Tom Kha Gai (Thai Coconut Chicken Soup) Recipe

Tom Kha Gai, a comforting Thai soup, balances spicy, salty, sweet and sour flavors, all brought together by the richness of the coconut milk. Its vibrant taste and the hearty chunks of chicken and mushrooms make it a delightful and satisfying main dish or appetizer. The hint of lime is refreshing, while the lemongrass and ginger lend it a subtle tang and complexity.

Photos of Tom Kha Gai (Thai Coconut Chicken Soup) Recipe

While most ingredients for this soup can be found in a standard supermarket, you might need to search a bit harder for a couple of them. Lemongrass and fish sauce are essential to this dish, providing its unique Thai flavors. Lemongrass, a fragrant tropical grass, is often available in the produce section, but if you can't find it fresh, look for it in the freezer section or as a dry spice. Fish sauce, an umami-rich sauce made from fermented fish, can be found in the international aisle.

Ingredients for Tom Kha Gai: Thai Coconut Chicken Soup

Lemongrass: A fragrant herb that gives the soup a fresh, lemony flavor.

Ginger: Adds a spicy, aromatic kick to the soup.

Lime juice: Provides a tangy acidity that balances the richness of the soup.

Chicken stock: The base of the soup, adding depth and richness.

Green onions: Gives a mild, sweet onion flavor.

Chicken: The main protein source in this dish.

White mushrooms: Adds texture and an earthy flavor.

Coconut Milk: Provides a creamy, rich base and balances the spicy and tangy flavors.

Fish Sauce: A salty, savory sauce that adds depth to the soup's flavor profile.

Coconut Sugar: Adds a subtle sweetness to balance the other flavors.

One reader, Kip Pierson says:

This tom kha gai recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are so authentic and the soup is incredibly comforting. The combination of lemongrass, coconut milk, and chicken is simply divine. I highly recommend this recipe to anyone who loves Thai cuisine. It's a must-try!

Kip Pierson

Techniques Required

How to prepare lemongrass: Lemongrass can be prepared by removing the tough outer layers and then finely chopping the tender inner part for use in the recipe.

How to prepare ginger: To prepare ginger, peel the skin using a spoon or a peeler, then finely mince or grate it for use in the recipe.

How to prepare lime juice: Fresh lime juice can be prepared by juicing limes using a citrus juicer or by hand, and then straining the juice to remove any pulp or seeds.

How to prepare chicken stock: Good-quality chicken stock can be prepared by simmering chicken bones, vegetables, and aromatics in water for a few hours, then straining the liquid to use as a flavorful base for the soup.

How to prepare green onions: Green onions can be prepared by trimming the roots and any wilted parts, then slicing the white and green parts separately for use in the recipe.

How to cook chicken: Cooked chicken can be prepared by boiling, grilling, or roasting chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), then shredding or chopping it for use in the soup.

How to prepare white mushrooms: White mushrooms can be prepared by wiping them clean with a damp cloth, then slicing or quartering them for use in the soup.

How to prepare coconut milk: Coconut milk can be prepared by blending shredded coconut with water and then straining the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to extract the milk.

How to use fish sauce: Fish sauce can be used as a savory and salty seasoning in the soup. It should be added gradually to taste, as it is quite potent.

How to use coconut sugar: Coconut sugar can be used as a natural sweetener in the soup. It should be added to the soup and stirred until dissolved, adjusting the sweetness to taste.

How To Make Tom Kha Gai (Thai Coconut Chicken Soup)

Tom kha gai is a Thai soup with shredded chicken, coconut milk, mushroom, lemon grass, and herbs and spices. It’s a meal that’s both creamy and comforting.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 25 minutes

Total: 35 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

2fresh lemongrass stalks,tough outer layers removed
2tbspfresh ginger,grated or finely-chopped
¼: 5px; letter-spacing: 2px”>6cupsgood-quality chicken stock
4green onions,thinly-sliced with the white and parts separated
2cupschicken,cooked, shredded
8ozwhite mushrooms,or shiitake or oyster mushrooms, or a combination of desired mushrooms, sliced
27ozcoconut milk,can
2tbspfish sauce
3tbspcoconut sugar,to taste, or use another favorite sweetener

Instructions

Using the back of a knife, lightly smash the lemongrass on a cutting board. Cut the lemongrass into 1-inch pieces, and add to a large stockpot.
Add lemongrass, ginger, fresh lime juice (or kaffir lime leaves), chicken broth, and the white parts of the green onions to the stockpot, and stir to combine. Bring to a boil over high heat.
Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Strain out the broth and discard the solids, then return the broth to the stockpot.
Add cooked chicken, mushrooms, coconut milk, fish sauce, and sugar, and stir to combine.
Increase heat to medium-high until it reaches a simmer, then continue cooking for 1 to 2 more minutes until the mushrooms are cooked and softened, stirring occasionally. Taste and season with salt and pepper, if needed.
Serve immediately, garnished liberally with desired toppings and the green parts of the green onions.

Recipe Notes

Topping suggestion includes fresh cilantro, thinly-sliced Thai red chiles, fresh lime wedges, etc.

Nutrition

Calories: 363.67kcal
Fat: 27.99g
Saturated Fat: 20.21g
Trans Fat: 0.03g
Monounsaturated Fat: 4.11g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.80g
Carbohydrates: 17.35g
Fiber: 0.54g
Sugar: 8.40g
Protein: 14.37g
Cholesterol: 31.65mg
Sodium: 653.15mg
Calcium: 39.21mg
Potassium: 699.18mg
Iron: 4.56mg
Vitamin A: 20.23µg
Vitamin C: 7.73mg

Technique Tip for Making Tom Kha Gai

When preparing the lemongrass for this tom kha gai recipe, it's important to bruise it properly to release its aromatic oils. To do this, use the flat side of a knife or a rolling pin and press down firmly along the length of the stalk until it cracks and becomes fragrant. This will ensure that your soup has a strong, authentic lemongrass flavor.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Tom Kha Gai

Prep ahead: Chop and measure all ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.

Use rotisserie chicken: Save time by using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken from scratch.

Organize your workspace: Keep your cooking area tidy and organized to avoid wasting time searching for ingredients and tools.

Multi-task: While the soup is simmering, prepare the garnishes or clean up to make the most of your time.

Invest in quality tools: Quality knives and kitchen tools can make prep work faster and more efficient.

Follow the recipe: Stick to the recipe to avoid mistakes that could lead to time-consuming adjustments.

Substitute Ingredients For Tom Kha Gai (Thai Coconut Chicken Soup) Recipe

lemongrass - Substitute with lemon zest: Lemon zest can provide a similar citrusy and aromatic flavor to the dish, although it won't have the same texture as lemongrass.
chicken stock - Substitute with vegetable stock: Vegetable stock can be used as a substitute to make the soup vegetarian, while still providing a flavorful base for the dish.
chicken - Substitute with tofu: Tofu can be used as a plant-based alternative to chicken, adding a similar protein component to the soup.
coconut milk - Substitute with coconut cream: Coconut cream can be used as a substitute for a richer and creamier texture in the soup.
fish sauce - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can provide a savory and umami flavor similar to fish sauce, while also making the dish vegetarian-friendly.
coconut sugar - Substitute with brown sugar: Brown sugar can be used as a substitute to add sweetness to the soup, although the flavor profile may vary slightly.

How to Beautifully Present This Thai Coconut Chicken Soup

Elevate the plating: When presenting the Tom Kha Gai, focus on creating a visually stunning plate. Use edible flowers and microgreens to add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
Incorporate artistic drizzling: Drizzle a small amount of coconut milk on top of the soup in an artistic manner. This not only adds a touch of elegance but also enhances the overall presentation.
Utilize elegant serving bowls: Opt for beautiful, handcrafted bowls to serve the soup. The right vessel can elevate the dining experience and leave a lasting impression on the judges.
Garnish with precision: Pay attention to the placement of the cilantro and chili slices as garnish. Each element should be meticulously placed to create a balanced and visually appealing presentation.
Incorporate negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to allow the vibrant colors and textures of the soup and garnishes to stand out, creating a visually captivating presentation.

Essential Tools for Making Tom Kha Gai

Cutting board: A flat board used for cutting and preparing ingredients.
Knife: Essential for slicing, dicing, and chopping various ingredients.

How To Store and Freeze Tom Kha Gai

To store leftover tom kha gai soup, allow it to cool completely to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
When reheating the refrigerated soup, gently simmer it in a pot over medium heat until it's heated through. Avoid boiling the soup, as this may cause the coconut milk to separate or curdle.
If you plan to freeze the soup, it's best to do so before adding the coconut milk. Prepare the soup up until the point where you would add the coconut milk, then allow it to cool completely.
Transfer the cooled soup to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, leaving some space at the top for expansion. Label the container with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat frozen tom kha gai soup, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, transfer the soup to a pot and gently simmer over medium heat.
Add the coconut milk to the reheated soup and stir until it's well combined and heated through. Adjust the seasoning with fish sauce, lime juice, or sugar if needed before serving.

How To Reheat Leftovers

Reheat the tom kha gai in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired temperature. This method ensures that the coconut milk doesn't separate or curdle, maintaining the soup's creamy texture.
If the soup has thickened in the refrigerator, add a splash of chicken broth or water to thin it out while reheating. This will help restore the original consistency of the tom kha gai.
For a quicker reheating method, transfer individual portions of the soup to microwave-safe bowls and heat on high power in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the soup is heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the coconut milk to separate.
If you find that the lemongrass and ginger flavors have mellowed after refrigeration, add a fresh slice of ginger and a bruised lemongrass stalk to the soup while reheating to reinvigorate the aromatic qualities of the tom kha gai.
To preserve the texture of the mushrooms and chicken, avoid reheating the soup for too long or at too high a temperature. Prolonged exposure to heat can cause the mushrooms to become rubbery and the chicken to overcook and dry out.
If you have stored the soup and the rice separately, reheat them individually before combining them in a bowl. This will prevent the rice from becoming mushy and overcooked in the soup.
For a fresh twist on leftover tom kha gai, transform it into a coconut curry by adding some red curry paste, extra vegetables, and a protein of your choice. Simmer the mixture until the flavors meld and the added ingredients are cooked through.

Random Fact about Tom Kha Gai

Tom Kha Gai is a traditional Thai soup that is known for its unique combination of flavors, including the citrusy taste of lemongrass and the creamy richness of coconut milk.

Is This Thai Coconut Chicken Soup Recipe Economical for Home Cooking?

This tom kha gai: Thai coconut chicken soup recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The key ingredients, such as chicken, coconut milk, and mushrooms, are generally affordable and widely available. The use of lemongrass, ginger, and fish sauce may require a one-time investment, but they can be used in various other recipes. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $25. Overall, this recipe offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures, earning a solid 8/10 rating for its taste, nutritional value, and affordability.

Is Tom Kha Gai Healthy or Unhealthy?

This Thai coconut chicken soup recipe, known as Tom Kha Gai, offers a delightful blend of flavors and nutrients. The use of fresh ingredients like lemongrass, ginger, lime juice, and green onions provides a burst of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. Chicken serves as a lean protein source, while mushrooms add a healthy dose of fiber and vitamins. However, the generous amount of coconut milk in the recipe raises concerns about its overall healthiness due to the high saturated fat content.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of coconut milk and replace some of it with low-fat coconut milk or chicken broth to maintain the creamy texture while cutting down on saturated fat
Increase the variety and quantity of vegetables in the soup, such as bell peppers, carrots, and baby spinach, to boost the fiber and nutrient content
Opt for organic, free-range chicken to ensure higher quality protein and fewer additives
Decrease the amount of coconut sugar or replace it with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup to lower the overall sugar content
Add a handful of fresh herbs like cilantro or Thai basil for an extra pop of flavor and antioxidants

Editor's Thoughts on This Thai Coconut Chicken Soup Recipe

The tom kha gai recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The combination of lemongrass, ginger, and coconut milk creates a rich and aromatic base, while the chicken and mushrooms add heartiness to the soup. The balance of tangy lime juice, savory fish sauce, and sweet coconut sugar creates a harmonious and complex flavor profile. This recipe is a wonderful representation of Thai cuisine and is sure to impress with its vibrant and comforting qualities.

Enhance Your Tom Kha Gai (Thai Coconut Chicken Soup) Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Steamed Jasmine Rice: Fluffy jasmine rice steamed to perfection, perfect for soaking up the delicious tom kha gai broth.

Thai Cucumber Salad: A refreshing and tangy salad with crisp cucumbers, red onions, and a zesty dressing to balance out the rich flavors of the soup.

Coconut Sticky Rice: A sweet and creamy coconut-infused sticky rice dessert, the perfect way to end a Thai meal.

Other Thai Soup Recipes Similar to Tom Kha Gai

Green Curry Chicken: This aromatic and spicy Thai dish is made with tender chicken, flavorful green curry paste, creamy coconut milk, and a variety of vegetables. It's a perfect balance of heat and flavor.

Mango Sticky Rice: Indulge in this classic Thai dessert made with sweet sticky rice, ripe mango slices, and a drizzle of rich coconut cream. It's a delightful combination of sweet and creamy flavors.

Pad Thai: Whip up this popular Thai street food at home with stir-fried rice noodles, succulent shrimp or chicken, crunchy bean sprouts, and a tangy tamarind sauce. It's a satisfying and flavorful noodle dish.

Pineapple Fried Rice: Experience the tropical flavors of Thailand with this colorful and fragrant fried rice dish. It's made with juicy pineapple chunks, tender chicken or shrimp, and a medley of vegetables for a delightful meal.

Suggested Appetizers and Desserts to Serve with This Thai Coconut Chicken Soup

Appetizers:

Crispy Calamari: Lightly breaded and fried to perfection, our crispy calamari is served with a zesty marinara dipping sauce for a delightful start to your meal.

Savory Stuffed Mushrooms: Indulge in our savory stuffed mushrooms, filled with a delicious blend of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs, then baked to golden perfection. A perfect bite-sized appetizer to tantalize your taste buds.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth and creamy texture will melt in your mouth with every spoonful, leaving you craving for more.

Apple Pie: Savor the warm and comforting flavors of a classic apple pie, with a flaky golden crust and a sweet and spiced apple filling. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of sweetness and creaminess.

Why trust this Tom Kha Gai (Thai Coconut Chicken Soup) Recipe:

This recipe for tom kha gai offers an authentic taste of Thailand, using lemongrass, ginger, and coconut milk to create a rich and aromatic soup. The use of fresh ingredients such as lime juice and chicken stock ensures a vibrant and flavorful base. The inclusion of fish sauce and coconut sugar adds depth and balance to the dish. With a focus on traditional Thai flavors and cooking techniques, this recipe is a trustworthy guide to creating a delicious and genuine Thai coconut chicken soup experience.

Share your thoughts on Tom Kha Gai (Thai Coconut Chicken Soup) and your experience making this delicious recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum. Let's discuss any tips, variations, or questions you may have about this flavorful Thai soup!

FAQ:

Can I use canned coconut milk instead of fresh coconut milk?

Yes, you can use canned coconut milk as a substitute for fresh coconut milk. Just make sure to use good quality canned coconut milk for the best flavor.

Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs. However, chicken thighs tend to be more flavorful and juicy in this recipe.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can make a vegetarian version of this soup by substituting the chicken with tofu or adding more vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas.

Can I prepare this soup in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the broth in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat the broth and add the remaining ingredients.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When reheating, gently warm the soup over low heat to preserve the flavors and textures.