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

Ingredients
8 items — tap to check off
Missing one? Custrd suggests a swap that works.
Open the appInstructions
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.
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.
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.
Step 4
Slice 2 limes in half and squeeze the juice into the soup. Add 3 Thai chilies (smashed or sliced) and stir gently.
Step 5
Taste and adjust with more lime juice or fish sauce if needed. Serve hot, garnished with 0.5 cup fresh cilantro leaves.
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 an iPhone and Android app that finds real recipes from the ingredients you already have. No more grocery-list aspirations. Try it free for 7 days.



