Welcome to the delicious world of Thai cuisine! Today, we’re diving into a flavorful recipe called Tom Yum Hed. This is a fantastic spicy and sour soup made with mushrooms, which makes it a delightful vegetarian option. Tom Yum Hed is part of the famous Tom Yum family, known for its bold flavors and aromatic ingredients.
This dish has a rich cultural background in Thailand and is loved by people all over the world. Traditionally, Tom Yum soup is prepared with shrimp or chicken, but the mushroom version brings a unique twist that many find appealing. One reason why Tom Yum Hed is so popular is its ability to warm you up while providing a fantastic mix of taste—spicy, sour, and fragrant. Ready to cook this fantastic dish? Let’s get started!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh mushrooms (like shiitake or oyster) | 200g |
| Vegetable broth | 4 cups |
| Lemongrass stalks | 2, cut into 1-inch pieces |
| Galangal or ginger | 1 inch, sliced |
| Bird’s eye chili peppers | 2-3, smashed |
| Lime juice | 3 tablespoons |
| Fish sauce or soy sauce | 2 tablespoons (for vegetarian: use soy sauce) |
| Cilantro leaves | For garnish |
| Sliced scallions | For garnish |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a large pot, bring the vegetable broth to a boil over medium heat.
- Add the lemongrass, galangal, and bird’s eye chili peppers to the pot. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes to release the flavors.
- Add the fresh mushrooms to the pot and cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until they are tender.
- Stir in the lime juice and fish sauce (or soy sauce) to season the soup. Taste and adjust the flavor if needed.
- Remove from heat, and let it cool for just a moment.
- Pour the soup into bowls and garnish with cilantro and sliced scallions before serving.
- Enjoy your warm and comforting bowl of Tom Yum Hed!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount | Daily Value (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 150 | 7% |
| Protein | 4g | 8% |
| Carbohydrates | 30g | 10% |
| Fats | 2g | 3% |
| Sodium | 600mg | 26% |
| Vitamin C | 10mg | 11% |
Tips and Tricks
- Customize Your Spice Level: If you love spicy food, feel free to add more chili peppers!
- Herb Variations: You can also add kaffir lime leaves for extra fragrance.
- Common Mistake: Don’t let the broth boil too fast after adding the mushrooms, or they can become tough.
- Storage Tip: Leftover soup can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
FAQs
1. What is Tom Yum Hed?
Tom Yum Hed is a spicy and sour Thai soup made primarily with mushrooms and aromatic herbs.
2. Can I make Tom Yum Hed without mushrooms?
While mushrooms are the star of this dish, you can substitute them with tofu for a different texture.
3. Is Tom Yum Hed vegan?
Yes! When using soy sauce instead of fish sauce, Tom Yum Hed is completely vegan.
4. How spicy is Tom Yum Hed?
The spice level can be adjusted by changing the amount of chili peppers. Feel free to start with one and add more if desired!
5. Can I use dried herbs?
Fresh herbs provide the best flavor, but you can use dried herbs in a pinch—just reduce the amount since they are more concentrated.
6. How do I store leftovers?
Store Tom Yum Hed in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
7. Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for more variety.
8. What do I serve with Tom Yum Hed?
This soup is great on its own, but you can serve it with rice or noodles for a heartier meal.
Now that you know all about making Tom Yum Hed, it’s time to gather your ingredients and enjoy this delightful Thai soup! Happy cooking!
