Hello, Lykkers! Tom Yum is a classic Thai soup known for its bold flavors and aromatic ingredients.

This hot and sour soup typically features fresh herbs, spices, and seafood, making it a beloved dish both in Thailand and around the world. Here’s how to prepare this delicious and fragrant soup.

Ingredients

For the Broth:

• 4 cups water or chicken broth

• 3-4 stalks lemongrass (cut into 2-inch pieces and smashed)

• 3-4 kaffir lime leaves (torn into pieces)

• 1-2 Thai bird's eye chilies (smashed, adjust for spice preference)

• 3-4 slices galangal (or ginger if unavailable)

• 2-3 tablespoons fish sauce (adjust to taste)

• 1 tablespoon lime juice (freshly squeezed)

• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance flavors)

For the Soup:

• 200-300 grams (7-10 oz) shrimp, prawns, or mixed seafood

• 200 grams (7 oz) mushrooms (straw mushrooms or button mushrooms work well)

• 1 small tomato (quartered)

• 1 small onion (sliced)

• Fresh cilantro (for garnish)

• Lime wedges (for serving)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Broth

1. Boil Water: In a pot, bring 4 cups of water or chicken broth to a boil.

2. Add Aromatics: Add the lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, bird's eye chilies, and galangal to the boiling broth.

3. Simmer: Let it simmer for about 5-10 minutes to infuse the flavors.

Step 2: Add Ingredients

1. Add Seafood and Vegetables: Add the shrimp (or mixed seafood), mushrooms, tomato, and onion to the pot.

2. Cook: Allow the soup to cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until the seafood is cooked through and the mushrooms are tender.

Step 3: Season the Soup

1. Season: Stir in the fish sauce, lime juice, and sugar (if using). Adjust the seasoning to your taste—add more fish sauce for saltiness or lime juice for a tangy kick.

Step 4: Serve

1. Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro.

2. Add Lime Wedges: Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor.

Tips

Adjust Spice Level: The number of chilies can be adjusted based on your heat preference. You can also remove the seeds for a milder soup.

Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth and substitute tofu for the seafood.

Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh herbs and ingredients for the best flavor.

Conclusion

Tom Yum soup is a delightful combination of spicy, sour, and savory flavors that excite the palate. This traditional Thai dish is not only comforting but also easy to prepare at home. Enjoy a bowl of Tom Yum as a starter or a light meal, and savor the vibrant tastes of Thailand, Lykkers!