Kao Tom Gai

Kao Tom Gai Recipe - Chinese and Thai-inspired dish with chicken and rice

Region / culture: China, Thailand | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour and 10 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Kao Tom Gai is a traditional Thai rice soup dish that is both comforting and flavorful. This dish is perfect for a cozy night in or as a light and healthy meal option.

History

Kao Tom Gai has been a staple in Thai cuisine for centuries. It is often served as a breakfast dish or as a late-night snack. The combination of rice, chicken, and aromatic herbs and spices makes this dish a favorite among many Thai households.

Ingredients

1 cup of short-grain rice
8 cups of water
1 tsp of salt
2 lb (907 g) of boneless skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
3 tbsp of fresh lime juice (mixed with 1 tsp of salt)
2 tbsp of vegetable oil
0.5 cup of finely chopped onions
1.5 tsp of minced garlic
1 tbsp of white pepper (or to taste)
0.25 cup of chopped green onions
0.25 cup of chopped celery leaves
0.25 cup of chopped fresh cilantro

How to prepare

In a medium-sized pot, simmer rice, water, and salt over low heat for approximately one hour until the rice is soft.
Marinate the chicken in lime juice and salt for about 5 minutes.
In a skillet, heat oil and sauté onion and garlic until tender. Then, add white pepper and the marinated chicken.
Cook and stir for approximately 10 minutes.
In small bowls, place 1 cup of heated rice broth and sprinkle with chicken, chopped green onion, celery leaves, and cilantro.

Variations

For a vegetarian option, you can substitute the chicken with tofu or mushrooms.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to simmer the rice slowly to ensure that it becomes soft and tender.

- Marinating the chicken in lime juice and salt adds a tangy and savory flavor to the dish.

- Sautéing the onions and garlic before adding the chicken helps to build layers of flavor in the soup.

Serving Suggestions

Kao Tom Gai can be served with a side of fresh herbs, lime wedges, and chili sauce for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Simmering the rice slowly and marinating the chicken are key cooking techniques for this dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use brown rice instead of white rice for a healthier option.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the rice and marinate the chicken ahead of time for a quick and easy meal.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Kao Tom Gai in individual bowls garnished with fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Kao Tom Gai pairs well with a side of stir-fried vegetables or a light salad.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Kao Tom Gai contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Kao Tom Gai contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Kao Tom Gai contains approximately 10 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Kao Tom Gai contains approximately 25 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Kao Tom Gai is rich in vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, vitamin A, iron, and calcium.

Alergens

Kao Tom Gai contains soy and gluten.

Summary

Kao Tom Gai is a nutritious and balanced meal option that is rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals.

Summary

Kao Tom Gai is a delicious and nutritious Thai rice soup dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its flavorful broth, tender chicken, and aromatic herbs, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is etched in my memory forever. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Nok in her cozy little kitchen in Bangkok. Nok was a talented cook and always had a new dish to share with me whenever I came over. On this particular day, she had prepared a delicious and comforting bowl of Kao Tom Gai, a traditional Thai rice porridge with chicken.

As I took my first bite of the fragrant and flavorful porridge, I knew I had to learn how to make it myself. Nok was more than happy to teach me her family recipe, which had been passed down through generations. She guided me through each step, explaining the importance of using the freshest ingredients and cooking with love and care.

The key to making a perfect Kao Tom Gai, Nok told me, was in the broth. She simmered a whole chicken with ginger, garlic, and lemongrass until the meat was tender and infused with the rich flavors of the aromatics. The broth was then strained and used as the base for the porridge, giving it a depth of flavor that was truly unforgettable.

Next came the rice, which was cooked until soft and creamy in the fragrant broth. Nok added shredded chicken, mushrooms, and sliced green onions to the porridge, along with a splash of fish sauce and a squeeze of lime juice for a touch of brightness. The final touch was a sprinkling of crispy fried garlic and fresh cilantro, adding a burst of flavor and texture to the dish.

As I sat down to enjoy my own bowl of Kao Tom Gai, I felt a sense of pride and accomplishment. I had learned a new recipe that was not only delicious but also a connection to my friend and her heritage. I knew that this dish would become a staple in my own kitchen, a way to bring a taste of Thailand into my home.

Over the years, I have made Kao Tom Gai countless times, each batch a little different but always filled with the memories of that summer day in Nok's kitchen. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, passing on the tradition and the love that goes into making this simple yet nourishing dish.

As I look back on that fateful day, I am grateful for the gift of friendship and the joy of cooking. Through the shared experience of making Kao Tom Gai, I have learned not only a new recipe but also the importance of tradition, culture, and the simple pleasure of a good meal shared with loved ones.

And so, whenever I make a pot of Kao Tom Gai, I think of Nok and our time together in her kitchen, the laughter, the stories, and the delicious food that brought us closer. In each spoonful of the warm and comforting porridge, I taste the essence of Thailand and the enduring bond of friendship that transcends borders and cultures.

So, if you ever find yourself craving a taste of Thailand, I invite you to try your hand at making Kao Tom Gai. Let the flavors of ginger, lemongrass, and garlic transport you to a cozy kitchen in Bangkok, where a dear friend shared her love and her recipe with a grateful heart. And may each bite bring you joy, connection, and a little taste of heaven on earth.