Name: Thai Spicy & Sour Beef Tom Yum
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 200g thinly sliced beef; 3 cups water or chicken broth; 1 stalk lemongrass, smashed; 3 kaffir lime leaves; 1 small piece galangal, sliced; 1 cup mixed mushrooms; 1 small onion, sliced; 2 tbsp Thai chili paste (Nam Prik Pao); 2 tbsp fish sauce; 1 tbsp lime juice; 2–3 Thai chilies, crushed; 1 tsp sugar; Lime slices, for garnish

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Thai Spicy & Sour Beef Tom Yum is a vibrant, aromatic soup that embodies the bold flavors of Thailand. With tender beef slices, earthy mushrooms, and a broth infused with lemongrass, galangal, and kaffir lime, this soup is both invigorating and comforting. Balanced by the heat of Thai chilies and the tang of fresh lime, it’s a must-try for lovers of Southeast Asian cuisine.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Tom Yum variation is quick, deeply flavorful, and rich in authentic Thai aromatics. The combination of spicy, sour, salty, and umami notes in the broth makes every spoonful exciting. Thinly sliced beef adds protein and richness, while mushrooms and onions bring texture and depth. Ready in just 25 minutes, this dish delivers restaurant-quality flavor in the comfort of your home.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

thinly sliced beef
water or chicken broth
lemongrass, smashed
kaffir lime leaves
galangal, sliced
mixed mushrooms
onion, sliced
Thai chili paste (Nam Prik Pao)
fish sauce
lime juice
Thai chilies, crushed
sugar
lime slices (for garnish)

Directions

In a medium pot, bring the water or chicken broth to a boil. Add the smashed lemongrass, sliced galangal, and kaffir lime leaves. Simmer for 5 minutes to infuse the broth.
Add the sliced onion and mushrooms. Simmer for another 5 minutes until vegetables are tender.
Stir in the Thai chili paste, fish sauce, lime juice, and sugar. Add the crushed Thai chilies and mix well.
Add the thinly sliced beef and cook gently for 2–3 minutes, or until the beef is just cooked through.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed — adding more fish sauce for saltiness, lime juice for acidity, or chili paste for heat.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh lime slices.

Servings and timing

Servings: 2 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Calories: 310 kcal per serving

Variations

Seafood Tom Yum: Replace beef with shrimp, squid, or fish for a classic seafood variation.
Creamy Version: Stir in a few tablespoons of evaporated milk or coconut milk for a creamier, richer broth.
Vegetarian Option: Use tofu instead of beef and vegetable broth in place of chicken broth. Omit fish sauce or use soy sauce.
Rice Noodle Addition: Add cooked rice noodles for a more filling meal.
Herb Finish: Garnish with chopped cilantro or Thai basil for added aroma.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a saucepan over medium heat. Avoid boiling the soup during reheating to keep the beef tender.

FAQs

What is Tom Yum?

Tom Yum is a traditional Thai soup known for its hot and sour flavors, typically made with lemongrass, kaffir lime, chili paste, and a protein like shrimp or beef.

Can I use other cuts of beef?

Yes, use any thinly sliced tender cut such as sirloin or ribeye for quick cooking and tenderness.

Where can I find Thai chili paste?

Nam Prik Pao (Thai chili paste) is available in Asian markets or online. Look for jars labeled “roasted chili paste.”

Can I use dried herbs if fresh ones aren’t available?

Fresh is ideal, but dried lemongrass and galangal can be used in smaller amounts. Rehydrate before adding to the soup.

How spicy is this soup?

It can be quite spicy depending on the amount of chili used. Adjust the number of Thai chilies to your heat preference.

What mushrooms work best?

Straw mushrooms, oyster mushrooms, or white button mushrooms all work well in this recipe.

Is fish sauce essential?

It provides the signature umami and saltiness, but you can substitute soy sauce or tamari if needed.

Can I freeze Tom Yum?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but the broth (without beef or mushrooms) can be frozen for up to a month.

What do I serve with Tom Yum?

Serve on its own or alongside jasmine rice for a heartier meal.

How do I prevent the beef from becoming tough?

Add the beef last and cook only until just done to keep it tender.

Conclusion

Thai Spicy & Sour Beef Tom Yum is a bold, aromatic soup that captures the essence of Thai cooking. With its spicy heat, tangy lime, savory beef, and fragrant herbs, it’s a deeply satisfying dish that’s both comforting and invigorating. Whether you’re a seasoned Thai food lover or exploring new flavors, this soup is a flavorful and quick meal that’s sure to warm you from the inside out.

Thai Spicy & Sour Beef Tom Yum

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A bold and aromatic Thai soup with tender beef slices, mushrooms, and lemongrass in a rich, spicy, and tangy Tom Yum broth.

Author: Mari
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 2 servings 1x
Category: Soup
Method: Simmering
Cuisine: Thai
Diet: Halal

Instructions

In a pot, bring the water or chicken broth to a boil. Add lemongrass, galangal, and kaffir lime leaves. Simmer for 3–4 minutes to infuse the flavors.
Add the sliced onion and mixed mushrooms. Continue to simmer for 5 minutes until vegetables are tender.
Stir in Thai chili paste, fish sauce, lime juice, crushed Thai chilies, and sugar. Mix well and adjust to taste.
Add the thinly sliced beef and simmer for 2–3 minutes, or until beef is just cooked through.
Check seasoning and adjust fish sauce, lime juice, or chili for desired flavor balance.
Serve hot, garnished with lime slices.