When it comes to comfort food, this Easy Chicken Tom Yum Soup is a warm hug in a bowl. With its aromatic blend of lemongrass and kaffir lime leaves, you'll find yourself transported to a bustling Thai market. The tender chicken and savory broth create a delightful harmony of flavors. Curious about how to whip up this fragrant dish in your own kitchen? Let's explore the simple steps to bring this culinary experience home.
Recipe Tips and Tricks
- Combine chicken broth and water with lemongrass and kaffir lime leaves; simmer for 5 minutes to infuse flavors.
- Add thinly sliced chicken breast and mushrooms, cooking until the chicken is fully cooked through.
- Stir in chilies, fish sauce, and lime juice for authentic Tom Yum flavor.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with jasmine rice or a crisp Thai salad for a complete meal.
- Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to three days or freeze for three months for easy future meals.
How To Make It – Recipe
To create a scrumptious and fragrant Chicken Tom Yum Soup, you'll want to collect fresh components and follow a few straightforward steps. This classic Thai soup bursts with tastes from lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and chili, making it a perfect dish for any event. The combination of spicy, sour, and savory notes will warm you up and entice your taste buds, providing a comforting yet exhilarating dining experience. The charm of Chicken Tom Yum Soup lies in its adaptability; you can modify the heat level according to your preference or even add other components like mushrooms or shrimp. This recipe is uncomplicated and ideal for both novice cooks and experienced chefs looking for a quick and satisfying meal. With just a few components and minimal preparation, you can have a bowl of this delightful soup ready in no time.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 stalk lemongrass, cut into 2-inch pieces and smashed
- 3-4 kaffir lime leaves, torn into pieces
- 3-4 slices galangal (or ginger)
- 200g chicken breast, thinly sliced
- 100g mushrooms, sliced
- 2-3 Thai bird's eye chilies, smashed (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Optional: chili paste (Nam Prik Pao), for added flavor
In a pot, combine chicken broth and water, then add the smashed lemongrass, torn kaffir lime leaves, and slices of galangal. Bring the mixture to a boil and let it simmer for about 5 minutes to infuse the flavors.
Add the sliced chicken breast and mushrooms, cooking until the chicken is fully cooked. Stir in the bird's eye chilies, fish sauce, and lime juice. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, then remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
For an even more authentic flavor, consider using homemade chicken broth. If you prefer your soup spicier, feel free to add more chilies or a spoonful of chili paste.
Remember that the soup can be adjusted to suit your taste, whether you want it more sour, spicy, or savory. Enjoy experimenting with the components, and don't hesitate to add other vegetables or proteins for a personalized touch!
Substitution Suggestions
While the traditional ingredients for Chicken Tom Yum Soup offer a delightful flavor profile, you can easily make substitutions to suit your taste or dietary needs.
If you're looking for spice alternatives, consider using ginger or chili flakes instead of lemongrass or Thai bird's eye chilies for a different kick.
For protein swaps, tofu or shrimp can be fantastic options if you're vegetarian or want a change from chicken.
You can also use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth to keep it lighter.
These substitutions will still deliver a delicious and satisfying soup experience tailored just for you! Additionally, experimenting with spices can elevate your soup's flavor; for instance, adding hearty Indian spices can give your dish an exciting twist.
Serving Suggestions
Once you've customized your Chicken Tom Yum Soup with your favorite substitutions, it's time to think about how to serve it.
For an eye-catching presentation, consider a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime as garnish options. These not only enhance the flavor but also add a vibrant touch.
Pair your soup with side dishes like jasmine rice or a crisp Thai salad to balance the bold flavors. A comforting chicken soup can also be a great alternative if you're looking for something milder.
If you want an extra kick, serve it alongside chili paste for those who enjoy a spicier bite.
Enjoy your delightful bowl of comfort with these thoughtful serving ideas!
Make-Ahead and Storage
If you're looking to save time without sacrificing flavor, making Chicken Tom Yum Soup ahead of time is a fantastic option.
This recipe is perfect for meal prep—simply whip up a batch on your day off, and you'll have delicious soup ready to enjoy throughout the week.
It's also freezer friendly, allowing you to portion out servings for future meals. Just let the soup cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers.
When you're ready to indulge, you'll have a vibrant bowl of comforting soup waiting for you, saving you time and delivering incredible taste whenever you need it! Additionally, homemade chicken soup is known for its nutritional benefits, which can help boost your wellness during colder months.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
Storing and reheating your Chicken Tom Yum Soup is simple and guarantees you can enjoy its bold flavors later.
For leftover storage, let the soup cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It'll stay fresh for up to three days in the fridge or can be frozen for up to three months. Adding fresh herbs can enhance the flavor when you reheat it.
When you're ready to dive back in, use reheating tips like warming it gently in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between.
Enjoy every savory spoonful as if it's freshly made!
Nutrition Facts(per serving)
When it comes to enjoying Chicken Tom Yum Soup, you'll be pleased to know it's not just delicious but also packed with nutrition. Each serving typically contains around 150 calories, making it a light yet satisfying meal.
The vibrant ingredients, like lemongrass and lime leaves, offer impressive vitamin benefits, including vitamin C and antioxidants that boost your immune system. Additionally, this soup can be a great option for healing chicken soup when you're feeling under the weather.
Plus, the chicken provides lean protein, helping you feel full and energized.
With its low caloric content and rich nutrient profile, this soup is a fantastic choice for a healthy, flavorful dish that's sure to please your taste buds and nourish your body!
Final Thoughts
As you savor each spoonful of Chicken Tom Yum Soup, you'll find that this dish not only delights your palate but also embodies the essence of wholesome cooking.
It's the perfect comfort food, offering a warm embrace on chilly days or whenever you crave something soothing.
Plus, it's a fantastic option for quick meals, allowing you to whip up a delicious dinner in no time.
The balance of spicy, sour, and savory flavors creates a harmony that satisfies your taste buds. Additionally, the use of Korean chicken soup in various cultures highlights its versatility and appeal, making it a beloved dish worldwide.
Recipe FAQs
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken for this recipe! Just guarantee it's fully thawed before cooking for even flavor distribution. Don't forget to adjust the cooking time as needed to achieve perfect results.
Is Tom Yum Soup Spicy?
Tom Yum soup's definitely got a kick! Its spice levels can vary, balancing fiery heat with tangy flavors. You'll love how the bold ingredients create a vibrant, aromatic experience that warms the soul and excites the palate.
What Is the Origin of Tom Yum Soup?
Tom yum soup hails from Thailand, embodying the vibrant essence of Thai cuisine. Its bold flavor profile combines zesty lime, fragrant herbs, and spicy chili, reflecting the country's rich culinary heritage and cultural influences.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Soup?
You can add various vegetable varieties like mushrooms, bok choy, or bell peppers. Not only do they enhance flavor, but they also boost soup nutrition, making your dish more vibrant and satisfying. Enjoy your creation!
How Long Does It Take to Make This Soup?
It takes about 15 minutes for preparation time and another 20 minutes for cooking time. You'll savor every moment as the flavors meld together, creating a deliciously aromatic soup that warms your soul. Enjoy!
