Add the lime juice off the heat at the very end. Boiling fresh lime turns it flat and bitter; stirred in after the pot leaves the flame it stays bright and sharp, which is the sour half of hot-and-sour.
By Vince Gonzalez · Published July 2026 · Sourcing verified 5 Jul 2026
Prep15 min
Cook20 min
Makesserves 4
CuisineThai
Cost$$$
Gluten-freeDairy-free
Contains fish · shellfish
The Ingredients — and where to get them
Cook for4servings
Shrimp
Head-on if you can get them; the heads make the broth rich. Peel and save shells.
Can you make Tom Yum Goong in an air fryer? — Yes, with an insert
Not on its own — an air fryer can’t hold a pool of liquid. You can simmer it in an oven-safe dish or a silicone insert made to fit the basket, but the broth won’t reduce or brown the way it does on the stove, and that insert comes out scorching, so use oven mitts. For real depth, a pot on the stove wins.
Can you freeze Tom Yum Goong? — Yes
Yes — it freezes well. Cool it fully, portion into airtight containers, and it keeps a few months; thaw in the fridge and reheat gently.
Can you make Tom Yum Goong ahead of time? — Yes
Yes — it holds well and often tastes better the next day. Make it ahead and reheat gently before serving.
Is Tom Yum Goong gluten-free? — Yes
Yes — nothing in this recipe as written contains gluten. As always, glance at the labels on any packaged items (broth, sauces, chocolate), since brands vary.
Is Tom Yum Goong vegan? — No
No — it contains seafood, so it isn’t vegetarian or vegan.
Community Notes
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