Dive into the vibrant flavors of Thailand with our Seafood Tom Po Taek recipe! This fiery and tangy seafood stew is a culinary masterpiece, bursting with the aromatic zest of lemongrass, galangal, and kaffir lime leaves, perfectly balanced by the sweetness of tomatoes and the subtle heat of chilies. Imagine succulent prawns, plump mussels, and flaky white fish simmering in a rich, spicy broth – a taste of Thailand brought directly to your kitchen. The depth of flavor is unparalleled, making this dish a true celebration of Thai cuisine.
Tom Po Taek, meaning "boiled soup," is deceptively simple to prepare, yet delivers an explosion of taste that will leave you wanting more. Forget bland seafood boils; this recipe elevates the classic to new heights with its complex and invigorating flavors. Ready to embark on this culinary adventure? Let's dive into the step-by-step guide to create your own perfect bowl of Seafood Tom Po Taek.
Tools Needed
- Stove
- Pot
Ingredients
- Shrimp
- Prawns
- Squid
- Clams
- Basil leaves
- Galangal
- Lemongrass
- Kaffir lime leaves
- Chili
- Seasoning powder
- Fish sauce
- Lime juice
- Water: 500ml or 1L
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Aromatic Broth
- Turn on the stove and add 500ml of water to a pot. Bring the water to a boil.
- Add lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and galangal to the boiling water. (Add galangal later to prevent it from being too strong)
Step 2. Cook the Seafood
- Add chili.
- Add clams and let it boil. (Pre-boil frozen clams before adding).
- Add shrimp and squid.
- Increase heat and cook until shrimp and squid are done.
Step 3. Season and Finish
- Add seasoning powder.
- Add basil leaves and cook briefly.
- Turn off the heat. Season with fish sauce and plenty of lime juice.
Read more: Creamy Thai Coconut Turkey Meatballs: Easy Recipe
Tips
- Drinking hot water is easy on the throat.
- For 500ml of water, use half a soup cube; for 1 liter, use 1 cube.
- Don't overcook the seafood; otherwise, it will be tough.
- This dish is best enjoyed fresh.
Nutrition
- Calories: 250-350
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbs: 15-20g
- Protein: 25-35g
FAQs
1. Can I substitute the seafood?
Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite seafood – shrimp, mussels, squid, scallops, or even firm white fish all work well. Adjust the cooking time as needed based on the seafood's thickness.
2. How spicy is this recipe?
The spiciness is adjustable. Start with fewer chilies and add more to your liking. You can also use milder chilies or adjust the amount of chili paste.
3. What if I don't have all the Thai ingredients?
While the authentic flavors rely on those ingredients, you can substitute some. For example, substitute lemon juice for lime juice, or use ginger in place of some of the galangal. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious!
This Seafood Tom Po Taek recipe is a delightful journey into the heart of Thai cuisine, offering a balance of spicy, sour, and savory flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Impress your friends and family with this vibrant and flavorful stew, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. So, grab your ingredients and get cooking – enjoy the delicious rewards of your culinary adventure!