Tom Kha Gai Soup is a delicious and fragrant Thai dish that combines fresh ingredients with rich flavors. This creamy soup features tender chicken, aromatic herbs, and a hint of spice, making it a perfect choice for a comforting meal. With its unique blend of coconut milk, lime juice, and fish sauce, Tom Kha Gai will transport your taste buds to Thailand. Follow this simple recipe to create your own bowl of this comforting soup at home.
Ingredients:
1 tablespoon coconut oil, 1 tablespoon Thai red chili paste, 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes, 5 garlic cloves, minced, 1 pound chicken breasts, cut into thin strips, 4 cups chicken stock, 3 bay leaves, 1 3-inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and cut into 4 chunks, 3 stalks lemongrass, 1 teaspoon dried basil, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper, 13 ounces coconut milk, canned, 2 tablespoons Thai fish sauce, 2 tablespoons light brown sugar, 1/4 cup lime juice (or juice of 2 limes), 8 oz mushrooms, sliced, 1 red bell pepper, chopped, Sriracha hot chili sauce to taste, kosher salt to taste, ground black pepper to taste
Directions:
- Heat 1 tablespoon coconut oil over medium high heat. Add red chili paste, red pepper flakes, and garlic; sauté for 30 seconds. Add chicken and sauté until opaque but not cooked through.
- Add chicken stock, bay leaves, ginger, lemongrass, basil, salt, and pepper, and bring to a boil.
- Lower heat to medium-low, cover, and gently simmer for 10 minutes.
- Stir in coconut milk, fish sauce, sugar, lime juice, mushrooms, and red bell pepper. Simmer for a couple of minutes until bell peppers are crisp-tender.
- When ready to serve, ladle out lemongrass stalks, bay leaves, and ginger chunks.
- Taste and add additional salt, pepper, and Sriracha to taste.
- Garnish individual bowls with fresh cilantro, green onions, fresh basil, and fresh lime juice.
How to serve Tom Kha Gai Soup
Serve Tom Kha Gai Soup in warm bowls. To enhance the experience, offer extra toppings like fresh herbs and lime wedges on the side. This adds bright flavors to each serving. Enjoy this soup as a starter or main dish with steamed rice or rice noodles. Its rich, savory taste makes it an excellent comfort food. Try making this Thai classic today for a delightful meal that brings warmth and happiness.