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Authentic Tom Kha Gai Soup

Deliciously Authentic Tom Kha Gai Soup That Warms the Soul

This Authentic Tom Kha Gai Soup features creamy coconut milk, zesty lime, and tender chicken, providing a comforting dish that warms the soul.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 cups
Course: Soups
Cuisine: Thai
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Soup Base
  • 4 cups chicken broth substitute vegetable broth for vegetarian version
  • 1 can coconut milk light coconut milk can be used for lower fat option
  • 1 stalk lemongrass smash and add whole, not to be eaten
  • 1 piece galangal substitute ginger if necessary
  • 4 leaves kaffir lime leaves discard after cooking
For Flavor & Texture
  • 2 cups sliced mushrooms use any variety you prefer
  • 1 piece chili adjust quantity based on heat preference
  • 1 pound chicken thinly sliced or shredded, replace with tofu for vegetarian option
  • 3 tablespoons fish sauce substitute with soy sauce for vegetarian option
For the Finishing Touches
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice adjust to taste
  • 1 tablespoon palm sugar can substitute with brown sugar

Equipment

  • soup pot

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. In a medium to large soup pot, combine chicken broth and coconut milk over medium heat. Stir gently and bring to a low simmer.
  2. Add the smashed lemongrass, galangal, and kaffir lime leaves to the pot and let simmer uncovered for 10-15 minutes.
  3. Stir in sliced mushrooms and halved chili, continue to simmer for another 5 minutes.
  4. Add thinly sliced chicken to the pot and simmer for about 5-7 minutes until cooked through.
  5. Stir in fish sauce, lime juice, and palm sugar. Adjust seasonings to perfect the balance of flavors.
  6. Remove the lemongrass stalk, galangal slices, and kafir lime leaves using a slotted spoon.
  7. Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh cilantro and sliced scallions, and serve hot.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 25gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 14gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 6mgIron: 15mg

Notes

Maintain a gentle simmer to avoid curdling the coconut milk, and taste broth for flavor balance before serving.

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