Spicy Thai Rice Soup, also known as "Khao Tom," is a flavorful and comforting breakfast option in Thailand. It's typically made with rice, chicken or pork, and a spicy and aromatic broth. A step-by-step guide on how to make Spicy Thai Rice Soup:
Ingredients:
For the Soup:
- 1 cup of jasmine rice
- 4 cups of chicken or pork broth
- 1 cup of cooked chicken or pork, shredded or diced
- 2-3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2-3 slices of ginger
- 1 stalk of lemongrass, cut into 2-inch pieces
- 3-4 kaffir lime leaves
- 2-3 Thai bird's eye chillies, crushed (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1-2 tablespoons of fish sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon of sugar
- Salt to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro leaves
- Sliced green onions
- Sliced fresh chilies (optional)
- Lime wedges
Instructions:
1. Rinse the Rice:
- Rinse the jasmine rice under cold running water until the water runs clear. Drain and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Broth:
- In a large pot, add the chicken or pork broth and bring it to a boil.
3. Add Rice and Aromatics:
- Add the rinsed jasmine rice, minced garlic, ginger slices, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and crushed Thai bird's eye chilies to the boiling broth. Stir well.
4. Simmer:
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and the soup has thickened.
5. Season:
- Add fish sauce, sugar, and salt to the soup. Adjust the seasoning to your taste, adding more fish sauce or salt if needed. Remove the lemongrass and ginger slices.
6. Add Chicken or Pork:
- Add the cooked and shredded/diced chicken or pork to the soup. Let it simmer for a few more minutes until the meat is heated through.
7. Serve:
- Ladle the Spicy Thai Rice Soup (Khao Tom) into bowls.
8. Garnish:
- Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, sliced green onions, and sliced fresh chillies if you like it extra spicy.
9. Serve with Lime:
- Serve the soup with lime wedges on the side. Squeeze some fresh lime juice into the soup just before eating for an extra zesty flavour.
Spicy Thai Rice Soup (Khao Tom) is a delicious and aromatic breakfast option, providing a perfect balance of spice, herbs, and protein. It's a great way to start your day or enjoy as a comforting meal anytime.