The Kaffir Lime Leaves are a unique exotic product!

Originating from Asia, where they are very popular, these leaves, which grow in pairs, have a refreshing and floral aroma and an explosive, persistent, and delicate citrus flavour.

Widely used in all types of Asian cuisine, they can be used in soups, curries, rice, but also in fish, pork, and chicken dishes, vegetarian dishes, or even for infusions and drinks, with or without alcohol.

Here is a recipe for you:

Recipe for Thai Chicken Soup with Coconut and Kaffir Lime Leaves (Tom Kha Gai)

Ingredients:

• 400g chicken breast, thinly sliced
• 400ml coconut milk (preferably neutral)
• 500ml chicken broth
• 3-4 kaffir lime leaves, torn into large pieces
• 2 stalks of lemongrass, cut into 5 cm pieces and smashed
• 3-4 slices of galangal (or ginger)
• 3-4 Thai chillies (or to taste), lightly smashed
• 200g mushrooms (shimeji, champignon, or shiitake), sliced
• 1 red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon palm sugar (or brown sugar)
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
• Coriander leaves for garnish
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
• Slice the chicken breast thinly and set aside.
• Tear the kaffir lime leaves into large pieces to release their aroma.
• Smash the lemongrass stalks and slice the galangal thinly.
2. Cook the Soup Base:
• In a large pot, add the chicken broth, coconut milk, kaffir lime leaves, lemongrass, galangal, and chillies.
• Heat over medium-high heat until it starts to boil. Reduce the heat and let it cook for about 10 minutes to allow the flavours to blend.
3. Add the Chicken and Mushrooms:
• Add the sliced chicken and mushrooms.
• Cook over low heat until the chicken is cooked, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Season the Soup:
• Add the red onion, fish sauce, and palm sugar to the soup.
• Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Adjust the Flavour:
• Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed.
• Add the lime juice, mixing well, and adjust the salt and pepper (if necessary).
6. Serve:
• Remove the pieces of lemongrass, galangal, and kaffir lime leaves before serving, if you prefer.
• Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh coriander leaves.

Tips:

• Adjusting Spiciness: If you prefer a less spicy soup, reduce the amount of chillies or remove them at the end.
• Vegetarian Alternative: Substitute the chicken with tofu and use vegetable broth.
• Accompaniments: This soup is deliciously served with jasmine rice.

Serving Suggestions:

• Jasmine Rice: A great accompaniment to absorb the savoury broth of the soup.
• Green Papaya Salad: For a complete and balanced meal, a fresh salad is an excellent choice.
• Chicken or Beef Satay: Marinated and grilled meat skewers make a great complementary dish.

Variations:

• Seafood: Add shrimp, prawns, or scallops for variety.

Try it out and let us know what you think! :)

If you also have recipes with Kaffir Lime Leaves, share them with us in the comments.