Tom Yum Goong
Story
Thailand’s many culinary traditions are the source of the rich history of Tom Yum Goong, a staple of Thai cuisine. This famous cuisine, which has its origins in central Thailand, highlights the strong tastes and fragrant herbs of the nation. “Goong” alludes to the flavorful, succulent shrimp that are the main attraction of the soup, while “Tom Yum” describes its unique blend of spicy and sour flavors. Typically, the recipe calls for a fragrant broth that is flavored with chili peppers, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, and lemongrass to create a symphony of flavors that entice the palate. From modest beginnings, Tom Yum Goong has grown over time to become a beloved, internationally recognized emblem of Thai cuisine known for its richness and complexity of taste. Thai restaurants and homes alike frequently serve it as an appetizer or main meal, demonstrating the dish’s cultural significance and enduring popularity.
Available at
Som Tum Der (Bangkok)
Cost & Location
Cost: 150-300 THB per dish
Location: 5/5 Saladaeng Road, Silom, Bangrak, Bangkok
Thip Samai (Bangkok)
Cost & Location
Cost: 100-200 THB per dish
Location: 313 Mahachai Road, Samranrat, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok
Boat Noodle Alley (Ayutthaya)
Cost & Location
Cost: 40-60 THB per bowl
Location: Uthong Road, Ayutthaya
Sorn (Bangkok)
Cost & Location
Cost: 1,500-3,000 THB per person
Location: 56 Sukhumvit Rd, Khlong Toei Nuea, Watthana, Bangkok
Pai Thai (Bangkok)
Cost & Location
Cost: 500-1,000 THB per dish
Location: 31st Floor, 117/1 Ratchadamri Rd, Lumphini, Pathum Wan District, Bangkok
Nutritional Information
The nutritional data for “Tom Yum Goong” may change according on the ingredients, serving size, and manner of cooking. Nonetheless, the following provides a broad summary of the nutritional elements in a standard serving:
| Serving Size | 1 cup (approximately 240ml) |
| Calories | 70-100 kcal |
| Total Fat | 2-4g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.5-1g |
| Cholesterol | 30-50mg |
| Sodium | 800-1200mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 5-8g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1-2g |
| Sugars | 2-3g |
| Protein | 5-8g |
It’s crucial to remember that these amounts are estimates that could change depending on the particular recipe and ingredients utilized. Furthermore, although ingredients like shrimp paste and fish sauce can contribute to a very high sodium content, Tom Yum Goong is generally moderate in calories and fat.
Tom Yum Goong
Cuisine: ThaiDifficulty: Easy4
servings20
minutes20
minutes150
kcalTo make Tom Yum Goong, simmer lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, galangal, and chili peppers in broth. Add shrimp, mushrooms, and tomatoes, cooking until shrimp turn pink. Season with fish sauce, lime juice, and sugar. Garnish with cilantro and enjoy hot. Adjust spice level to taste. Serve with steamed rice if desired.
Ingredients
Shrimp (prawns)
Lemongrass
Kaffir lime leaves
Galangal (Thai ginger)
Thai bird’s eye chili peppers
Mushrooms (commonly straw mushrooms)
Tomatoes
Fish sauce
Lime juice
Sugar
Cilantro (coriander leaves)
Shallots (optional)
Garlic (optional)
Chili paste or chili flakes (optional, for extra spice)
Directions
- Prepare the Ingredients
- Peel and devein 400g of shrimp (prawns).
- Slice 2 stalks of lemongrass into 2-inch pieces.
- Tear 4-5 kaffir lime leaves.
- Slice 50g of galangal into thin slices.
- Halve 6-8 Thai bird’s eye chili peppers (adjust quantity based on desired spice level).
- Slice 200g of mushrooms (straw mushrooms work well).
- Cut 2 tomatoes into wedges.
- Chop a handful of cilantro (coriander leaves) for garnish.
- Prepare the Broth
- In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water or chicken broth to a simmer.
- Add the lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, galangal, and Thai bird’s eye chili peppers to the pot.
- Cook the Shrimp and Vegetables
- Once the broth is fragrant, add the shrimp and mushrooms.
- Cook for 3-4 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
- Season the Soup
- Season the soup with 3 tablespoons of fish sauce, 3 tablespoons of lime juice, and 1 tablespoon of sugar.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, adding more fish sauce, lime juice, or sugar if needed.
- Garnish and Serve
- Remove the pot from heat and add the tomato wedges.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro.
- Serve hot in bowls, with steamed rice on the side if desired.
Notes
- Experiment with spice levels and ingredients to tailor the soup to your taste buds for a truly personalized experience.