Easy Thai Coconut Soup Recipe | Cotter Crunch (2024)

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We Love Thai Coconut Soup!

Ever wondered what makes a good Thai Coconut Soup? Thai coconut soup, also known as tom kha kai, is a creamy Thai soup made with a creamy broth and coconut milk base. Made with fresh aromatics, veggies, and warm seasonings, it features an explosion of tastes and textures unlike anything else!

Bonus Nutrient Tip: Thai coconut soup typically contains a variety of nutrient-dense ingredients such as coconut milk (rich in healthy fats), vegetables (providing vitamins, minerals, and fiber), and optional protein sources like chicken, shrimp, or tofu.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Below is an overview of the ingredients and instructions to make this recipe. Be sure to scroll down to the recipe card below for the complete details and nutrition information!

• Oil – Use a neutral flavored oil such as avocado oil or light olive oil.
• Aromatics – Fresh ginger, garlic, and lemongrass stalks add a bright, zingy flavor to the soup. Find these in the produce section of your local grocery store!

Ingredient Swap: If you can’t find fresh lemongrass, feel free to substitute lemongrass paste instead.

• Asian Chili Paste – Adds a touch of heat. Adjust the amount used to suit your preferences.
• Curry Powder – Enhances the savory, tangy flavor.

Note: The type of chili paste and curry powder makes a difference in the flavor and spiciness of the soup. Use any kind you like best, and adjust the amount included to your liking. We used a mild curry powder because our chili paste was hot. However, you can also find hot curry powder such as Hot Madras Curry Powder if you prefer extra heat!

• Broth – Use organic broth, vegetable broth/stock, or chicken broth for the liquid base of the soup.
• Fish Sauce – This adds a touch of salty flavor. Feel free to substitute gluten-free soy sauce if preferred.
• Raw Sugar – This cuts some of the spice and savoriness, creating a well-rounded flavor.
• Coconut Milk – Use regular full fat or light canned coconut milk to add a sweet taste and create a creamy consistency.
• Mushroom Caps – Use white mushroom caps, and slice them into pieces.
• Lime Zest – Adds a vibrant note of citrus.

Note: Feel free to add cooked shrimp, shredded chicken, cooked chicken thighs, tempeh, or tofu to add protein and make this dish to make it even more filling!

How to Make This Easy Coconut Milk Soup Recipe

1. Sauté. Heat the oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Then, add the ginger, garlic, chili pasta, lemongrass, and curry powder. Cook, stirring frequently, until fragrant.
2. Simmer. Stir in the broth, sugar, and fish sauce, not letting the ingredients boil. Then, reduce the heat to low, and simmer.

3. Add the remaining ingredients. Mix in the coconut milk until the soup is creamy. Add the mushrooms and lime zest. Cook on low or medium-low heat until the vegetables are soft.

4. Serve. Stir in the fresh lime juice. Then, spoon the soup into bowls, add your garnishes of choice, and enjoy!

Topping Ideas

We love to load our Thai coconut soup up with all the best toppings! Some of our favorite options include:

• Chopped Scallions (Green Onions)
• Cilantro
• Lime Juice
• Thai Bird’s Eye Red Peppers
• Lime Wedges
• Thai Basil

More of Our Favorite

More Gluten-Free Soup Recipes

• Thai Curried Carrot Ginger Soup
• Gluten Free Chicken Pho Gha
• Curried Cauliflower Soup with Kale
• Creamy Vegan Mushroom Soup