Thai Coconut Galangal Chicken Soup (Tom Kha Gai): ต้มข่าไก่
Tom Kha Kai is a delightful Thai soup that offers the rich, aromatic flavors of Tom Yum without the heat. The addition of coconut milk gives it a creamy texture and a slightly sweet taste. This soup typically features chicken, young galangal, chili, lemon, and fish sauce, and can be easily customized by adding shrimp instead of chicken. Tom Kha Kai is perfect as a side dish or a light meal.
You’ll learn how to prepare this delicious and easy Chicken with Coconut Soup at home.
Ingredients:
- 200 g chicken breast or chicken leg (with bone for more flavor)
- 250 ml coconut milk
- Water (to thin the coconut milk as needed)
- A few slices of galangal
- 4-5 pieces of lemongrass (cut into pieces)
- 3-5 kaffir lime leaves
- 1 red or white onion, sliced
- Garlic (to taste)
- Vegetables (such as mushrooms, carrots, baby corn, and tomatoes or cherry tomatoes)
- Spring onion (cut into 1-inch lengths)
- Fresh coriander or parsley (for garnishing)
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt (to taste)
- Sugar (optional, based on your preference)
- Black pepper (optional)
- Few drops of fish sauce (optional; leave out if you prefer)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Soup Base:
- In a sufficiently sized pot, add the coconut milk along with a little water to achieve your desired consistency.
- Add Aromatics and Vegetables:
- Stir in the sliced galangal, chopped lemongrass, sliced onion, garlic, baby corn, carrots, and cherry tomatoes.
- Bring to a Boil:
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, add sugar, salt, and the chicken pieces. Mix well.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Allow the soup to boil until the chicken is fully cooked. Then add the kaffir lime leaves, spring onions, black pepper, and lime juice. If desired, add more coconut milk for a creamier texture. Finally, stir in some fresh coriander for added flavor.
- Adjust Seasoning:
- Taste the soup and adjust seasoning as necessary. If you enjoy the flavor profile, you may not need to add fish sauce.
- Serve:
- Turn off the heat and your Tom Kha Kai is ready to serve! Ladle into bowls and garnish with additional coriander if desired.
Note:
For a vegetarian or vegan version, simply replace the chicken with tofu and add more vegetables while omitting the fish sauce.
Enjoy this aromatic and flavorful Tom Kha Kai that captures the essence of Thai cuisine!