Tom Kha Gai, or Thai Coconut Soup with Chicken, is a culinary masterpiece that effortlessly blends savory, spicy, and subtly sweet flavors. This fragrant soup, a staple of Thai cuisine, boasts a creamy coconut milk base infused with the zesty bite of lemongrass, galangal, and kaffir lime leaves. The tender chicken pieces, perfectly seasoned, harmonize beautifully with these aromatic elements, creating a deeply satisfying and comforting experience. Its vibrant flavors make it a truly unforgettable dish, perfect for a cozy night in or a sophisticated dinner party.
Beyond its deliciousness, Tom Kha Gai is surprisingly easy to make at home. Forget complicated recipes and lengthy preparation times; this accessible version will guide you through each step, ensuring your own version of this classic Thai soup is both authentic and delicious. Let's dive into the simple, step-by-step process to create your own bowl of aromatic Tom Kha Gai.
Tools Needed
- Pot
- Knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- Galangal: 30 grams
- Shallots: 2 pairs
- Kaffir lime leaves
- Tomatoes: 1 piece
- Lime juice: 5 tablespoons
- Lemon grass: 3 pieces
- Chillies: 5 pieces
- Coriander root: 1 piece
- Turmeric
- Fish sauce: 4 tablespoons
- Sugar: 1 tablespoon
- Coconut milk: 1 cup
- Chicken thighs: 250 grams
- Straw mushrooms: 30 grams
- Water
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Cilantro
- Coriander leaves
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Aromatics and Stock
- Peel and cut shallots, cut tomatoes into four, prepare lime juice, remove kaffir lime leaves from stems, prepare lemon grass, cut chillies, prepare coriander root, prepare turmeric.
- In a pot, add water, galangal skin, shallots skin, kaffir lime leaves skin, lemongrass skin and bring to a boil. After boiling for around five minutes, remove the skins. Add lemongrass, shallots, galangal, chillies, and coriander root. Add 1 cup of water and 1 teaspoon of salt.
Step 2. Cook the Chicken
- Add chicken thighs, 4 tbsp fish sauce, 1 tbsp sugar to the stock and simmer until chicken is cooked.
Step 3. Simmer with Coconut Milk and Vegetables
- Add straw mushrooms, kaffir lime leaves, 1 cup of coconut milk and tomatoes.
- Add 4 more tbsp of fish sauce. Turn off heat and add 5 tbsp of lime juice.
Step 4. Finish and Garnish
- Garnish with cilantro and coriander leaves before serving.
Read more: Creamy Thai Coconut Turkey Meatballs: Easy Recipe
Tips
- Adjust the amount of chillies to your preferred spice level.
- You can use chicken legs instead of thighs, or use both.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I substitute coconut milk?
While full-fat coconut milk is best for creaminess, you can use light coconut milk for a lower-fat option. The flavor will be slightly less rich.
2. What if I don't have galangal?
Ginger can be used as a substitute for galangal, although the flavor will be slightly different. Use about the same amount as you would galangal.
3. Can I make this soup vegetarian/vegan?
Yes! Simply omit the chicken and substitute with firm tofu, mushrooms, or vegetables like zucchini and eggplant. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
This easy Tom Kha Gai recipe allows you to experience the authentic flavors of Thailand from the comfort of your own kitchen. With its vibrant aroma and delicious taste, this soup is sure to become a new family favorite. Enjoy your bowl of warm, comforting, and utterly delicious Tom Kha Gai!