Fancy Thai Shrimp

You're referring to "Tom Yum Goong"!

Tom Yum Goong is a popular Thai dish commonly found on menus in restaurants in the USA. Here's a breakdown of this flavorful and aromatic dish:

Name: Tom Yum Goong (ตอมยำกุ้ง)

Description: Spicy and sour soup made with shrimp, lemongrass, lime leaves, and mushrooms in a fragrant coconut milk-based broth.

Key Ingredients:

1. Shrimp (Goong): Fresh or frozen shrimp are typically used.

2. Lemongrass (Ta Krai): A aromatic, citrusy herb commonly used in Thai cuisine.

3. Lime Leaves (Bai Ma Kroot): Similar to bay leaves, these leaves add a citrusy flavor.

4. Mushrooms: Button mushrooms or cremini mushrooms are commonly used.

5. Tom Yum Paste: A blend of spices, including chilies, garlic, lemongrass, galangal, and shrimp paste.

6. Coconut Milk: Adds richness and creaminess to the soup.

7. Fish Sauce (Nam Pla): A salty, umami-rich condiment made from fermented fish and salt.

8. Lime Juice: Adds a sour and refreshing flavor.

9. Chilies: Thai bird's eye chilies or serrano peppers add heat to the dish.

10. Herbs: Fresh cilantro, basil, or Thai basil may be used as garnishes.

Preparation:

1. The shrimp are typically sautéed in oil until pink.

2. Aromatics like lemongrass, lime leaves, and mushrooms are added and sautéed until fragrant.

3. The tom yum paste is added and stir-fried until fragrant.

4. Coconut milk, fish sauce, and lime juice are added to create the flavorful broth.

5. The shrimp is returned to the pot, and the soup is simmered until the shrimp is cooked through.

6. Chilies, herbs, and additional seasonings may be added to taste.

Variations:

Now that you know more about Tom Yum Goong, I hope you enjoy ordering it at your favorite Thai restaurant or trying to make it at home!