Description: Tom Kha Gai is a rich and aromatic Thai soup made with coconut milk, galangal, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and tender chicken. It combines the creamy sweetness of coconut milk with the sharpness of lime juice and the heat of chili peppers, creating a harmonious and deeply satisfying dish.
History: Tom Kha Gai, which translates to “chicken galangal soup,” is a traditional Thai dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. The soup’s distinct flavors come from its combination of fragrant herbs and spices, reflective of Thai culinary traditions that emphasize balance and complexity. It is a beloved dish both in Thailand and internationally, often served in Thai restaurants around the world.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Serving Size: 4 servings
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450 g) chicken breast or thigh, thinly sliced
- 3 cups (720 ml) coconut milk
- 1 cup (240 ml) chicken broth
- 2-3 stalks lemongrass, cut into 2-inch pieces and smashed
- 4-5 slices galangal (or ginger if unavailable)
- 4-5 kaffir lime leaves, torn into pieces
- 1 cup (100 g) mushrooms, sliced (optional)
- 3-4 Thai bird chilies, smashed (adjust to taste)
- 1-2 tablespoons fish sauce (to taste)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1-2 tablespoons lime juice (to taste)
- Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Broth: In a large pot, combine the coconut milk and chicken broth. Add the lemongrass, galangal, and kaffir lime leaves. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the chicken slices to the pot. Reduce the heat and let it simmer until the chicken is cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Mushrooms and Season: If using mushrooms, add them to the pot and let them cook for another 3-4 minutes until they are tender. Add the Thai bird chilies, fish sauce, and sugar. Stir well to combine.
- Finish the Soup: Remove the soup from heat. Add lime juice to taste, adjusting the seasoning with more fish sauce, sugar, or lime juice as needed.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with chopped cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Final Thoughts: Tom Kha Gai is a comforting and flavorful soup that brings the essence of Thai cuisine to your table. Its perfect balance of creamy coconut milk, aromatic herbs, and spicy chilies makes it a delightful dish for any occasion. Easy to prepare and bursting with exotic flavors, this soup is sure to impress both family and friends. Enjoy it as a starter or a light main course, accompanied by a bowl of steamed jasmine rice.