Slow Cooker Tom Kha Soup (Thai Coconut Chicken Soup): A Warm, Comforting Thai Classic

Tom Kha Soup is a beloved Thai dish known for its rich, creamy texture and a perfect balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavors. This Slow Cooker Tom Kha Soup brings all the deliciousness of the classic Thai coconut chicken soup with the convenience of a slow cooker, making it an easy and comforting meal to prepare. Whether you’re new to Thai cuisine or a seasoned fan, this recipe will transport you to the heart of Thailand with every spoonful.

Ingredients

For the Soup:

• 1/2 onion, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, chopped
• 1/2 red jalapeño pepper, sliced (or a couple of Thai chiles, halved)
• 3 quarter-inch slices galangal or ginger
• 1 lemongrass stalk, pounded with the side of a knife, cut into 2-inch-long pieces
• 10 lime leaves, torn (optional)
• 1 tablespoon red curry paste
• 4 cups chicken broth (see Notes)
• 2 (13.5-ounce) cans full-fat coconut milk or coconut cream
• 2 small chicken breasts (approximately 1 pound), cut into bite-sized pieces (see Notes for alternatives)
• 8 ounces white mushroom caps, sliced
• 2-3 tablespoons brown sugar or coconut sugar (see Notes)
• 2-3 tablespoons fish sauce, plus more to taste
• 2-3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
• 2-3 green onions, thinly sliced
• Chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Aromatics

1. In your slow cooker, add the sliced onion, chopped garlic, sliced jalapeño or Thai chiles, galangal or ginger slices, lemongrass pieces, lime leaves (if using), and red curry paste.
2. Pour in the chicken broth and stir to combine the ingredients.
3. Cover the slow cooker with the lid.

Step 2: Cook the Base

1. Cook the mixture on high heat for 2 to 3 hours, or on low heat for 4 to 6 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together.
2. Once the cooking time is up, use a slotted spoon to remove all the aromatics (onion, garlic, chiles, ginger, lemongrass, and lime leaves), leaving only the flavorful broth behind.

Step 3: Add Coconut Milk and Chicken

1. Add the coconut milk or coconut cream, bite-sized chicken pieces (or tofu or shrimp, if using), and sliced mushrooms to the slow cooker.
2. Continue cooking on high heat for 1 hour, or on low heat for 2 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

Step 4: Season and Serve

1. After cooking, stir in the brown sugar, fish sauce, and lime juice.
2. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning by adding more sugar, fish sauce, or lime juice as desired to achieve the perfect balance of flavors.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Ladle the soup into serving bowls.
2. Top with sliced green onions and fresh cilantro.
3. Serve the soup warm, and enjoy the rich, creamy, and aromatic flavors of this Thai classic.

Quick Tips

• Protein Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of chicken, this soup works wonderfully with tofu, shrimp, or even a combination of seafood.
• Adjusting Spice Levels: If you prefer a milder soup, reduce the amount of red curry paste and chiles. For extra heat, add more red curry paste or an additional sliced chile.
• Vegetarian Option: To make this soup vegetarian, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and substitute fish sauce with soy sauce or tamari.

Nutritional Information

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 3-4 hours
• Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes to 4 hours 15 minutes
• Calories: 350 kcal per serving
• Servings: 4-6 servings

This Slow Cooker Tom Kha Soup is a delightful blend of creamy coconut, tangy lime, and fragrant spices. It’s an easy and convenient way to bring the flavors of Thailand into your kitchen, perfect for a cozy dinner at home. Whether you’re serving it as a starter or a main course, this soup is sure to impress with its complex and satisfying taste. Enjoy!

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