Tom Yum Fried Rice, known in Thailand as Khao Pad Tom Yum, is a flavorful fusion of two beloved Thai classics: fragrant fried rice and the bold, aromatic flavors of Tom Yum soup. Combining jasmine rice with lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, galangal, chilies, lime juice, and your choice of protein, this dish delivers the signature hot-and-sour taste that Thai food lovers crave.

Perfect for lunch, dinner, or using up leftover rice, Tom Yum Fried Rice is a quick and satisfying meal packed with authentic Thai flavors.

What is Tom Yum Fried Rice?

Tom Yum Fried Rice takes the essential ingredients and seasonings of Tom Yum Goong (Thai hot and sour soup) and incorporates them into fried rice. The result is a vibrant dish that balances spicy, sour, savory, and slightly sweet notes while maintaining the smoky aroma of wok-fried rice.

Shrimp is the most common protein used, but chicken, seafood, tofu, or mixed vegetables work equally well.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Bold Tom Yum flavors in every bite
  • Quick and easy to prepare
  • Perfect use for leftover rice
  • Customizable with different proteins
  • Restaurant-quality Thai dish at home
  • Spicy, tangy, and aromatic

Ingredients

For the Fried Rice

  • 3 cups cooked jasmine rice (day-old preferred)
  • 250 g shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, sliced
  • 1 tomato, diced
  • 3 kaffir lime leaves, finely sliced
  • 1 stalk lemongrass, finely minced
  • 1 teaspoon galangal, finely grated
  • 2 green onions, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons cilantro leaves

For the Tom Yum Seasoning

  • 1 tablespoon Thai chili paste (Nam Prik Pao)
  • 1 tablespoon fish sauce
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon palm sugar
  • 1–2 Thai bird's eye chilies, chopped

Garnish

  • Lime wedges
  • Fresh cilantro
  • Sliced cucumber
  • Extra chili flakes

Equipment Needed

  • Wok or large frying pan
  • Wooden spatula
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Mixing bowl

Preparation Time

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Servings: 4

Step 1: Prepare the Tom Yum Sauce

In a small bowl, combine:

  • Thai chili paste
  • Fish sauce
  • Lime juice
  • Palm sugar
  • Chopped chilies

Mix well until the sugar dissolves.

Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Aromatics

Heat the vegetable oil in a wok over medium-high heat.

Add:

  • Garlic
  • Onion
  • Lemongrass
  • Galangal

Stir-fry for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Add the shrimp and stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque.

Add the diced tomato and sliced kaffir lime leaves.

Cook for another minute.

Step 4: Fry the Rice

Add the cooked jasmine rice.

Break apart any clumps and toss well with the shrimp and aromatics.

Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until heated through.

Step 5: Add the Tom Yum Seasoning

Pour the prepared Tom Yum sauce over the rice.

Stir-fry continuously for 2–3 minutes until every grain is evenly coated.

Taste and adjust:

  • More lime juice for extra sourness
  • More fish sauce for saltiness
  • More chili for heat

Step 6: Finish the Dish

Add:

  • Green onions
  • Cilantro

Toss briefly and remove from heat.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Transfer the fried rice to serving plates.

Garnish with:

  • Fresh cilantro
  • Lime wedges
  • Sliced cucumber
  • Chili flakes

Serve immediately.

Chef's Tips

  • Day-old rice produces the best fried rice texture.
  • Finely slice kaffir lime leaves for maximum aroma.
  • Use high heat for authentic wok flavor.
  • Avoid overcooking the shrimp.
  • Fresh lime juice is essential for authentic Tom Yum flavor.

Variations

Seafood Tom Yum Fried Rice

Use a combination of shrimp, squid, mussels, and scallops.

Chicken Tom Yum Fried Rice

Replace shrimp with diced chicken breast or thigh.

Vegetarian Tom Yum Fried Rice

Use tofu and mushrooms while replacing fish sauce with soy sauce.

Extra Spicy Version

Add additional bird's eye chilies and chili paste.

Health Benefits

This dish provides:

  • Protein from shrimp
  • Vitamins from tomatoes and herbs
  • Antioxidants from galangal and lemongrass
  • Energy from jasmine rice
  • Immune-supporting nutrients from fresh spices

Serving Suggestions

Tom Yum Fried Rice pairs perfectly with:

  • Thai spring rolls
  • Grilled shrimp skewers
  • Papaya salad (Som Tam)
  • Tom Yum soup
  • Thai iced tea
  • Fresh fruit platter

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Reheat in a wok or skillet over medium heat until thoroughly warmed.

For best flavor and texture, enjoy freshly cooked.

Final Thoughts

Tom Yum Fried Rice (Khao Pad Tom Yum) combines the vibrant, tangy flavors of Thailand’s famous Tom Yum soup with the satisfying comfort of fried rice. Loaded with aromatic herbs, juicy shrimp, and bold seasonings, this dish is a delicious way to enjoy authentic Thai cuisine in a quick and easy meal.

Serve it hot with fresh lime wedges and enjoy the irresistible balance of spicy, sour, and savory flavors that make Thai food so memorable.