Tom Yum Goong
Tom Yum Goong is a classic Thai soup known for its bold flavors and fragrant aromas. This traditional dish features shrimp and a delightful blend of spices, perfect for warming up your meal times.
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Illustrated cooking guide
Step-by-step visual method
A polished English infographic for the whole cooking flow, paired with the full written recipe below for detail and SEO.
Written method
Instructions
Read through once, then cook at your own pace with the illustrated guide above.
- 1
In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil.
- 2
Once boiling, add the smashed lemongrass, torn kaffir lime leaves, and sliced galangal. Let it simmer for about 5-10 minutes to release the flavors.
- 3
Next, add the sliced onions and mushrooms to the pot, cooking until they soften, about 3-4 minutes.
- 4
Stir in the shrimp and cook until they turn pink, approximately 3-5 minutes.
- 5
Add the quartered tomatoes and smashed bird's eye chilies for a spicy kick, letting them simmer for another 2 minutes.
- 6
Season the soup with fish sauce and sugar. Stir well to combine and taste. Adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more fish sauce or sugar to suit your preference.
- 7
Remove the pot from heat and serve hot. Optionally, garnish with fresh cilantro.
Cook notes
Tips
Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor.
Adjust the number of chilies based on your spice preference.
Cook smarter
Helpful notes
Practical storage, serving, swap, and troubleshooting notes for a better first try.
Storage Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheat gently on the stove, adding a little water if needed.
Substitutions
- Replace shrimp with chicken or tofu for a different protein option.
- Use lime zest instead of kaffir lime leaves if unavailable.
What to Serve With
- Steamed jasmine rice
- Thai spring rolls
- Cucumber salad
Common Mistakes
- Not simmering the broth long enough to develop flavor.
- Cooking the shrimp too long, making it tough.
Recipe FAQ
What is Tom Yum Goong?
Tom Yum Goong is a spicy and sour Thai soup typically made with shrimp, herbs, and spices.
Can I make Tom Yum Goong without shrimp?
Yes, you can substitute shrimp with other proteins like chicken or tofu.
How spicy is Tom Yum Goong?
The spiciness can be adjusted by changing the number of bird's eye chilies used.
Kitchen tools
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Blender
Helpful for smooth sauces, soups, marinades, and purees.
Saucepan
Useful for simmering sauces, soups, grains, and small-batch stews.
Chef knife
A basic prep tool for vegetables, herbs, aromatics, and proteins.
Cutting board
Keeps prep organized for chopping, slicing, and staging ingredients.
Measuring spoons
Useful for balancing spices, salt, acids, and sauces.
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