Vegetarian Thai Khao Tom (Black Rice Soup with Tofu & Boiled Egg)

Thai Style Khao Tom Recipe (Black Rice Clear Soup)
An Inviting Vegetarian Take on a Traditional Thai Breakfast

Thai Style Khao Tom is a comforting and nutritious breakfast dish enjoyed widely across Thailand. Traditionally made with minced pork, fish sauce, and a savory broth, this modern vegetarian version retains all the depth of flavor with a satisfying twist. The black rice, simmered with aromatic lemongrass, garlic, and ginger, infuses the broth with a delightful fragrance, while the addition of tofu provides a hearty, protein-rich touch. This clear soup is light yet filling and garnished with crispy caramelized onions, fresh herbs, and a boiled egg, making it the perfect dish to start your day on a healthy note. Paired with a simple Thai salad or grilled pineapple, this one-bowl meal is sure to satisfy.

Ingredients

Preparation Time

10 minutes

Cooking Time

45 minutes

Instructions

1. Prepare the Broth
   Begin by preparing the broth for the Thai Style Khao Tom. In a medium pot, bring 4 cups of water to a gentle boil. Add the black rice, lemongrass, onion, garlic, and ginger. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 25 minutes. This will allow the rice to cook in the fragrant broth, infusing the soup with its rich flavors.

2. Boil the Eggs
   While the broth is simmering, prepare the boiled eggs. Place them in a small saucepan, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Once the water begins to boil, reduce the heat and simmer for about 10 minutes. Once done, remove the eggs from the hot water and set aside to cool. Once cool, peel the eggs and set them aside for garnish.

3. Caramelize the Onions
   In a separate pan, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and sauté until golden brown and caramelized, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking. Once caramelized, remove from the heat and set aside.

4. Check the Rice
   By now, the black rice should be tender but still slightly chewy. Taste it to ensure it has reached your desired texture, being careful not to overcook the rice. Once the rice is cooked, add the soy sauce, spring onions, coriander leaves, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Assemble the Dish
   To serve, ladle the hot broth and rice into a serving bowl. Peel the boiled eggs and slice them in half or quarters, placing them on top of the soup. Add a generous scoop of caramelized onions, fresh tofu cubes, and garnish with more chopped coriander leaves and spring onions for a burst of freshness.

6. Serve and Enjoy
   This Thai Style Khao Tom makes for a wonderful one-dish breakfast. Its balance of savory, spicy, and slightly tangy flavors makes it both comforting and energizing. For a complete meal, pair it with Thai Grilled Pineapple or a light and refreshing Som Tum Salad (Thai Green Papaya Salad) on the side.

Tips for the Best Khao Tom

• Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a spicier soup, feel free to add more fresh red chilies or a dash of chili paste to the broth.
• Texture of Rice: The black rice should be slightly chewy, not mushy. Keep an eye on the cooking time, as it can vary depending on the type of black rice used.
• Protein Options: Though this recipe is vegetarian, you can always add minced pork or chicken to the broth for a more traditional version.

Nutritional Information

This Thai Style Khao Tom Recipe is a delightful and nutritious start to your day, offering a balance of flavors that are sure to keep you satisfied until your next meal. The combination of fragrant lemongrass, savory soy sauce, and protein-packed tofu creates a comforting broth, while the boiled egg and crispy caramelized onions elevate the dish to a whole new level of deliciousness. Whether you’re enjoying it solo or pairing it with a refreshing Thai salad or grilled fruit, this meal is sure to nourish both body and soul.