- Make the broth base
In a medium saucepan, bring the water or chicken stock to a boil. Add the smashed lemongrass, sliced galangal, and torn kaffir lime leaves. Simmer for about 5–7 minutes to infuse the broth with flavor.
- Add mushrooms and shrimp
Toss in the mushrooms and let them cook for 2–3 minutes. Then, add the shrimp. Cook for another 2–3 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through.
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- Season the soup
Add the fish sauce, chili paste (Nam Prik Pao), and crushed Thai chilies. Stir to combine and simmer for another minute. Taste and adjust the saltiness with more fish sauce if needed.
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- Add the lime juice
Remove from heat and stir in the fresh lime juice. This preserves the sour brightness of the lime. Taste again—you want a balanced kick of sour, salty, and spicy.
- Serve hot
Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves. Serve immediately while it’s piping hot.
- Calories:160 kcal
- Protein:18 g
- Fat:6 g
- Carbohydrates:8 g
- Fiber:1 g
- Sugars:2 g
- Sodium:850 mg
- Cholesterol:120 mg
- Saturated Fat:1 g
- Potassium:350 mg
Tom Yum Goong Soup is one of Thailand’s most beloved dishes. It’s aromatic, spicy, and sour, showcasing the bold flavors of Thai cuisine in every spoonful. “Goong” means shrimp, and this version of Tom Yum features fresh shrimp in a vibrant, herbal broth.
This world-famous Thai soup is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. With lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, chili, and fish sauce, Tom Yum Goong Soup offers a perfect balance of spicy, sour, salty, and savory. It’s the kind of dish that energizes your senses while nourishing your body.
Why You’ll Love Tom Yum Goong
Looking for a comforting, exciting, and healthy soup? Tom Yum Goong is the answer. It’s naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, with a base of fresh herbs that provide anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting benefits.
Whether you enjoy bold spices or want to explore international flavors, this Thai shrimp soup is easy to make at home. It cooks in under 30 minutes and can be customized to your taste. Add a splash of coconut milk for a creamy twist or swap in other proteins like chicken or tofu.
Perfect as a light dinner or a flavorful appetizer, Tom Yum Goong brings Thai street food magic straight to your kitchen.
Health Benefits of Tom Yum Goong Soup
Tom Yum Goong is widely considered one of the healthiest Thai dishes. Its healing combination of herbs and lean protein supports both wellness and flavor.
What Makes It Healthy?
- Lemongrass, galangal, and kaffir lime leaves: These herbs fight inflammation, support digestion, and boost immunity.
- Shrimp: A lean protein source rich in iodine, vitamin B12, and selenium for metabolism and thyroid health.
- Thai chili: Stimulates appetite and digestion, and provides antioxidants.
- Low calorie and fat content: Makes it ideal for weight management and heart-healthy diets.
Things to Consider
While Tom Yum Goong Soup is healthy, there are a few tips for a cleaner version:
- Watch the sodium: Fish sauce adds flavor but can be high in salt. Use low-sodium versions or reduce the quantity if needed.
- Spice level: Adjust Thai chilies to your preference—this soup can be made mild or fiery hot.
Final Thoughts on This Thai Hot and Sour Shrimp Soup
Tom Yum Goong Soup offers a beautiful mix of spice, citrus, and herbal depth. It’s flavorful, fast, and incredibly good for you. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or serving guests, this dish is sure to impress.
Beyond taste, it delivers real health benefits—hydration, digestion support, and immune boosts—all in one comforting bowl. It’s an ideal choice for light lunches, cozy dinners, or a warming remedy when you’re feeling under the weather.
Try this authentic Thai soup once, and it might just become your new favorite.
