Tom Kha Gai
Tom kha gai is one of Thailand's most beloved soups. A silky, aromatic coconut broth that's simultaneously creamy, tangy, spicy, and herbaceous. Unlike its fiery cousin tom yum, this soup wraps you in warmth with a gentler touch. The coconut milk base tempers the heat while galangal, lemongrass, and makrut lime leaves build layers of fragrance that are absolutely intoxicating.
Tender chicken simmers gently in the broth alongside mushrooms that soak up all those incredible flavors. The finishing touches are what bring everything into balance: a squeeze of fresh lime juice for brightness, fish sauce for depth, and a drizzle of chili oil for those who want a little extra kick.
This is the soup you want when you're craving something comforting but exciting. Serve it in deep bowls over steamed jasmine rice to catch every drop, or enjoy it on its own as a light, nourishing meal. It comes together remarkably quickly for something that tastes this complex.
Ingredients
- ● 2 14-oz cans coconut milk
- ● 2 cups chicken broth
- ● 1 lb chicken breast
- ● 3 inches galangal
- ● 2 lemongrass stalks
- ● 5 makrut lime leaves
- ● 8 oz oyster mushrooms
- ● 3 Thai bird chiles
- ● 3 tbsp fish sauce
- ● 3 tbsp lime juice
- ● 1 tbsp palm sugar
- ● 1/4 cup fresh cilantro
- ● 1 tbsp chili oil
Instructions
- 1Pour the coconut milk and chicken broth into a large pot. Add the galangal, lemongrass, lime leaves, and Thai chiles. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
- 2Let the aromatics infuse the broth for 5 minutes at a low simmer, stirring occasionally. The kitchen should smell incredible.
- 3Add the sliced chicken and mushrooms. Simmer gently for 8-10 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the mushrooms are tender.
- 4Remove the pot from heat. Stir in the fish sauce, lime juice, and palm sugar. Taste and adjust the balance - you want equal parts salty, sour, and sweet.
- 5Ladle into deep bowls, making sure each serving gets plenty of chicken and mushrooms. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a drizzle of chili oil. Serve over jasmine rice if desired.
Nutrition Facts
| Calories | 420 |
|---|---|
| Protein | 30g |
| Carbohydrates | 12g |
| Fat | 30g |
