Transport yourself to the vibrant street markets of Thailand with this authentic Lemongrass Soup recipe! Bursting with fresh herbs, aromatic spices, and a delicately balanced broth, this soup is a culinary journey in a bowl. Forget bland, tasteless broths; this recipe uses garden-fresh ingredients to create a deeply satisfying and flavorful experience. Imagine the fragrant steam rising, the tantalizing aroma of lemongrass and galangal filling your kitchen, promising a taste of true Thai cuisine. We'll use simple, readily available ingredients to unlock the secrets of this beloved dish.
This recipe isn’t just about following instructions; it's about understanding the balance of flavors that make Thai cooking so unique. From perfectly simmered chicken to the vibrant burst of fresh herbs, each element plays a crucial role. Ready to create this culinary masterpiece? Let’s dive into the detailed, step-by-step guide that will have you enjoying a bowl of authentic Thai Lemongrass Soup in no time.
Tools Needed
- Pan
- Knife
- Spoon
Ingredients
- Vegetable broth (low sodium)
- Enoki mushrooms
- Rice noodles or thin ramen noodles
- Lemongrass: 2 stalks
- Garlic: 4 cloves
- Dried Serrano chilies
- Cherry tomatoes
- Lime: 1
- Ginger: 2 inch piece
- Cilantro
- Red chili paste: 1/2 teaspoon (or more, to taste)
- Soy sauce
- Coconut oil: a little bit
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Sauté Aromatics and Chili
- Mince 4 cloves of garlic and a 2-inch piece of ginger. Lightly brown the ginger and garlic in a pan with a little coconut oil. Do not overcook.
- Mince serrano peppers and add them to the pan along with about half a teaspoon of red chili paste. Saute for 30 seconds to a minute.
Step 2. Prepare and Infuse the Broth
- Cut two thin strips of lime peel and add them to the vegetable stock in a separate pot. This will infuse the broth with lime flavor. Bring to a boil and let it reduce by half.
- Use a knife to score the lemongrass stalks lengthwise, exposing the tender inner flesh. Discard the tough outer layer and finely dice the tender part.
- Add the minced lemongrass to the simmering stock.
Step 3. Cook Noodles and Mushrooms
- Add the enoki mushrooms and noodles to the stock. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until the noodles are cooked.
Step 4. Serve and Garnish
- Serve the soup in bowls. Garnish with cilantro, fresh tomatoes, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice.
Read more: Creamy Thai Coconut Turkey Meatballs: Easy Recipe
Tips
- Use a spoon to peel ginger; it's easier and less wasteful than using a knife.
- Add more chili paste to individual bowls if you prefer a spicier soup.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 250-350
- Fat: 5-10g
- Carbs: 40-50g
- Protein: 5-8g
FAQs
1. Can I substitute the chicken with other protein?
Absolutely! Shrimp, tofu, or even mushrooms make excellent substitutes. Adjust cooking time as needed.
2. Where can I find galangal?
Many Asian grocery stores carry galangal. If unavailable, you can omit it, but the flavor will be slightly less authentic.
So there you have it – a bowl of sunshine in every spoonful! This authentic Thai Lemongrass Soup recipe is a testament to the power of fresh, simple ingredients. Enjoy the rewarding taste of homemade, healthy, and utterly delicious Thai cuisine.