Vegetarian Tom Yum Soup
Vegetarian Tom Yum Soup delivers bold, spicy, and tangy flavors with a deeply aromatic broth infused with lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and Thai chilies. This plant-based version offers the same authentic taste without seafood or meat.
Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 20 minutes mins
Total Time 30 minutes mins
Medium pot For simmering the broth
Knife For slicing herbs and vegetables
Strainer To remove aromatics before serving
4 cups vegetable broth low sodium preferred 2 stalks lemongrass trimmed and sliced into rounds 3 pieces kaffir lime leaves torn to release flavor 1 inch galangal sliced thinly 2 Thai chilies crushed for extra heat 1 cup mushrooms sliced, button or shiitake 1 cup firm tofu cubed 2 tablespoons soy sauce adjust to taste 2 tablespoons lime juice freshly squeezed 1 tablespoon brown sugar balances flavors
In a medium pot, bring the vegetable broth to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
Add the lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, galangal, and Thai chilies. Let the broth simmer for 5-7 minutes to infuse flavors.
Stir in the mushrooms and cubed tofu. Let them cook for 5 more minutes until the mushrooms are tender.
Season with soy sauce and brown sugar, stirring well to combine.
Remove from heat and stir in fresh lime juice. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Strain out the lemongrass, lime leaves, and galangal before serving. Garnish with cilantro and serve hot.
For extra heat, add more Thai chilies or a teaspoon of chili paste.
If making ahead, store the broth separately from tofu and mushrooms to keep textures fresh.
Keyword easy tom yum, spicy Thai soup, vegetarian tom yum soup