Tom Leng Soup, a beloved Thai dish, is more than just a culinary experience; it's a journey for the senses. The rich, aromatic broth, brimming with tender pork ribs, vibrant vegetables, and a subtle yet captivating spice, will transport you to the bustling street markets of Thailand. This comforting soup is surprisingly easy to make at home, offering a delicious and authentic taste without the need for extensive culinary expertise. Its versatility allows for customization to your spice preference, making it a perfect dish for both seasoned cooks and beginners alike. The combination of savory pork, earthy mushrooms, and fragrant herbs creates a symphony of flavors that will leave you wanting more.
This recipe focuses on achieving that perfect balance of tender pork and a deeply flavorful broth, resulting in a Tom Leng Soup that's both satisfying and incredibly delicious. Ready to embark on this culinary adventure and create your own bowl of authentic Tom Leng Soup? Let's dive into the step-by-step process!
Tools Needed
- Pot
- Bowl
Ingredients
- Pork ribs: 1 kg
- Plain water: 3000 ml
- Pork cube: 1
- Lemongrass: 3 stalks
- Galangal: 5 slices
- Coriander roots
- Kaffir lime leaves: 5
- Shallots: 7
- Chinese garlic: 5 cloves
- Onion: 1
- Pineapple pieces: 1 cup
- Salt: ½ tablespoon
- White vinegar: 5 tablespoons
- Coriander
- Lime: 1
- Chili peppers
- Fish sauce
- Parsley
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Pork Ribs and Broth
- Boil the pork ribs in water for 5 minutes. Wash them in clean water afterwards.
- In a pot, combine 3000ml of water, pork ribs, 1 pork cube, 3 smashed and sectioned lemongrass stalks, 5 smashed galangal slices, smashed coriander roots, 5 kaffir lime leaves, 7 smashed shallots, 5 smashed cloves of Chinese garlic, and 1 onion cut into 4 parts. Add 1 cup of pineapple pieces, ½ tablespoon of salt, and 5 tablespoons of white vinegar.
- Bring to a boil, then skim off any foam.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 2 hours, skimming off any additional foam or fat periodically.
Step 2. Simmer the Soup
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 2 hours, skimming off any additional foam or fat periodically.
Step 3. Prepare the Spicy Garnish
- Chop coriander, slice lime, and pound chili peppers to your desired level of spiciness.
- Mix the pounded chili and lime juice in a bowl. Add fish sauce and parsley to taste.
Step 4. Serve and Garnish
- Ladle the soup into bowls. Add the prepared chili-lime mixture and other garnishes as desired.
Read more: Creamy Thai Coconut Turkey Meatballs: Easy Recipe
Tips
- Pineapple helps tenderize the meat faster.
- Adjust the spiciness and sourness to your preference.
- Season with fish sauce to taste.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use different types of meat in Tom Leng Soup?
Yes! While pork ribs are traditional, you can substitute with chicken, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
2. How can I make the soup spicier?
Add more chilies! Start with a few extra Thai chilies or a dash of chili garlic sauce, tasting as you go to reach your desired level of spiciness.
3. What if I don't have all the ingredients listed?
Don't worry! Tom Leng Soup is adaptable. Feel free to omit or substitute ingredients based on your availability. The key is to balance savory and spicy flavors.
Enjoy your homemade bowl of Spicy Tom Leng Soup! This recipe offers a flavorful and satisfying meal perfect for a chilly evening or a comforting weeknight dinner. Now go forth and impress your friends and family with your newfound Thai cooking skills!