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A bowl of vegetarian Tom Yum soup with mushrooms, tofu, lemongrass, Thai chilies, and fresh lime, served in a white ceramic bowl. The deep golden broth is highlighted by warm lighting, giving it a fresh and inviting appearance.

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.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Soup
Cuisine Thai
Servings 4 bowls

Equipment

  • Medium pot For simmering the broth
  • Knife For slicing herbs and vegetables
  • Strainer To remove aromatics before serving

Ingredients
  

  • 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

Instructions
 

  • 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.

Notes

  • 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
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