Jamal_
Tasty Apprentice
Hey, comfort food seekers! Let's cozy up with a comforting bowl of Khao Tom, a classic Thai rice soup that's perfect for any time of day. This simple and nourishing dish features tender rice in a flavorful broth, complemented by your choice of protein and aromatic herbs. Let's dive into this comforting recipe together!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup jasmine rice
- 6 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 200g ground pork or chicken (optional)
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon white pepper
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1-2 eggs (optional)
- Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions:
- Cook the Rice:
- Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain and set aside.
- In a large pot, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Add the rice and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook until the rice is tender and the broth has thickened slightly, about 20-25 minutes.
- Prepare the Protein (Optional):
- If using ground pork or chicken, heat a bit of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and stir-fry until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add the ground meat and cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it up into small pieces, about 5-7 minutes. Set aside.
- Season the Soup:
- Add the cooked ground meat (if using) to the pot with the rice and broth.
- Stir in fish sauce, soy sauce, and white pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Add Green Onions and Herbs:
- Stir in the chopped green onions and fresh cilantro.
- Optional Poached Eggs:
- If you'd like to add eggs, crack them directly into the soup during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Let them poach gently in the simmering soup until the whites are set but the yolks are still runny.
- Serve:
- Ladle the Khao Tom into serving bowls. Garnish with additional cilantro and green onions. Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor.
Serving Suggestion:
- Enjoy Khao Tom as a hearty breakfast, a soothing lunch, or a light dinner. This versatile and comforting soup is perfect for any occasion and can be easily customized with your favorite proteins and vegetables.