23 Thai Soup Ideas That Will Make You Crave a Second Bowl
Ever had one of those days where you just want something cozy, spicy, and absolutely packed with flavor? Yeah, that’s where Thai soups swoop in like a superhero in a steaming hot bowl.
From creamy coconut bases to fiery chili broths, Thai soups bring the kind of variety that keeps your taste buds guessing.
And honestly—who doesn’t want a little culinary adventure without needing a passport?
I’ve rounded up 23 Thai soup ideas that cover everything from the classics you know (hello, Tom Yum) to some underrated gems you probably haven’t tried yet.
Whether you’re in the mood for a quick weeknight fix, a showstopper for friends, or just want to fight off the winter blues, I’ve got you covered.
Let’s dig in (literally).
1. Tom Yum Soup (Hot and Sour Classic)
You can’t talk about Thai soups without mentioning Tom Yum. It’s spicy, sour, and full of lemongrass, lime, chili, and mushrooms. Shrimp is the most popular protein here, but chicken works too.
Why it rocks: It’s the ultimate wake-up call for your taste buds. Ever feel like your palate needs a reboot? Tom Yum is your reset button.
2. Tom Kha Gai (Coconut Chicken Soup)
Think of it as Tom Yum’s creamier, calmer cousin. The coconut milk balances out the chili heat, and the galangal (kind of like ginger, but more citrusy) adds a unique kick.
Pro tip: Don’t skip the kaffir lime leaves—they’re the soul of this dish.
3. Thai Beef Noodle Soup
If you love pho, this one’s going to win your heart. Rich beef broth, rice noodles, and herbs create a hearty yet fresh soup.
Personal note: I once made this after a long day, and I swear it was like an edible hug.
4. Thai Pumpkin Soup
A little sweet, a little spicy, and ridiculously smooth. Thai pumpkin soup often includes coconut milk, red curry paste, and fresh herbs.
Bonus: It’s perfect for fall when pumpkins are everywhere. Why not turn them into soup instead of just carving them?
5. Tom Saap (Northeastern Thai Soup)
This spicy and sour pork rib soup comes from Isan, Thailand’s northeast region. It’s bold, rustic, and less famous than Tom Yum, but just as addictive.
6. Thai Glass Noodle Soup (Gaeng Jued Woon Sen)
This is the “comfort food” of Thai soups. Light, clear broth with glass noodles, veggies, and sometimes pork meatballs.
Ever wanted a Thai soup that won’t knock you out with spice? This is the one.
7. Thai Fish Soup
Light, aromatic, and perfect for seafood lovers. Often flavored with lime, lemongrass, and chili.
FYI: Fresh fish works best here. Frozen fillets? Meh.
8. Thai Crab and Coconut Soup
Rich, indulgent, and definitely not your everyday lunch. Crab meat and coconut milk make this taste like luxury in a bowl.
9. Thai Chicken Rice Soup (Khao Tom Gai)
This is basically Thailand’s version of chicken and rice soup. It’s simple, healing, and the kind of thing locals eat when they’re feeling under the weather.
IMO: It beats chicken noodle soup hands down.
10. Thai Pork Ball Soup
Tiny pork meatballs swimming in clear broth with greens and noodles. It’s light yet satisfying, kind of like that one friend who’s always chill but somehow makes every hangout better.
11. Thai Red Curry Soup
Take red curry paste, add coconut milk, and thin it into a soup. Toss in veggies and protein, and you’ve got yourself a bold, flavorful meal.
Warning: This one’s not for spice wimps.
12. Thai Green Curry Soup
The greener, herbier sibling of red curry soup. Fragrant basil and green chili paste create a soup that feels bright and fresh.
13. Thai Yellow Curry Soup
Milder than its red and green counterparts, yellow curry soup is warm, slightly sweet, and incredibly cozy.
Perfect for: People who want flavor without fire.
14. Thai Shrimp Coconut Soup
Basically Tom Kha but with shrimp as the star. The combo of sweet coconut and briny shrimp? Absolute win.
15. Thai Sweet Potato Soup
Sweet potatoes, coconut milk, and curry paste turn into a silky, slightly sweet soup with just the right amount of kick.
Ever thought sweet potato could be sexy? Well, now you know.
16. Thai Spicy Basil Soup
If you’re a fan of Thai basil, this soup will blow your mind. The anise-like flavor of basil balances the heat and adds depth.
17. Thai Street-Style Boat Noodle Soup
Famous in Bangkok, this one’s sold from boats on canals (hence the name). It’s a rich broth with beef, pork, or even offal, plus noodles and herbs.
Not for the faint of heart: It’s bold, funky, and sometimes even includes cow’s blood for richness. Yeah, you read that right.
18. Thai Cabbage Soup
Light, veggie-packed, and surprisingly comforting. It’s often cooked with glass noodles and pork.
Pro tip: Don’t underestimate “simple” soups. This one is an unsung hero.
19. Thai Spicy Seafood Soup
Shrimp, squid, mussels—throw them all in. This soup is a seafood lover’s dream, spiked with chili and lime for that signature Thai punch.
20. Thai Curry Laksa (Fusion Favorite)
Okay, technically this one’s Malaysian-Thai fusion, but it’s too good not to include. Rich coconut curry broth, noodles, and all the toppings.
Confession: I’d eat this three times a week if my metabolism would allow it.
21. Thai Tofu Soup
A vegetarian-friendly soup with tofu, mushrooms, and greens in a clear or coconut base. Light but still hearty.
Great for: When you want comfort food without the food coma.
22. Thai Duck Soup
Tender duck meat simmered in a fragrant broth with spices and sometimes noodles. It’s a little fancy but so worth it.
23. Thai Lemongrass Soup
Simple, fresh, and all about that citrusy lemongrass flavor. Sometimes made with chicken, sometimes just veggies.
Ever wanted a soup that feels like a spa day in a bowl? This is it.
Tips for Making Thai Soups at Home
Before you start Googling recipes and stocking up on coconut milk, let’s cover a few basics:
- Stock up on essentials: Lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, galangal, fish sauce, and curry pastes are the holy grail of Thai soups.
- Balance is key: Thai cooking is all about hitting sweet, sour, salty, and spicy notes. Taste as you go.
- Don’t skip fresh herbs: Cilantro, Thai basil, and mint add the final “wow” factor.
- Customize it: Not a fan of shrimp? Swap it for chicken. Vegetarian? Use tofu or extra veggies.
Wrapping It Up
So, there you go—23 Thai soup ideas that range from fiery and bold to light and comforting. Whether you’re chasing the heat of Tom Yum, the creaminess of Tom Kha, or the richness of curry soups, there’s a Thai bowl for every mood.
Next time you’re craving something warm, don’t just reach for the usual chicken noodle. Try one of these Thai soups and thank me later.
And hey, if you already have a favorite, which one is it? Or are you the type who orders Tom Yum every single time? (No judgment—I do it too sometimes.)
