Tom Kha Soup, a classic Thai coconut soup, is a perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and aromatic flavors. Traditionally made with coconut milk, lemongrass, galangal, and tender chicken, this slow cooker version makes it incredibly easy to enjoy a comforting bowl of authentic Thai flavors at home.
With minimal prep and a hands-off cooking process, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a warm, cozy meal. Let’s get started!
Ingredients
For the Soup Base:
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (13.5 oz) can full-fat coconut milk
- 2 stalks lemongrass (cut into 3-inch pieces and smashed)
- 1-inch piece fresh galangal or ginger (sliced)
- 3-4 kaffir lime leaves (torn into pieces)
- 3 tablespoons fish sauce
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon red curry paste (adjust to taste)
For the Protein & Veggies:
- 2 chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 8 oz mushrooms (sliced)
- 1 red bell pepper (thinly sliced)
- 2-3 Thai chilies (sliced, optional for spice)
For Garnishing:
- ½ cup fresh cilantro (chopped)
- 2 green onions (sliced)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Slow Cooker
- Add chicken broth, coconut milk, lemongrass, galangal (or ginger), kaffir lime leaves, fish sauce, lime juice, brown sugar, and red curry paste to the slow cooker.
- Stir well to combine.
2️⃣ Cook the Soup Base
- Cover and cook on LOW for 4 hours or HIGH for 2 hours to allow the flavors to develop.
3️⃣ Add Chicken & Vegetables
- After 4 hours, add chicken, mushrooms, bell pepper, and Thai chilies.
- Cook for an additional 1 hour on LOW or 30 minutes on HIGH, until the chicken is fully cooked and the vegetables are tender.
4️⃣ Final Touches
- Remove the lemongrass stalks and kaffir lime leaves.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with more lime juice or fish sauce if needed.
5️⃣ Garnish & Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with fresh cilantro and green onions.
- Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor.
Tips for the Best Tom Kha Soup
✔ Use fresh ingredients like lemongrass and kaffir lime leaves for the best authentic flavor.
✔ Substitutions: If you can’t find galangal, use fresh ginger. If kaffir lime leaves are unavailable, add extra lime zest.
✔ Make it vegetarian: Swap chicken for tofu and use vegetable broth instead.
✔ Serve with jasmine rice for a heartier meal.
Conclusion
This Slow Cooker Tom Kha Soup is a warm, creamy, and flavorful dish that’s easy to make at home. With rich coconut milk, citrusy lemongrass, and tender chicken, this soup is the perfect blend of Thai flavors. Try it for your next meal and enjoy an effortless, comforting bowl of deliciousness! 🥥🍜🔥
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