Thai Clear Soup with Chicken and Winter Melon Recipe
- Praphasri Panphasom
- Jun 20
- 2 min read

If you are looking for a break from rich curries and spicy salads, this Clear Soup with Chicken (Tom Jued or Tom Khaeng) is the perfect palate cleanser. It is a healthy, light, and deeply comforting clear broth soup loaded with tender chicken and winter melon.
The secret to a flavorful Thai clear soup lies in the aromatic base of garlic, coriander roots, and white peppercorns. Follow this simple recipe to create a nourishing bowl of soup that is loved by locals of all ages!
Ingredients (Serves 3-4)
The Core Ingredients:
300 g winter melon (peeled, seeded, and cut into bite-size pieces)
150 g chicken thigh or drumsticks
1.2 liters water
Vegetables & Aromatics:
1 medium carrot, sliced
100 g mushrooms (any variety, such as shiitake or oyster mushrooms)
3 garlic cloves
2 coriander roots (or coriander stems if roots are unavailable)
1/2 teaspoon white peppercorns, lightly crushed
Seasoning & Garnish:
1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
2 tablespoons chopped coriander (cilantro)
2 tablespoons chopped spring onion
2 tablespoons fried garlic
Step-by-Step Instructions
slightly crushed. Bring 1.2 liters of water to a boil in a pot over medium heat, then add the pounded mixture and salt to create a fragrant broth.
Add the chicken: Lightly crush the white peppercorns and place them in a small piece of cheesecloth (optional), then add to the soup. Add the chicken pieces and simmer until the chicken begins to cook through.
Add the winter melon: Add the winter melon to the pot and continue simmering.
Add vegetables: Add the carrot and mushrooms. Let the soup simmer for about 25-30 minutes until the chicken is tender and the winter melon becomes soft and translucent.
Skim the broth: Occasionally skim off any foam from the surface to keep the soup clear.
Season to taste: Taste the broth and adjust the seasoning with more salt or white pepper if needed.
Finish and serve: Turn off the heat. Garnish with chopped coriander, spring onion, and fried garlic before serving.
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