Coconut soup with chicken – Tom Kha Kai

Coconut Soup

Tom kha kai (Thai: ต้มข่าไก่) is a soup dish from Laotian and Thai cuisine. The name literally means Chicken galangal soup. The dish is composed of coconut milk, galangal (ginger family), lemongrass and chicken. Peppers, bamboo, mushrooms and coriander can be added if desired.

This soup combines the creaminess of coconut milk with the spice of red chili peppers and the tartness of lime. Other key ingredients include lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves and, of course, galangal. These ingredients give the soup a distinctive flavor that is both warming and refreshing.

Origin and history

Tom Kha Kai has its origins in the north of Thailand. Although the exact origins are difficult to trace, it is known that for centuries the inhabitants of this region have taken advantage of the abundant sources of coconuts and local herbs such as galangal, lemongrass and kaffir lime. Over time, the soup has spread to other parts of Thailand and has become an essential part of Thai cuisine.

Early versions of Tom Kha were probably simpler and may not have had chicken or other proteins. The addition of kip (kai) and its evolution to its current form is likely the result of cultural exchange and the influences of neighboring regions.

Flavor profiles

Tom Kha Kai has a complex flavor profile that embodies the five fundamental flavors of Thai cuisine: sweet, salty, sour, bitter and umami.

1. Sweet: Comes from coconut milk and sometimes sugar. The coconut milk also adds a creamy texture that gives the soup its rich mouthfeel.
2. Salt: Usually introduced by fish sauce, an essential ingredient in many Thai dishes.
3. Pickles: Fresh lime juice and sometimes tamarind provide a refreshing contrast to the creaminess of the coconut milk.
4. Bitter: The bitterness is subtle and often comes from the roots and herbs such as galangal and lemongrass.
5. umami: The chicken stock, chicken and fish sauce contribute to the deep umami character of the soup.

The combination of these flavors with aromatic herbs such as lemongrass, galangal and kaffir lime leaves creates a unique and unmistakable taste. The use of fresh ingredients and the balance of flavors is crucial to preparing an authentic Tom Kha Kai.

Recipe for Tom Kha Kai

Ingredients:

1. 300 grams chicken fillet, cut into pieces
2. 400 ml coconut milk
3. 300 ml chicken
4. 1 stalk lemongrass, cut and crushed
5. 3-4 kaffir lime leaves, torn
6. 1 piece galangal (about 5 cm), thinly sliced
7. 2-3 red chili peppers, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
8. 2-3 tablespoons fish sauce (adjust to taste)
9. 1-2 teaspoons of sugar
10. The juice of 1 lime
11. Fresh coriander for garnish

Preparation method:

1. Bring the chicken stock to a boil in a large saucepan.
2. Add the lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves and chili peppers. Simmer for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
3. Add the chicken pieces and cook until done.
4. Add the coconut milk, fish sauce and sugar. Stir well and bring it back to the boil.
5. Once the chicken is cooked and the soup is well seasoned, remove from the heat and add the lime juice.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional fish sauce, sugar or lime juice if necessary.
7. Serve warm and garnish with fresh coriander.

Tom Kha Kai is loved both in Thailand and internationally for its complex yet harmonious flavor profile. It is commonly found in Thai restaurants around the world.

Enjoy your meal!