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Easy Tom Kha Soup Recipe

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4.1 from 10 reviews

This Easy Tom Kha Soup is a creamy and aromatic Thai-inspired dish featuring coconut milk, shiitake mushrooms, and fragrant lemongrass. Loaded with fresh ginger, garlic, lime juice, and a hint of curry paste, this soup offers a perfect balance of savory and tangy flavors. It’s simple to prepare on the stovetop and can be made vegetarian by substituting vegetable broth and omitting fish sauce. A comforting and wholesome soup ideal for a light lunch or dinner.

Ingredients

Soup Base

  • 1 tbsp coconut oil
  • ½ yellow onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 thumb ginger, grated
  • 2 cups shiitake mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 cup shredded carrots

Liquid Ingredients

  • 2 ½ cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian)
  • 2 cups canned coconut milk
  • Juice of one lime
  • 2 tsp fish sauce (omit or substitute coconut aminos for vegetarian)
  • 1 tbsp coconut aminos

Seasonings and Aromatics

  • ¾ tsp curry paste (season to taste, or substitute ¾ tsp turmeric for AIP)
  • 1 small stalk lemongrass, thick outer layers removed
  • ¾ tsp sea salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper (omit for AIP)

To Serve

  • 1 tbsp fresh cilantro
  • Lime wedges

Instructions

  1. Prepare Aromatics: In a medium stock pot, melt the coconut oil over medium heat to create a base for the soup.
  2. Saute Onion, Ginger, and Garlic: Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-5 minutes or until translucent. Then add grated ginger and minced garlic and sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes to release their flavors.
  3. Add Vegetables: Stir in the shredded carrots and sliced shiitake mushrooms, cooking for 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften.
  4. Combine Liquids and Seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth (or vegetable broth), coconut milk, fish sauce, coconut aminos, lime juice, curry paste, and lemongrass. Add sea salt and black pepper (omit pepper for AIP). Stir well to incorporate all ingredients.
  5. Simmer the Soup: Bring the mixture to a low simmer and cook gently for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the soup to thicken slightly.
  6. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for added brightness and flavor.

Notes

  • Add Protein: For a heartier meal, include cooked chicken or shrimp to the soup to increase protein content.
  • Vegetarian/Vegan Modifications: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omit fish sauce or replace it with coconut aminos.
  • AIP Modifications: Substitute curry paste with turmeric and omit black pepper.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.