The Best Thai Coconut Soup

Overview

This Thai Coconut Soup, also known as Tom Kha Gai, is a fragrant and creamy soup made with coconut milk, chicken, mushrooms, and a medley of aromatic herbs and spices. It's a perfect blend of sour, sweet, and spicy flavors.

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken breast, sliced thin
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 3 stalks lemongrass, cut into 2-inch pieces and bruised
• 5 kaffir lime leaves, torn
• 3-inch piece galangal, sliced
• 3-4 Thai chilies, crushed
• 2 tbsp fish sauce
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 2 tbsp lime juice
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Nutrition

• Calories: 320 per serving
• Protein: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fat: 24g
• Fiber: 2g

Instructions

1. Prepare Aromatics: In a large pot, bring chicken broth, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, galangal, and Thai chilies to a boil. Simmer for 10 minutes to infuse the flavors.
2. Add Chicken and Mushrooms: Add the sliced chicken and mushrooms to the pot. Cook until the chicken is done.
3. Add Coconut Milk and Seasoning: Stir in the coconut milk, fish sauce, and sugar. Simmer for another 5 minutes.
4. Finish with Lime Juice: Remove from heat and stir in lime juice.
5. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh cilantro and green onions, and serve immediately.

Kitchen Tools Required

• Large pot
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon

Interesting Background

Tom Kha Gai is a traditional Thai soup known for its rich coconut milk base and the unique flavors of galangal, lemongrass, and kaffir lime leaves. It's often enjoyed as a starter or a main course in Thai meals.