Best Thai Coconut Soup, famously known as Tom Kha Gai, is a rich yet refreshing Thai classic made with coconut milk, tender chicken, and fragrant herbs. Creamy, tangy, and gently spicy, this soup delivers the perfect balance of flavors that Thai cuisine is known for.
Thai Coconut Soup:
Loved worldwide for its comforting warmth and bold aroma, Thai Coconut Soup feels indulgent yet light. Whether served as a starter or a main dish, it’s a soul-soothing bowl that brings authentic Thai flavors straight to your kitchen.
History:
Tom Kha Gai originates from central Thailand and dates back several centuries. Traditionally made with galangal (kha), coconut milk, and chicken (gai), it was created to balance richness with acidity and heat. Over time, it became one of Thailand’s most iconic soups, celebrated for its harmony of creamy, sour, salty, and spicy notes.
Subscribe to our youtube channel Kitchenpedia for more delicious recipes and hit the like button if you enjoyed this youtubevideo. Share it with your friends and Family.
Best Thai Coconut Soup
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1 lb (450 g) chicken breast or thighs, sliced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (400 ml) coconut milk
- 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
- 4–5 slices galangal or ginger
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1–2 Thai red chilies, sliced
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Heat oil in a pot over medium heat.
- Add lemongrass, galangal, and lime leaves; sauté briefly until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Add chicken and mushrooms; cook until chicken is tender.
- Add fish sauce, sugar, and chilies.
- Simmer gently for 5 minutes—do not boil.
- Remove aromatics if desired and add lime juice.
- Garnish with cilantro and serve hot.
Notes
- Galangal gives authentic flavour; ginger is a substitute.
- Coconut milk should not be boiled.
- Lime juice is added at the end for freshness.
- Soup thickens slightly as it cools.
- Best enjoyed fresh.
Tips for Thai Coconut Soup:
- Use full-fat coconut milk for best taste.
- Adjust chilies to control heat.
- Add shrimp for variation.
- Taste before adding all lime juice.
- Serve with jasmine rice if desired.
FAQs for Thai Coconut Soup:
Q1: Is Tom Kha Gai spicy?
It’s mildly spicy but easily adjustable.
Q2: Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes, use vegetable broth and tofu.
Q3: What’s the difference between Tom Yum and Tom Kha?
Tom Kha is creamy with coconut milk; Tom Yum is clear and spicy-sour.
Q4: Can I store leftovers?
Refrigerate for up to 2 days.
Q5: Can I freeze Thai Coconut?
Freezing is not recommended due to coconut milk texture.
Conclusion:
Best Thai Coconut is a perfect harmony of creamy coconut milk, fragrant herbs, and bright citrus. Comforting yet vibrant, this Tom Kha Gai recipe is ideal for cozy dinners, special occasions, or whenever you crave authentic Thai flavors.