Tom Kha Gai – Thai Coconut Chicken Soup

Introducing Tom Kha Gai – a delightful Thai Coconut Chicken Soup that’s bursting with vibrant flavors! In this recipe, tender mushrooms, onions, and sweet red peppers are sautéed to perfection in fragrant coconut oil. Thai chilis, garlic, galangal (or ginger), and lemongrass create a harmonious blend of aromatics, while red curry paste adds a kick of spice.

Then, the soup is enriched with chicken bone broth and creamy coconut milk, accompanied by slices of tender chicken breast and optional shrimp. After a brief simmer, a generous squeeze of fresh lime juice brightens up the flavors, and a garnish of lime slices, green onions, and cilantro adds the perfect finishing touch. Dive into this comforting bowl of Tom Kha Gai and embark on a culinary journey to Thailand!

How to make Tom Kha Gai – Thai Coconut Chicken Soup

Sauté in medium size pot over medium heat in about 2 tbsp coconut oil until tender

6 mushrooms, sliced

1/2 cup onion, diced

1/2 sweet red pepper, diced

2 Thai chili, halved or to taste

2 cloves garlic, minced

2” Galangal, sub. – fresh ginger, grated*

1 stalk Lemongrass, pounded and chopped into chunks, sub. – 2 tsp lemongrass paste*

2 tsp Red curry paste or to taste

Then add

2 cups chicken bone broth, sub. – chicken stock*

1 can Coconut milk

1 Chicken breast, cooked and sliced

12 Shrimp, peeled/deveined cooked (optional)

Then

Stir well to incorporate

Simmer on low heat for about 5-10 minutes

Finish with a good squeeze of fresh lime juice

Garnish with fresh lime slices, green onion and cilantro

Enjoy !!

Tips: Galangal and Lemongrass is sometimes hard to find here. I don’t notice much difference in flavour using the substitutions. You might want to remove before serving.

Notes:

Galangal Substitute: If you can’t find galangal, fresh ginger grated finely can be used as a substitute. While galangal has a distinct flavor, ginger provides a similar aromatic profile.

Lemongrass Substitute: Lemongrass paste can be a convenient alternative if fresh lemongrass is unavailable. Use 2 teaspoons of lemongrass paste for the recipe, ensuring it’s well incorporated for that signature citrusy note.

Red Curry Paste: Adjust the amount of red curry paste according to your spice preference. Start with 2 teaspoons and add more gradually if you prefer a spicier soup. Keep in mind that the paste varies in intensity between brands, so adjust accordingly.

Chicken Bone Broth vs. Chicken Stock: While chicken bone broth adds depth of flavor, chicken stock can be substituted if bone broth isn’t available. Both options provide a rich base for the soup.

Optional Shrimp: The addition of shrimp lends a delightful seafood flavor to the soup. If you’re a seafood lover, consider adding peeled and deveined cooked shrimp for an extra layer of texture and taste.

Simmering Time: Simmer the soup on low heat for 5-10 minutes to allow all the flavors to meld together. Avoid boiling vigorously, as it may alter the consistency and taste of the soup.

Finishing Touch: Fresh lime juice adds a burst of acidity and brightness to the soup. Adjust the amount according to your taste preference, ensuring the soup is perfectly balanced before serving.

Garnish: Fresh lime slices, green onions, and cilantro not only add visual appeal but also enhance the overall flavor profile of the soup. Feel free to adjust the garnishes to your liking or add additional herbs such as Thai basil for an extra layer of freshness.

Enjoy: Once garnished, savor the aromatic flavors of this comforting Thai Coconut Chicken Soup. It’s a perfect balance of creamy coconut milk, fragrant spices, and tender chicken, sure to warm both body and soul.

Nutrition Information:

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I substitute galangal with ginger in Tom Kha Gai?

Yes, you can substitute galangal with fresh ginger.

Use about 2 inches of grated ginger as a replacement.

Is lemongrass paste an acceptable substitute for fresh lemongrass?

Certainly, you can substitute 2 teaspoons of lemongrass paste for the fresh lemongrass.

Adjust the quantity based on your taste preferences.

Can I use chicken stock instead of chicken bone broth?

Yes, you can use chicken stock as a substitute for chicken bone broth in this recipe.

Is it necessary to include shrimp in the soup, or can I skip it?

The shrimp is optional, and you can omit it if you prefer a version without seafood.

How long should I simmer Tom Kha Gai on low heat?

Simmer the soup on low heat for about 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Adjust the time based on your desired level of infusion.

Can I use regular ginger instead of galangal in Tom Kha Gai?

Yes, you can substitute fresh ginger for galangal.

Use approximately 2 inches of grated ginger as a replacement.

Is lemongrass paste an acceptable alternative to fresh lemongrass?