poultry
boiled
everyday
main course
creamy
Thai
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Tom Kha Gai (Thai Coconut Chicken Soup)
Difficulty
easy
Time
45m
Price Category
average
Calories
Medium
Tom Kha Gai is an iconic Thai soup that immediately captivates with its creamy coconut milk base, aromatic spices, and tender chicken. The unique flavor profile of galangal, lemongrass, and kaffir lime leaves makes it both refreshing and comforting. It's a perfect choice for a chilly day or whenever you crave something exotic yet homely. Prepare this simple yet flavor-rich soup and take a culinary journey to distant Thailand right from your kitchen!
ingredients
Steps
Prepare Aromatics
Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. In a large pot or saucepan, combine the coconut milk and chicken broth. Add the thinly sliced galangal, bruised and cut lemongrass, and torn kaffir lime leaves. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes to infuse the flavors.
Cook Chicken & Mushrooms
Add the bite-sized chicken pieces and oyster mushrooms to the soup. Cook for another 10-12 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and the mushrooms are tender. Be careful not to overcook the chicken to keep it tender.
Season & Serve
Stir in the fish sauce, fresh lime juice, and palm sugar. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed – Tom Kha Gai should have a balance of sweet, sour, salty, and a hint of spice. If you like it spicy, add the crushed Thai chilies now. Remove from heat, ladle into bowls, and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve immediately while hot.
Extra Tips
► You can remove the lemongrass and galangal before serving if you prefer not to have them in the soup.
► If you like it spicy, add more chilies or fresh chili slices when serving.
► The soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld, so consider making a larger batch.
Nutrition
| Per 100g | Per Serving 350g / 12.3 oz | |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 180-220 kcal | 630-770 kcal |
| Protein | 10-12g | 35-42g |
| Fat | 12-15g | 42-52g |
| Carbohydrate | 5-7g | 17-24g |
| Fiber | 1-2g | 3-7g |
| Sugar | 2-4g | 7-14g |