Custrd is out on the App Store — Download it free →
Back to recipes

Tom Yum Pla

A fragrant Thai hot and sour fish soup with lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and fresh herbs. This version is simplified for a weeknight but still delivers the classic bright, spicy, and tangy flavors.

Total time
30 min
Servings
4
Calories
180
Protein
28g
Tom Yum Pla
ComfortingWarmingThaiGluten-FreeDairy-FreeFishBrothyTender

Ingredients

8 items — tap to check off

Missing one? Custrd suggests a swap that works.

Open the app

Instructions

  1. Step 1

    Cut the 1 lb fish fillets into 1-inch chunks and set aside. Slice the 2 lemongrass stalks into 2-inch pieces and smash them lightly with the side of a knife.

  2. Step 2

    In a pot, bring 4 cups water to a boil. Add the smashed lemongrass and 4 kaffir lime leaves, reduce heat to medium, and simmer for 5 minutes until fragrant.

  3. Step 3

    Add the fish chunks and 3 tbsp fish sauce. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.

  4. Step 4

    Slice 2 limes in half and squeeze the juice into the soup. Add 3 Thai chilies (smashed or sliced) and stir gently.

  5. Step 5

    Taste and adjust with more lime juice or fish sauce if needed. Serve hot, garnished with 0.5 cup fresh cilantro leaves.

  6. Step 6

    Optional: add sliced mushrooms or cherry tomatoes with the fish for extra texture.

Tools you’ll need

  • Large pot
  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Measuring spoons
  • Citrus juicer (optional)

Cook smarter

Get matched recipes for what’s in your fridge

Custrd is a free iOS app that finds real recipes from the ingredients you already have. No more grocery-list aspirations.