Dear Lykkers! Tom Yam Goong, or Thai shrimp soup, is a flavorful and aromatic dish that combines fresh herbs, spices, and seafood.

Known for its vibrant balance of spicy, sour, salty, and sweet flavors, it is one of Thailand’s most beloved culinary treasures. Let's explore the origins of this dish and a recipe to create Tom Yam Goong at home.

History of Tom Yam Goong

Tom Yam Goong is rooted in traditional Thai cuisine, believed to have originated in Central Thailand near the Chao Phraya River, where freshwater shrimp were plentiful. The word tom means “boiling,” yam refers to the “mixing” of flavors, and goong means “shrimp.” Historically, Tom Yam was not always made with shrimp; it was originally a more general soup made with local herbs and ingredients like lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, galangal, and chili peppers. The addition of shrimp (or goong) to the dish transformed it, giving it a rich flavor and making it a unique delicacy.

This soup became popular because it highlighted the signature flavors of Thai cuisine and could be made with easily accessible ingredients. Today, Tom Yam Goong has evolved with modern variations, including a creamy version that uses coconut milk or evaporated milk.

Tom Yam Goong Recipe

Ingredients

Shrimp: 8–10 large shrimp, peeled and deveined

Broth: 3 cups of water or chicken broth

Herbs and Aromatics:

3 stalks of lemongrass (cut into 2-inch pieces)

3–4 slices of galangal

5–6 kaffir lime leaves (torn)

Vegetables:

1 cup mushrooms (straw mushrooms or oyster mushrooms work best)

2–3 Thai chilies (sliced for extra spice)

Seasoning:

2–3 tbsp fish sauce

2 tbsp lime juice

1–2 tsp sugar

2 tbsp Thai chili paste (Nam Prik Pao, optional for added flavor)

Garnish:

Fresh cilantro

Additional lime wedges (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Broth

In a pot, bring water or broth to a boil. Add lemongrass, galangal, and kaffir lime leaves, simmering for 5–7 minutes to infuse the broth with flavor.

Step 2: Add Mushrooms and Seasonings

Add mushrooms and cook until softened. Then add fish sauce, lime juice, and sugar. If using chili paste, add it to the soup for extra depth and color.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Add shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, which usually takes only a couple of minutes.

Step 4: Adjust Seasoning

Taste and adjust the balance of salty, sour, and sweet flavors by adding more fish sauce, lime juice, or sugar as needed.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Serve the soup hot with fresh cilantro and extra lime wedges. For added spice, add more Thai chilies or a sprinkle of chili flakes.

Tom Yam Goong is more than just a soup; it's a culinary experience that captures the essence of Thai cuisine. By mastering this recipe, you can enjoy the authentic taste of Thailand’s vibrant food culture right in your own kitchen. Either enjoyed as an appetizer or a main dish, Tom Yam Goong offers a warm, satisfying bowl of flavors that’s hard to beat. Its rich history and delicious taste make it a dish worthy of any occasion.