Main Course

Slow Cooker Tom Kha Soup – Grandma’s Tasty Recipes

Name: Slow Cooker Tom Kha Soup – Grandma’s Tasty Recipes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 4 min
Total time: 19 min
Yield: 8
Ingredients: 4 cups cooked chicken, chopped or shredded; 8 ounces fresh white mushrooms, thinly sliced; 5 tablespoons Thai red curry paste; 28 ounces creamy full-fat coconut milk; 2 tablespoons lemongrass paste or finely minced lemongrass; 1 tablespoon fish sauce; 1 of Juice fresh lime; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves; 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger; Sea salt, to taste; Black pepper, freshly ground, to taste

Willie Regan September 14, 2025

Servings: 8 Total Time: 19 mins Difficulty: Intermediate

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Before diving into the details of this delightful dish, let’s talk pairings. The lush, aromatic soup has a unique combination of spicy, sour, salty, and sweet flavors that makes it perfect for several meal companions.

Consider serving it with a fluffy mound of jasmine rice for a complete meal. The rice absorbs the soup’s rich flavors, providing a wonderful texture contrast. A side of fresh spring rolls adds a crispy, light element. If you’re looking for something extra, crispy wonton chips can add that satisfying crunch.

A simple green salad with a citrus vinaigrette complements tom kha beautifully, balancing its heartiness. Lastly, a light beverage like iced lemongrass tea will keep your palate refreshed between bites.

Growing up, the scent of herbs and spices brought nothing short of warmth to my family’s kitchen. One soup that brings back vivid memories is tom kha. It’s comforting and makes me feel right at home. I often experimented with this classic Thai recipe in my slow cooker—because let’s face it, who doesn’t love a one-pot meal? It’s not just easy; it tastes like pure magic, wafting through your house.

Tom kha is a coconut-based soup with a tantalizing mix of flavors that hits every note in the culinary scale. Imagine this: a rich base of creamy coconut milk, with hints of ginger, lime, and a kick of chili pepper. It’s nourishing, fragrant, and perfect for gatherings.

What is Slow Cooker Tom Kha Soup?

Slow cooker tom kha soup is a simplified version of traditional Thai tom kha, designed for the convenience of a busy lifestyle. This recipe takes classic Thai ingredients—like coconut milk, lemongrass, and galangal—and blends them effortlessly with chicken or vegetables in a slow cooker.

What makes it shine is its combination of bold flavors. You get the heat from the red curry paste, the essential umami from fish sauce, and the brightness from fresh lime juice. No need to be a master chef; tossing everything in and letting it simmer is all it takes.

What is the Flavor Profile of This Dish?

The flavor profile of tom kha is a beautiful medley. Coconut milk provides a creamy sweetness, which contrasts with the spicy red curry. The lemongrass and ginger add brightness and warmth, while the fish sauce introduces umami depth.

Every spoonful offers a delightful balance, presenting spicy and sour notes in harmony. If you’ve ever had tom kha at a restaurant, you’ll notice this home-cooked version brings that same authenticity, often with fresher tastes since it’s made from scratch right in your home.

Why You’ll Love This

You will adore this slow cooker tom kha soup because it stands out for various reasons. First, it’s straightforward to prepare. Just chop the ingredients, toss them in, and let your slow cooker work its magic.

Second, it is versatile. Love mushrooms? Add extra. Prefer tofu over chicken? Go for it! Third, this soup is perfect for meal prep. Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.

What’s more, it bursts with nourishment. The use of fresh ingredients—like ginger and cilantro—ensures each bowl is not just delicious but also packed with nutrients. Plus, it brings comfort and warmth, ideal for chilly evenings.

Ingredients

4 cups cooked chicken, chopped or shredded
8 ounces fresh white mushrooms, thinly sliced
5 tablespoons Thai red curry paste (adjust heat to taste)
28 ounces creamy full-fat coconut milk (two 14-ounce cans)
2 tablespoons lemongrass paste or finely minced lemongrass
1 tablespoon fish sauce (adds umami depth)
Juice of 1 fresh lime
4 cups chicken broth (preferably low-sodium)
1 cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves
1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (for warmth and brightness)
Sea salt, to taste
Black pepper, freshly ground, to taste

Step by Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Start by chopping your cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces. If you’re using rotisserie chicken—great choice! It saves time and adds flavor. Set the chicken aside while you prepare the other ingredients.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

Slice the mushrooms finely. This will allow them to absorb the flavors as they cook. Next, use either lemongrass paste for convenience or finely mince fresh lemongrass if you’re feeling enthusiastic.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

In your slow cooker, combine the cooked chicken, sliced mushrooms, Thai red curry paste, coconut milk, lemongrass, fish sauce, lime juice, and chicken broth. Stir everything gently to mix.

Step 4: Add Aromatics

Now, grate the fresh ginger and add it to the pot. This will provide an extra layer of flavor. Season with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Feel free to add more red curry paste if you like your soup spicy.

Step 5: Slow Cook

Set your slow cooker to low and let it work its magic for about 4 to 6 hours, or on high for 2 to 3 hours. The longer it cooks, the more the flavors meld. Trust me, you’ll want to let it simmer for a while!

Step 6: Finish with Fresh Herbs

Once the cooking time is up, stir in the chopped cilantro. Taste to adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, and don’t forget that jasmine rice on the side!

Tips & Tricks

Balance the Flavors: If the soup seems too spicy, add a bit more coconut milk to balance it out.
Make it Vegetarian: Swap the chicken for firm tofu or extra tofu and use vegetable broth.
Freshness is Key: Using fresh herbs makes a difference. Always use fresh cilantro and lime juice for the best flavor.
Storage: This soup stores well. You can divide into portions and refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze for longer storage.
Garnish Ideas: Top your bowl with extra cilantro, lime wedges, or sliced chili for crunch and visual appeal.

Nutrition Information

For a serving of this delicious soup, expect approximately:

Calories: 350
Protein: 27g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fat: 22g
Fiber: 2g

Nutrition values will vary based on ingredients used, especially if you adjust the proportions or include different types of proteins.

How Can You Store This Slow Cooker Tom Kha Soup?

You can absolutely store this soup! First, allow it to cool completely. Transfer it into airtight containers. The soup can be kept in the fridge for up to 5 days.

If you want to store it for a longer time, consider freezing it. Place portions into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving space for expansion. It will keep for about 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat.

Ingredient Alternatives

If you can’t find certain ingredients, don’t fret! Here are a few substitutions:

Chicken: Use shrimp or tofu for a different protein. Shrimp cooks quickly, so add it in the last 30 minutes of cooking to keep it tender.
Coconut milk: If coconut milk isn’t available, try cashew cream for a creamy texture—though the flavor profile will differ slightly.
Fish sauce: If you prefer a vegetarian option, use soy sauce or miso paste to provide that umami flavor, keeping in mind it will alter the final taste slightly.

Conclusion

Now that you have this slow cooker tom kha soup recipe at your fingertips, it’s time to gather your ingredients and unleash your inner chef. The process is simple, and the result is utterly delightful.

As you stir that creamy, fragrant soup, you’re not just cooking—you’re crafting a meal filled with love and comfort. Whether you’re cozying up on a cold evening or impressing friends at a dinner gathering, this soup is sure to wow all whom you serve.

So, go ahead and indulge. Fill your bowl to the brim and savor every bite. It’s more than a meal; it’s an experience worth sharing!

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Print Recipe

Slow Cooker Tom Kha Soup – Grandma’s Tasty Recipes

Author: Willie Regan Cuisine: Thai Courses: Main Course

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 15 mins Cook Time 4 mins Total Time 19 mins

Servings: 8 Calories: 350

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

Growing up, the scent of herbs and spices brought nothing short of warmth to my family’s kitchen. One soup that brings back vivid memories is tom kha. It’s comforting and makes me feel right at home. I often experimented with this classic Thai recipe in my slow cooker—because let's face it, who doesn’t love a one-pot meal? It’s not just easy; it tastes like pure magic, wafting through your house.

Tom kha is a coconut-based soup with a tantalizing mix of flavors that hits every note in the culinary scale. Imagine this: a rich base of creamy coconut milk, with hints of ginger, lime, and a kick of chili pepper. It's nourishing, fragrant, and perfect for gatherings.