Unlock the secrets of the perfect Tom Yum soup! Discover the art of crafting this iconic Thai dish with fresh ingredients and expert techniques. Explore regional variations and more in our culinary journey
Course Lunch, Midweek Meals, Main Course, Dinner
Cuisine Vegetarian, Thai, Takeaway, Asian, 30 minutes plus
500-600gRaw PrawnsPealed and heads removed (and reserved)
2Onionschopped
200gButton MushroomsSliced
200-225gTomatoeschopped
150mlCoconut Milk
3-4Red Chilliesthinly sliced
30gGalangalPeeled and sliced
3Lemon Grass Stalkssliced lengthways
10Lime Leaves
8tbspFish Sauce
6tbspLime Juice
1Chicken Stock Cube
1Large Handful Corianderchopped
Instructions
Preparing the Flavourful Base
Begin by taking a large saucepan and placing it over high heat.
Pour in 2.5 litres of water, and add the onion, tomato, chilli, galangal, lemongrass, prawn heads, and a chicken stock cube.
2 Onions, 200-225 g Tomatoes, 3-4 Red Chillies, 30 g Galangal, 3 Lemon Grass Stalks, 1 Chicken Stock Cube
Give it a good stir and let it come to a vigorous boil
Once it's boiling, reduce the heat to medium and allow it to simmer for approximately 20 minutes, giving time for the liquid to reduce
Straining and Enhancing the Broth
Carefully strain the hot and aromatic broth into a generously-sized heatproof bowl or jug, separating it from the prawn heads which you can now discard.
Return the strained mixture of vegetables and herbs to the saucepan.
Pour the richly flavoured broth back into the saucepan, and add the mushrooms and fragrant lime leaves.
200 g Button Mushrooms, 10 Lime Leaves
Cook this delightful concoction for around 3 minutes or until the mushrooms have softened to perfection.
Bringing it All Together
Start by adding a tablespoon of sugar, which will balance the flavours beautifully.
150 ml Coconut Milk, 6 tbsp Lime Juice
Next, introduce the fish sauce, lime juice, creamy coconut milk, and succulent prawns.
500-600 g Raw Prawns
Allow the soup to return to a gentle boil and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the prawns have reached their ideal level of doneness. Add the fish sauce
8 tbsp Fish Sauce
Once you've achieved the desired consistency and flavour, remove the saucepan from the heat. Don't forget to remove the lemongrass, ensuring your diners enjoy a smooth and enjoyable dining experience
If you crave an extra touch of heat and sweetness, consider stirring in Thai chilli jam (if desired).As a final flourish, scatter some fresh coriander over the top, adding a burst of freshness and colour to your Tom Yum soup, if you're inclined. Serve and savour the delights of this delectable Thai classic