Do you love Thai cuisine but worry about calorie intake? Then 1 cup of Tom Yum Soup, a popular Thai soup, should be on your menu. A hot and sour soup loaded with exotic flavors, 1 cup of Tom Yum Soup contains only 121 calories making it an ideal fit for anyone looking to watch their calorie count.
Tom Yum Soup contains several ingredients that are rich in health benefits. The heat of the soup comes from the Thai bird's eye chili which is known to stimulate the digestive system and boost the metabolism. If you add lemongrass to the soup, it can help to lower high blood pressure and reduce inflammation. The kaffir lime helps to improve skin health and promote better digestion.
In this article, we'll explore how you can make your own Tom Yum Soup at home, its ingredients, the nutritional benefits, and some of the health concerns related to the soup.
What is Tom Yum Soup?
Tom Yum Soup is a popular Thai hot and sour soup made with broth, meat, herbs, and spices. The soup is known for its bold and exotic flavors and its health benefits. There are different variations of Tom Yum Soup based on the ingredients used, such as Tom Yum Goong (made with shrimp) and Tom Yum Gai (made with chicken). The soup is usually served with steamed jasmine rice and is a perfect fit for anyone looking to watch their calorie count. Tom Yum Soup is gluten-free, low in fat, and contains no MSG making it an ideal choice for anyone with dietary restrictions. Tom Yum Soup is now one of the most popular Thai dishes across the world, and its strong flavors and health benefits have made it a favorite for anyone looking to spice up their food.
How to Prepare Tom Yum Soup?
Preparing Tom Yum Soup is relatively easy and requires no complicated cooking techniques. The ingredients can be found in most grocery stores with an Asian section or at an Asian grocery store. Here is a simple recipe that you can follow: Ingredients: - 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth, 2 stalks of lemongrass, 4 kaffir lime leaves, 4 Thai bird's eye chilies, 3 cloves of garlic, 1 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms, 1/4 cup fish sauce, 2 tablespoons lime juice, 1 tablespoon brown sugar, 1/2 cup cooked shrimp or chicken, and fresh cilantro leaves to garnish.
What Are the Ingredients of Tom Yum Soup?
Tom Yum Soup contains a variety of ingredients that contribute to its bold and exotic flavors as well as its health benefits. The key ingredients include broth, meat or seafood, fresh herbs and spices, lime, and sugar. The ingredients used in Tom Yum Soup vary according to the region in Thailand it is made. Common ingredients include lemongrass, kaffir lime, Thai bird's eye chilies, garlic, ginger, mushrooms, fish sauce, and cilantro. Some of the meat or seafood options used in the soup include chicken, shrimp, pork, and fish. Once the ingredients are combined and simmered in a broth, the soup is flavored with lime juice and a small amount of sugar to balance out the sourness of the lime juice.
What Are the Nutritional Benefits of Tom Yum Soup?
Tom Yum Soup has several nutritional benefits that make it a healthy choice for anyone looking to add some spice to their meal. The soup is low in fat, gluten-free, and contains no MSG. When homemade, Tom Yum Soup can also contain wholesome ingredients, such as fresh herbs and vegetables, that are filled with antioxidants and vitamins. The soup's spicy kick comes from the Thai bird's eye chili which contains capsaicin, a compound that helps to boost the metabolism and stimulate the digestive system. The lemongrass in the soup is known to have anti-inflammatory and anti-fungal properties, while the kaffir lime has been found to improve digestion and boost the immune system. The soup's nutritional content depends on the recipe and ingredients used, but overall, Tom Yum Soup is a healthy and flavorful meal option that's both nourishing and satisfying.
How Many Calories Are in a Cup of Tom Yum Soup?
If you're counting calories, Tom Yum Soup is a great option for a healthy meal. A cup of Tom Yum Soup contains only 121 calories. The calorie count may vary depending on the ingredients used, such as the type of broth, meat or seafood, and sugar. For a low calorie and healthy meal, Tom Yum Soup is an excellent choice that can be enjoyed at any time of the day.
What Are the Different Varieties of Tom Yum Soup?
There are several variations of Tom Yum Soup based on the ingredients used. Some of the popular variations include:
How to Store and Reheat Tom Yum Soup?
Tom Yum Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, heat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat until it starts to simmer. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating. Avoid storing or reheating the soup in a microwave since the soup can quickly become overcooked and may lose its nutritional value as a result.
Can Tom Yum Soup Help with Weight Loss?
For those seeking to lose weight, Tom Yum Soup can be a valuable meal option since it is low in calories, fat, and carbohydrates. Additionally, the Thai bird's eye chili in the soup contains capsaicin which can increase metabolism and suppress appetite. The soup also contains fresh vegetables and herbs that are loaded with antioxidants and essential nutrients. Still, while the soup is high in nutritional value, it should be consumed in moderation and as part of a well-balanced diet. One should not rely on it as a sole source of nutrition.
While Tom Yum Soup is generally considered safe for consumption, there are some health concerns related to the soup. First, Tom Yum Soup contains a high amount of sodium which can be harmful to people with high blood pressure or kidney problems. Additionally, some ingredients in Tom Yum Soup, such as shrimp or chicken, could trigger allergies in people who are allergic to seafood or poultry. So, if you have any food allergies or concerns, it's best to check with your doctor before consuming Tom Yum Soup.
How Does Tom Yum Soup Compare to Other Thai Soups?
Tom Yum Soup has unique flavors and health benefits that set it apart from other Thai soups. Here is a comparison of Tom Yum Soup with other popular Thai soups: Overall, Tom Yum Soup is a healthy and flavorful meal option that's both nourishing and satisfying. Its unique flavors and health benefits make it a popular choice among people who love spicy food and want to stay healthy.
Tom Yum Soup is one of the most popular Thai dishes across the world, and its strong flavors and health benefits have made it a favorite for anyone looking to spice up their food.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tom Yum Soup
1. What is Tom Yum Soup?
Tom Yum Soup is a spicy and sour Thai soup that is typically made with shrimp or chicken. It's flavored with a blend of fresh herbs and spices, including lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, chili peppers, and fish sauce.
2. How many calories are in one cup of Tom Yum Soup?
One cup of Tom Yum Soup contains about 121 calories.
3. Is Tom Yum Soup healthy?
Tom Yum Soup can be a healthy choice as it's low in calories and rich in nutrients such as protein, fiber, and vitamin C. However, some versions may be high in sodium and sugar, so it's important to choose your ingredients carefully.
4. Can Tom Yum Soup be vegetarian or vegan?
Yes, Tom Yum Soup can be made vegetarian or vegan by using vegetable broth and omitting the meat and seafood. Tofu or mushrooms can be used as a substitute for protein.
5. What are some variations of Tom Yum Soup?
Some popular variations of Tom Yum Soup include Tom Yum Goong (with shrimp), Tom Yum Gai (with chicken), and Tom Yum Talay (with mixed seafood).