Craving a vibrant and flavorful soup that's both comforting and surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than this creamy, delicious vegetarian Tom Kha soup! This Thai classic, typically rich with coconut milk and fragrant herbs, gets a satisfying vegetarian twist without sacrificing any of its signature creamy texture or zesty punch. Forget complicated recipes; this version uses readily available ingredients and simple techniques to deliver an authentic Tom Kha experience that's perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion.
We've carefully crafted this recipe to achieve the perfect balance of sweet, sour, and spicy, ensuring a truly unforgettable taste. From the delicate balance of galangal and lemongrass to the subtle heat of chilies, every element contributes to a symphony of flavors. Ready to embark on a culinary adventure and create this masterpiece in your own kitchen? Let's dive into the step-by-step guide below!
Tools Needed
- Pot
- Cutting board
- Knife
Ingredients
- Firm Tofu
- Baby Bella Mushrooms
- Straw Mushrooms: 1 package
- Full-Fat Coconut Milk: 19 ounces (or 2 x 13.5 ounce cans)
- Sliced Bell Pepper
- Lemongrass
- Thai Chili Peppers
- Makrut Lime Leaves
- Fresh Lime
- Cilantro
- Green Onion
- Galangal
- Water or Vegetable Broth
- Salt
- Fish Sauce (optional)
- Tamari (optional)
- Chili Oil (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Aromatic Broth
- Pound lemongrass and lime leaves to release oils and aroma. Add to a pot with water (or vegetable broth), galangal, cilantro stems, and salt. Boil for 10 minutes.
Step 2. Cook the Tofu and Vegetables
- Add cubed tofu to the boiling broth.
- Add bell pepper, sliced baby bella mushrooms, and straw mushrooms (remove roots).
Step 3. Create the Creamy Soup
- Pour in the entire can of coconut milk.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with fish sauce (non-vegan), tamari (vegan), or salt.
Step 4. Serve and Garnish
- Squeeze lime juice into individual bowls. Ladle soup into the bowls and stir. Alternatively, add chili oil to the bowls with the lime juice.
- Garnish with chopped green onion and cilantro.
Read more: Creamy Thai Coconut Turkey Meatballs: Easy Recipe
Tips
- Adding lime juice directly to the pot might curdle the coconut milk, so it's best added to individual bowls.
- Chili oil adds a spicy kick; it's optional but popular in many restaurants.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 250-350
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbs: 15-20g
- Protein: 10-15g
FAQs
1. Can I use silken tofu instead of firm tofu?
Yes! Silken tofu will create a smoother, creamier soup. Just be gentle when stirring to avoid breaking it up too much.
2. What can I substitute for galangal if I can't find it?
Ginger is a good substitute, although it won't give you the exact same flavor profile. Use about the same amount as you would galangal.
This Creamy Tofu Tom Kha soup is a testament to the fact that vegetarian cooking can be both incredibly flavorful and satisfying. Enjoy this vibrant and healthy soup as a light meal, a hearty starter, or a comforting addition to your weekly repertoire. Now go forth and enjoy the delicious results of your culinary adventure!