This tom kha soup is a spicy hot coconut soup. It typically includes key ingredients like coconut milk, limes, ginger, chili peppers, lemongrass, chicken, chicken broth, cilantro and mushrooms. ( 1) Authentic tom kha gai recipes include galangal and kaffir lime leaves.
This Thai coconut soup is a hearty and uplifting choice that gives you another option in addition to a more traditional chicken soup recipe. This tom khai gai recipe is the most delicious and comforting blend of sweet, salty and spicy.
Tom kha kai is easy to make. If you can smash things, cut things, and boil water, you can pull off this classic on the first try. The hardest part? Getting your hands on the essential fresh seasonings. Galangal (the ‘kha’ in tom kha kai), kaffir (or makrut) lime leaves, and lemongrass have come to define tom kha kai.
Make the Tom Kha Gai in an Instant Pot with chicken breast or chicken thighs, or cook it more authentically on the stovetop. Your choice! The instant pot version is very quick and easy- just put it all in the pot and set. When it’s done squeeze with fresh lime and serve in bowls. Feel free to add cilantro.