Tom Ka Recipe

Prepare the Meat

Cut the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. If using shrimp, peel and devein them.

Chop the Vegetables

Slice the mushrooms, chop the onion, and prepare the Thai basil leaves.

Prepare Aromatics

Bruise the lemongrass stalks with the back of a knife, slice the galangal into thin pieces, and tear the kaffir lime leaves into smaller pieces.

Cook the Aromatics

In a large pot, add the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Add the lemongrass, galangal, and kaffir lime leaves. Allow it to simmer for 10 minutes to infuse the flavors.

Add the Meat

Add the chicken pieces to the pot and let them cook for about 5 minutes, then add the shrimp. Cook until the shrimp turns pink.

Add the Vegetables

Stir in the sliced mushrooms and chopped onion. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Add Coconut Milk and Seasonings

Pour in the coconut milk and add the fish sauce, sugar, chili paste, and salt to taste. Stir well and let simmer for another 5 minutes.

Finish and Serve

Remove from heat, stir in the Thai basil leaves, and serve hot. Enjoy your Tom Ka!