Thai Coconut Soup from True Food Kitchen features a fragrant blend of creamy coconut milk, fresh lemongrass, galangal, and kaffir lime leaves, complemented by tender chicken and mushrooms, all simmered to create a flavorful and aromatic dish with a rich, milky broth garnished with vibrant cilantro and red chili slices.
Equipments
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Wooden spoon or heatproof spatula
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Fine mesh strainer (optional, for removing lemongrass/kaffir lime leaves)
- Ladle
- Bowls for serving
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 4 cups (960ml) coconut milk
- 2 cups (480ml) chicken broth
- 1 stalk lemongrass
- 2-inch piece galangal
- 4 kaffir lime leaves
- 8 oz (225g) mushrooms
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon coconut sugar
- 2 Thai red chilies
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro
- Salt, to taste
Fresh lemongrass, galangal, and kaffir lime leaves are essential for capturing the authentic flavors of Thai Coconut Soup; be sure to bruise the lemongrass and gently crush the galangal to release their aromas. Using full-fat coconut milk will achieve the soup's characteristic creamy and rich texture, while fresh chicken breast provides tender protein that cooks evenly in the broth. Fish sauce balances the soup's savory profile, and coconut sugar adds a subtle sweetness, perfectly harmonizing with the tang of fresh lime juice. Mushrooms contribute an earthy depth to the soup, and garnishing with cilantro and Thai red chilies adds vibrant color and a hint of heat. Your Thai Coconut Soup from True Food Kitchen copycat menu will deliver a fragrant, milky broth bursting with traditional Southeast Asian flavors.
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients: slice chicken breast thinly, cut mushrooms, finely chop cilantro, slice red chilies, bruise lemongrass, slice galangal, and tear kaffir lime leaves.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine coconut milk and chicken broth. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
- Add lemongrass, galangal, and kaffir lime leaves to the pot. Simmer for 5–10 minutes to infuse flavors.
- Add sliced chicken breast and mushrooms. Cook until chicken is just cooked through and mushrooms are tender, about 5–7 minutes.
- Stir in fish sauce, lime juice, and coconut sugar. Adjust salt and seasoning to taste.
- Remove and discard lemongrass, galangal, and kaffir lime leaves with a fine mesh strainer or slotted spoon.
- Ladle soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh cilantro and sliced red chilies.
- Serve hot.
Substitution
The Thai Coconut Soup from True Food Kitchen copycat menu offers a rich and aromatic broth combining coconut milk, lemongrass, galangal, and kaffir lime leaves with tender chicken and mushrooms. If you cannot find fresh galangal, ginger serves as a suitable substitute to maintain the warm, spicy flavor profile. Lemongrass can be replaced with lemon zest and a splash of lime juice for a similar citrusy aroma. You may use a fine mesh strainer to remove the fibrous lemongrass stalk and kaffir lime leaves for a smooth broth. Adjust the level of fish sauce and lime juice according to your taste preferences to balance savory and tangy notes.
Tips
Make sure to bruise the lemongrass and tear the kaffir lime leaves before adding them to the pot to release their full aroma and flavor. Keep the heat at a gentle simmer when cooking coconut milk to prevent it from curdling and losing its creamy texture. Cook the chicken just until opaque to maintain a tender texture and avoid overcooking. You can remove the flavoring herbs with a fine mesh strainer to ensure a smooth and clear broth while keeping the infused flavors intact.
Nutritions
Thai Coconut Soup from True Food Kitchen offers a nutrient-dense combination of protein-rich chicken breast and antioxidant-packed mushrooms, supporting muscle repair and immune health. The creamy coconut milk provides healthy medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) that may boost energy and metabolism, while lemongrass, galangal, and kaffir lime leaves contribute anti-inflammatory compounds and digestive benefits. You also gain a good dose of vitamin C and antioxidants from fresh cilantro and red chilies, enhancing overall nutrient absorption and immune function. This soup blends flavorful ingredients that nourish your body with essential vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats.
Storage
Store Thai Coconut Soup in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent absorption of other odors in your refrigerator. Cool the soup to room temperature before refrigerating, and consume within 3 to 4 days for the best flavor and safety. If you want to keep your soup longer, freezing it in portioned containers can extend its shelf life up to 2 months, but be mindful that the texture of coconut milk may change slightly upon thawing.
Variation or Alternatives
You can swap chicken breast with firm tofu or shrimp for a different protein option that still absorbs the aromatic broth well. Using coconut cream instead of coconut milk will yield a richer, creamier texture, enhancing the soup's indulgence. When fresh galangal or kaffir lime leaves are unavailable, substitute with ginger and lime zest to maintain a similar flavor profile. To make a lighter version, reduce the coconut milk and increase chicken broth, balancing with additional lime juice for tanginess.
Allergies
Your Thai Coconut Soup contains common allergens such as fish sauce, which may cause reactions in individuals allergic to seafood or fish products. Coconut milk is a tree nut allergen for some people, so it's important to check your sensitivity before consuming the soup. Additionally, ingredients like lemongrass and galangal can occasionally trigger allergies or intolerances, so always monitor for any adverse reactions.
Why this recipe?
True Food Kitchen's Thai Coconut Soup is loved for its perfect balance of creamy coconut milk, tangy lime, and bold Thai spices, creating a harmonious and refreshing flavor profile. The soup's fresh ingredients, including lemongrass, ginger, and kaffir lime leaves, deliver a vibrant taste that enhances both health and enjoyment. Your experience with this dish offers a satisfying, guilt-free indulgence rich in antioxidants and immune-boosting properties. Trying to make this copycat recipe allows you to recreate a nutritious and delicious meal that supports your wellness goals right at home.