Feel free to adjust the level of spiciness by adding more or less chili. You can also substitute chicken with tofu for a vegetarian version of Tom Kha Gai.
Keywords: Thai cuisine, coconut chicken soup, Tom Kha Gai
Annie Elison
Food and Lifestyle Blogger

Hi ! I am Annie Elison! I’m a proud mom of two wonderful children and a devoted food enthusiast from the USA. Cooking has always been my passion, and over the years, I’ve collected a treasure trove of recipes that I’m excited to share with you.