A Guide to Thailand’s Most Iconic Soups

Mar 31

2 min read

Nothing showcases Thai cuisine better than its traditional soups. At Chilli Thai, we serve three of Thailand’s most beloved soups: Tom Yum, Tom Kha, and Po Tak. Each of these soups has its own unique taste, aroma, and ingredients, but they all share the same balance of spicy, sour, and savory flavors that make Thai cuisine flavorful.

Plates of rice, spring rolls, shrimp soup, stir-fry noodles, and green curry are arranged on a dark table with cutlery and a napkin.

If you’ve ever wondered about the differences between these three iconic soups, here’s a closer look at what makes each one special and which might be perfect for your next meal.

The Classic Thai Hot & Sour Soup: Tom Yum

One of Thailand’s most famous dishes, Tom Yum is a spicy and sour soup that packs a flavorful punch. This soup is known for its fragrant broth infused with Thai herbs like lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and galangal. It’s typically made with shrimp (Tom Yum Goong) or chicken (Tom Yum Gai), but variations with seafood or mushrooms are also popular.

Bowl of spicy shrimp soup with lemongrass, garnished with herbs. Lemongrass, lime, and chilies in background on wooden table.

Tom Yum is perfect for spice lovers who enjoy bright, citrusy flavors with a hint of heat. Its light, broth-based consistency makes it a refreshing yet bold dish.

A Creamy, Coconut-Based Thai Soup: Tom Kha

If you love the flavors of Tom Yum but prefer something richer and creamier, Tom Kha is the perfect choice. This soup features the same Thai herbs as Tom Yum but is made with coconut milk, which gives it a velvety texture and balances the heat with a touch of sweetness. The most common version is Tom Kha Gai (chicken coconut soup), but shrimp or tofu variations are also popular.

Creamy Tom Kha soup in a white bowl with chicken, sliced vegetables, red chili, and cilantro garnish on top, set against a plain background.

Tom Kha is ideal for those who enjoy Thai flavors but want a milder, creamier soup. The coconut milk helps tone down the spice while adding depth to the dish.

The Ultimate Spicy Thai Seafood Soup: Po Tak

For those who crave a bolder, spicier soup with a rich seafood flavor, Po Tak is a must-try. Unlike Tom Yum and Tom Kha, Po Tak is a clear, herb-infused broth known for its intense heat and strong seafood aroma. It's typically made with a mix of seafood like shrimp, squid, and mussels, creating a complex and flavorful dish.

Spicy seafood soup in a metal pot with squid rings, herbs, and chili peppers. The setting is a neutral gray background.

Po Tak is perfect for seafood lovers who enjoy bold, spicy flavors. The clear broth allows the natural flavors of the seafood and Thai herbs to shine, creating an intensely aromatic and satisfying soup.

Which One Should You Choose?

Feature	Tom Yum	Tom Kha	Po Tak
Base	Clear, herb-infused broth	Coconut milk-based broth	Clear, extra-spicy seafood broth
Main Flavor	Spicy, sour, herbal	Creamy, mildly spicy, slightly sweet	Very spicy, seafood-forward
Protein	Shrimp, chicken, or mushrooms	Chicken, shrimp, or tofu	Mixed seafood (shrimp, squid, mussels)
Best For	Fans of spicy, tangy flavors	Those who prefer mild, creamy soups	Seafood lovers who enjoy bold spice

At Chilli Thai, we prepare each of these soups with fresh ingredients and authentic Thai spices to bring you a true Taste of Thailand. Visit us and discover why these classic Thai soups are loved all over the world! Which one will you try first?