– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 stalk lemongrass, chopped and smashed
– 3-4 slices galangal (or ginger if unavailable)
– 3-4 kaffir lime leaves, torn into pieces
– 2-3 Thai bird’s eye chilies, smashed (adjust to taste)
– 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (shiitake or button)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 medium onion, sliced
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce (or soy sauce for a vegetarian option)
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
– Salt and pepper to taste
Creating Slow Cooker Tom Kha Gai is straightforward when following these step-by-step instructions:
1. Prepare the Slow Cooker: Begin by setting up your slow cooker and making sure it’s plugged in.
2. Add the Broth: Pour the chicken broth into the slow cooker as the base for the soup.
3. Add Coconut Milk: After the broth, carefully stir in the coconut milk, mixing well.
4. Combine Aromatics: Add the chopped lemongrass, galangal slices, kaffir lime leaves, and smashed chilies to the pot, ensuring they are submerged.
5. Add Chicken: Place the bite-sized chicken pieces on top of the broth and coconut milk mixture.
6. Incorporate Vegetables: Add the sliced mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, and onions, stirring gently to mix.
7. Season: Pour in the fish sauce (or soy sauce) and season with salt and pepper according to taste. Avoid over-seasoning at this point as it can be adjusted later.
8. Cover and Cook: Secure the lid on the slow cooker. Set the timer for 4 to 6 hours on low heat or 2 to 3 hours on high heat.
9. Finish with Lime Juice: Once cooked, add fresh lime juice before serving to enhance the flavors.
10. Garnish: Top with freshly chopped cilantro for an added burst of flavor and color.
By following these steps, you will have a delicious and aromatic Tom Kha Gai that everyone will adore.