Tom Yum Soup, a beloved Thai classic, is known for its vibrant, tangy broth filled with aromatic herbs, spices, and tender shrimp. This refreshing and healthy soup can be made in two versions: the classic clear Tom Yum Goong or the creamy Tom Yum Goong Nam Khon, both packed with flavor. With only 156 calories per serving, this soup is perfect for those looking for a light yet satisfying dish.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Broth:

• 300g / 10oz whole prawns/shrimp with heads and shells on

• 3 cups (750 ml) water

• 1/2 cup (125 ml) chicken stock (low sodium)

• 2 stalks of lemongrass, peeled

• 1.5 cm piece of galangal, cut into 4 slices

• 5 kaffir lime leaves, torn roughly

• 2 Thai or birdseye chillies

• 3 garlic cloves

Soup Add-ins:

• 120g / 4oz oyster mushrooms

• 1 roma tomato, cut into wedges

• 1/2 white onion, cut into wedges

• 1 tsp sugar

• 3 tbsp fish sauce

• 3 tbsp lime juice

• Fresh coriander/cilantro (for garnish)

For Creamy Version:

• 1 1/2 tbsp Thai roasted chili paste (Nam Prik Pa)

• 1/3 cup (75 ml) evaporated milk

Directions

1. Prepare the Broth: Peel the prawns and place the heads and shells in a pot. Use a mallet to bash the garlic, chilli, and lemongrass, then add them to the pot. Crush the kaffir lime leaves and add them as well. Add galangal, stock, and water to the pot. Bring to a boil, cover, reduce heat, and simmer for 10 minutes.

2. Strain the Broth: Strain the broth, discard the shells and herbs, and return the liquid to the pot over low heat.

3. Add Vegetables: Add onions and mushrooms to the broth and simmer for 3 minutes. Add tomatoes and cook for 1 more minute.

4. Cook the Prawns: Add the prawns to the pot and cook for about 2 minutes or until the prawns are just cooked.

5. Season the Soup: Stir in sugar and fish sauce, then simmer for 1 minute. Add lime juice, then taste and adjust the seasoning (sugar, fish sauce, or lime) as desired.

6. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh coriander and chillies.

For Creamy Version:

• Stir in Thai roasted chili paste and evaporated milk when adding sugar. Continue with the recipe.

Nutrients

• Calories: 156 kcal per serving

• Protein: 21g

• Carbohydrates: 15g

• Fat: 2g

• Saturated Fat: 1g

• Sodium: 2821mg

• Potassium: 593mg

• Fiber: 2g

• Sugar: 7g

• Vitamin A: 287 IU

• Vitamin C: 16mg

• Calcium: 138mg

• Iron: 3mg

The Broth: Aromatic and Bold

The foundation of any great Tom Yum Soup lies in its broth, which is filled with bold and aromatic ingredients. The process starts with the prawns (or shrimp), which are left with their heads and shells intact. These shells are simmered with garlic, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, galangal, and Thai chilies, which infuse the broth with rich, vibrant flavors. The prawn heads and shells create a flavorful, umami-rich base for the soup, while the garlic and chillies add a pungent kick.

Galangal, a type of ginger, adds a unique, slightly peppery and citrusy note to the soup, while lemongrass contributes a light, refreshing citrus flavor that complements the other aromatic ingredients. Kaffir lime leaves bring a fresh, tangy fragrance that is a hallmark of many Thai dishes, adding depth to the broth.

Once the broth comes to a boil, it’s simmered for 10 minutes to allow the ingredients to infuse and develop the complex flavors that make Tom Yum so distinctive.

The Vegetables: Fresh and Flavorful

While the broth is simmering, the vegetables are added to the soup for both texture and flavor. Oyster mushrooms, with their delicate flavor and tender texture, are the perfect addition to this soup. They absorb the flavors of the broth while providing a subtle chewiness that contrasts nicely with the soft prawns.

Roma tomatoes are added to the soup in wedges, giving the broth a touch of sweetness and a slight acidity that enhances the overall balance of flavors. The onions, cut into wedges, add a savory sweetness that complements the tanginess of the lime juice and the heat of the chilies.

The vegetables should be simmered in the broth for just a few minutes to retain their freshness and texture. This allows the mushrooms to soften, while the tomatoes and onions impart their flavors into the soup.

Cooking the Prawns: Tender and Juicy

The prawns are the star of the soup, providing protein and a delicate seafood flavor that pairs perfectly with the bold broth. The prawns are added to the soup near the end of the cooking process, and they only need about 2 minutes to cook through. Overcooking the prawns will make them tough, so it’s essential to cook them just until they turn pink and opaque.

Once the prawns are added, the soup is ready to be seasoned with sugar, fish sauce, and lime juice. The fish sauce adds a savory umami flavor, while the sugar balances out the sourness and heat from the lime and chilies. The lime juice is the key ingredient for the signature tangy taste of Tom Yum, providing the soup with its fresh, zesty finish.

Seasoning the Soup: A Perfect Balance of Flavors

Tom Yum Soup is known for its bold balance of spicy, sour, salty, and sweet flavors. After the prawns are cooked, the soup is seasoned with sugar, fish sauce, and lime juice. Fish sauce is a staple in Thai cooking and adds a rich, salty umami flavor that enhances the overall depth of the soup. The sugar softens the sharpness of the lime juice, balancing the acidity and bringing out the fresh flavors of the herbs and vegetables.

Taste the soup before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you prefer more spice, you can add more chilies, or if you like it a little sweeter, increase the sugar. The beauty of Tom Yum Soup is that it’s highly customizable to suit your taste preferences.

The Creamy Version: A Silky Twist

For those who prefer a creamier version of Tom Yum Soup, the Tom Yum Goong Nam Khon is the perfect option. This variation adds Thai roasted chili paste (Nam Prik Pa) and evaporated milk, creating a silky, rich texture that balances the bold, tangy broth. The chili paste adds a deep, smoky flavor to the soup, while the evaporated milk softens the spice and gives the soup a luxurious mouthfeel.

The creamy version of Tom Yum retains the essential flavors of the clear broth while offering a smoother, more comforting texture. It’s a great option if you prefer a milder, less spicy soup that still delivers all the complex flavors of the original.

Garnishing and Serving

Once the soup is ready, it’s time to garnish and serve. Fresh coriander (cilantro) is a must for topping off the soup, adding a burst of freshness and a hint of citrus. Some people like to add extra chilies for heat or serve the soup with a lime wedge on the side to brighten the flavors even more.

Tom Yum Soup is typically served hot and is best enjoyed as an appetizer or a light main course. It pairs beautifully with jasmine rice or a side of crispy spring rolls for a more complete Thai meal. Whether you’re enjoying it on a cold day or as part of a light, flavorful dinner, this soup is sure to satisfy your cravings for something spicy, tangy, and refreshing.

Nutritional Benefits

Tom Yum Soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. At just 156 calories per serving, it’s a light and satisfying dish that’s perfect for those looking to enjoy a healthy, flavorful meal without the guilt. Each serving provides around 21g of protein, mainly from the prawns, which makes the soup a great option for those looking to boost their protein intake. The soup is also rich in vitamins and minerals, with a good amount of vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and iron, making it a nutritious addition to your diet.

The soup’s high water content, combined with the fresh vegetables, makes it hydrating and refreshing, while the healthy fats from the fish sauce and the slight addition of evaporated milk (in the creamy version) contribute to a satisfying mouthfeel.

Conclusion: A Flavorful, Healing Dish

Tom Yum Soup is a beloved Thai classic for good reason. Its vibrant, tangy broth, filled with aromatic herbs, spices, and tender prawns, makes it both flavorful and comforting. Whether you opt for the clear version or the creamy variation, this soup is a deliciously satisfying dish that offers a unique balance of flavors and is packed with nutritional benefits.

Perfect for those who want a light, healthy meal or need a comforting dish when feeling under the weather, Tom Yum Soup is a go-to recipe that’s both easy to make and full of vibrant flavors. So, next time you’re craving something refreshing and tangy, try making this delicious Thai classic—you won’t be disappointed!