Thai Breakfast Rice Soup with Shrimp is one of those rare comfort foods that blends warmth, nutrition, and simplicity in one bowl. Known in Thai as Khao Tom Goong, this dish is a staple breakfast item served across Thailand’s homes and street stalls. The comforting broth paired with delicate shrimp and fluffy jasmine rice provides the perfect start to the day especially when your body craves something soothing, light, and full of flavor.

At Just Thai Recipes, this recipe isn’t just a meal it reflects the heart of our mission, as shared on our About page. Founder Lina grew up learning Thai cooking from her grandmother and later brought these heartfelt dishes online, so home cooks around the world could experience authentic Thai flavors without feeling overwhelmed.

So whether you’re preparing a quick Thai breakfast rice soup with shrimp, testing out the best Thai breakfast rice soup with shrimp variation for a weekend brunch, or adapting it into a Thai rice soup chicken version, this guide will walk you through it all. You’ll learn how to balance flavors, prepare the stock, and even master optional condiments like fried garlic oil, so each bowl bursts with richness and aroma.

Craving more rice-based comfort? Discover great ideas like Rainbow Rice Salad: Learn How To Make It.

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

Understanding Thai Breakfast Rice Soup with Shrimp

What is Thai Breakfast Rice Soup with Shrimp (Khao Tom Goong)?

Thai Breakfast Rice Soup with Shrimp, or Khao Tom Goong, is a warm and comforting rice porridge made with jasmine rice, light broth, and shrimp, flavored with garlic, pepper, and fresh herbs like cilantro root. Unlike Chinese congee, which is thicker and creamier, Thai rice soup is brothy and lighter in texture—making it especially suitable as a breakfast dish.

Often paired with tang chai (Chinese preserved cabbage) and fried garlic oil, the dish is both nourishing and aromatic. It’s quick to make and can be customized with other proteins like pork (Khao Tom Moo) or even plant-based ingredients for a Thai rice soup vegetarian option.

This soup isn’t just food—it’s a daily ritual for many Thai families.

Cultural Significance of Thai Rice Soup in Breakfast

In Thai households, Khao Tom is often eaten during early mornings when something warm, easy to digest, and hydrating is needed. It’s a go-to meal for people recovering from illness, those returning from morning alms-giving, or simply anyone seeking comfort food before a long day.

Unlike American or European breakfast traditions, Thai breakfast often leans savory. That’s why rice soup, light soups, and grilled meats dominate the morning table.

Families in Thailand often cook a pot in the morning and leave it on low simmer for the whole family to ladle out a bowl when ready. Whether paired with fried eggs or just eaten solo, authentic Thai breakfast rice soup with shrimp hits all the right notes of comfort, nutrition, and flavor.

Check out How To Make Crab Fried Rice for another classic Thai dish that shares similar pantry ingredients and cooking methods.

Print

Ingredients Breakdown for the Perfect Thai Breakfast Rice Soup with Shrimp

Key Ingredients You Need for Authentic Flavor

To make an authentic Thai breakfast rice soup with shrimp, it’s important to start with a balance of umami-rich components, fresh herbs, and aromatics. Here’s a closer look at the essential ingredients you’ll need:

Ingredient	Quantity	Notes
Pork or chicken stock	3 cups	Homemade is best; unsalted preferred
Garlic cloves	3 cloves	Use fresh for maximum aroma
White peppercorns	¼ teaspoon	Gives signature heat
Cilantro stems or roots	6 stems or 2 roots	Adds deep herbal aroma
Shrimp	~150g (chopped), a few whole for garnish	Fresh or defrosted; deveined
Fish sauce	1 tablespoon	Adds salty umami
Soy sauce	½ tablespoon	Optional, adds depth
Cooked jasmine rice	3 cups	Preferably day-old rice for best texture

This blend of aromatics, proteins, and fermented sauces creates the bold but balanced profile Thai rice soups are known for.

Want to try another rice recipe with bold flavor? Don’t miss our Salted Egg Fried Rice it’s another Thai favorite bursting with savory taste.

Optional Condiments and Toppings to Customize

Condiments aren’t just a bonus—they’re a traditional and integral part of the Thai breakfast experience. Here’s how you can elevate your soup with easy toppings:

• Fried Garlic & Garlic Oil: Adds crunch and a rich, roasted aroma.
• Chopped Green Onion & Cilantro: Offers a fresh contrast to the warm broth.
• Tang Chai (Preserved Cabbage): Classic Thai topping for added saltiness and texture.
• Extra Ground White Pepper: For an extra kick—especially comforting in colder months.

These condiments allow you to tailor the soup to your own palate, which is a big reason why the dish is loved by so many.

Looking for inspiration? Try our Thai Tea Ice Cream That’s Better Than Store-Bought for a sweet treat to follow your soup!

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Thai Breakfast Rice Soup with Shrimp

Prepping Your Aromatics and Shrimp

The secret to the best Thai breakfast rice soup with shrimp lies in the way you prep your herbs and shrimp before combining them with the broth. This builds the foundational flavor you’ll taste in every spoonful.

Start by pounding white peppercorns until fine, then add garlic and cilantro root (or stems) and continue pounding until a smooth, fragrant paste forms. This mixture is known as a Thai herb paste, and it’s essential in giving your soup that traditional flavor you’d find in Bangkok’s street stalls.

Divide the paste into two portions. Use half to marinate your small, chopped shrimp—this infuses them with flavor before cooking. This step is crucial, as shrimp can sometimes taste bland if not seasoned properly before being added to broth.

As seen in Hot Thai Kitchen’s recipe for Kao Tom Goong, prepping the shrimp with herbs early helps lock in flavor and fragrance.

Cooking the Shrimp and Layering Flavors

Now, sauté the marinated shrimp with a bit of oil in a pan until cooked through. Deglaze the pan with a splash of your stock, scraping up the browned bits. These caramelized herbs add layers of flavor that make your broth rich and aromatic.

Set the shrimp aside. If you’re using whole shrimp for garnish, pan-sear them until golden brown—this makes for a beautiful presentation later.

Bring the rest of the pork or chicken stock to a boil in a separate pot. Add the remaining half of the herb paste and let it simmer for about a minute. This quick simmer helps release the oils and aromatics without cooking the broth down too much.

Then, season with fish sauce and soy sauce, adjusting to your taste preference. The result should be savory, slightly peppery, and herbal—not salty.

This approach is echoed in Riverside Thai Cooking’s traditional recipe, where minimal simmer time preserves the clarity and freshness of the broth.

Finishing Touches: Rice, Simmer, Serve

With your broth seasoned and ready, bring it to a boil and add the cooked jasmine rice. Jasmine rice gives the soup a naturally fragrant touch, and depending on your preference, you can add more or less to control thickness. If you prefer a brothy soup, go light on the rice.

Add the cooked shrimp back into the pot. Give everything a gentle stir and once it comes back to a simmer, turn off the heat immediately. This step is crucial—overcooking will cause the rice to absorb too much broth, leaving you with mush.

Scoop into bowls and serve hot, topped with fried garlic, garlic oil, green onions, and cilantro. For those who enjoy sharper flavor profiles, preserved cabbage and extra white pepper make perfect additions.

Simply Suwanee’s Thai chicken and rice soup also highlights this timing, ensuring a balance between flavor and texture.

Want to explore another variation of this breakfast classic? Take a look at Thai-Foodie’s version of Thai Rice Soup with Shrimp, which uses similar techniques for maximum comfort and taste.

Customizations and Variations of Thai Breakfast Rice Soup with Shrimp

Adapting for Chicken, Vegetarian, or Mixed Proteins

While the classic Thai breakfast rice soup with shrimp is a standout on its own, it’s also incredibly versatile. Depending on what ingredients you have—or your dietary preferences—you can easily modify it without compromising its authenticity or flavor.

Thai Breakfast Rice Soup with Chicken:
One of the most common alternatives in Thailand is swapping shrimp for chicken. This version is often called Khao Tom Gai and typically uses shredded or chopped chicken breast or thigh. Chicken provides a slightly deeper, richer body to the soup and is ideal for those who want a more filling version of the dish. Simply poach the chicken in the broth until tender, then shred it into bite-sized pieces before adding the rice.

Thai Rice Soup (Vegetarian):
For a plant-based option, remove the fish sauce and shrimp and substitute them with light soy sauce or mushroom soy sauce for umami. Use vegetable stock instead of pork or chicken broth, and add sliced shiitake mushrooms or firm tofu cubes for protein. A dash of sesame oil and ginger can also enhance the depth of flavor, making this vegetarian version just as hearty and comforting.

Mixed Protein Soup:
Combining shrimp and chicken is another popular variation, offering both the sweetness of seafood and the richness of poultry in one bowl. Cook the chicken first, add the rice, then briefly simmer the shrimp at the end to avoid overcooking.

No matter the variation, the key is maintaining the fragrant herb paste, the light yet flavorful broth, and the balanced seasoning that defines this dish.

Balancing Flavors to Your Taste

The beauty of Thai rice soup lies in its ability to be tailored to your own taste—whether that means dialing up the spice, adjusting the saltiness, or loading up on toppings. Here’s how you can customize the flavor profile:

• Too bland? Add a splash more fish sauce or a pinch of salt.
• Too salty? Dilute with extra stock or hot water.
• Needs depth? Stir in a dash of soy sauce or a few drops of toasted sesame oil.
• Too sharp or peppery? Soften with a spoonful of rice or a hint of sugar.

Traditional Thai cooking encourages balance between salty, savory, and aromatic, so it’s always acceptable to adjust to your liking. If you’re cooking for kids, for example, you might want to go lighter on pepper and garlic and lean more toward the broth’s subtle sweetness.

This customizable nature is why authentic Thai breakfast rice soup with shrimp is so beloved—it adapts to whoever is sitting at the table.

Traditional Garnishes and Condiments to Elevate Your Thai Rice Soup

The Role of Garnishes in Thai Cuisine

In Thai cooking, garnishes are never just decorative—they’re functional. They add texture, aroma, and layered flavors that change how each bite of soup tastes. When it comes to Thai breakfast rice soup with shrimp, the condiments you add after cooking make all the difference between a good bowl and an unforgettable one.

Whether you’re preparing a family meal or plating for presentation, topping your rice soup properly honors the tradition and purpose behind the dish.

Fried Garlic and Garlic Oil

One of the most iconic additions is fried garlic with its aromatic oil. This crunchy topping delivers deep, roasted flavor while the garlic-infused oil enriches the broth itself. A spoonful drizzled over the top adds complexity and a golden sheen. It’s typically made by lightly frying chopped garlic in oil until golden brown, then storing both the solids and oil together.

Chopped Green Onion and Fresh Cilantro

Fresh herbs provide balance to the warm, rich soup. Green onions give a slightly sharp bite that cuts through the mildness of the broth. Cilantro, meanwhile, enhances the herbal flavor introduced by the cilantro stems or roots in the paste. A light sprinkling right before serving keeps the aroma vibrant and alive.

Tang Chai (Chinese Preserved Cabbage)

Tang chai is a classic Thai pantry item and a must-have for many Thai soups, including Khao Tom Moo and Khao Tom Goong. It adds a slightly sour, salty kick with a crunchy texture. Just a teaspoon stirred into the soup adds depth and contrast to the softness of the rice and shrimp.

Ground White Pepper

Unlike black pepper, white pepper has a sharp, almost medicinal heat that lingers. It’s a traditional Thai seasoning used not only in the paste but also as a finishing touch. Sprinkling extra white pepper on top allows individuals to customize the spiciness of their bowl.

Other Optional Garnishes

Depending on your taste preferences and availability, here are a few more additions to consider:

• Sliced bird’s eye chili in vinegar: Adds tangy heat for chili lovers.
• Soft-boiled egg: Turns your soup into a protein-packed breakfast.
• Toasted sesame seeds: A nutty flavor perfect for vegetarian versions.
• Crispy shallots: A crunchy alternative to garlic for texture lovers.

These garnishes aren’t just add-ons—they transform the experience of eating the soup. They offer texture where there’s softness, brightness where there’s depth, and freshness where there’s richness. In traditional Thai homes, these toppings are usually placed on the table and each person adds what they like. It’s part of the communal and customizable spirit of Thai cuisine.

Avoiding Common Mistakes When Making Thai Breakfast Rice Soup with Shrimp

Overcooking the Rice or Shrimp

A common pitfall when preparing Thai Breakfast Rice Soup with Shrimp is letting it simmer too long after adding the rice and shrimp. Unlike other soups where long simmering times enhance flavor, this dish is delicate—timing is everything.

The rice is already cooked when added, so additional cooking causes it to swell, become mushy, and absorb too much broth. The result? A thick, porridge-like soup that lacks the light, brothy texture this dish is known for.

Similarly, shrimp cooks quickly. If left simmering in the hot broth, it turns rubbery and chewy. To avoid this:

• Add the shrimp only after the broth is fully seasoned and at a boil.
• Turn off the heat as soon as the shrimp turns opaque.
• Serve immediately to maintain perfect texture and broth clarity.

Using Raw Aromatics Instead of a Herb Paste

Another mistake is skipping the step of pounding garlic, white peppercorns, and cilantro roots or stems into a paste. Simply chopping and adding these ingredients doesn’t release the same intense aroma or flavor. Pounding the paste allows the essential oils to be fully extracted, deeply infusing your broth and shrimp with the foundational Thai taste.

For an authentic Thai Breakfast Rice Soup with Shrimp, this paste is not optional—it’s the soul of the dish.

Using the Wrong Type of Rice

Using long-grain or basmati rice instead of jasmine rice can alter both the aroma and texture of your soup. Jasmine rice is slightly sticky, naturally aromatic, and blends beautifully into the broth without disintegrating. Basmati or short-grain rice may clump or create an undesirable texture.

If you’re using freshly cooked jasmine rice, allow it to cool slightly before adding it to the broth to prevent clumping.

Over-seasoning the Broth Too Early

Seasoning the broth before adding shrimp and rice may lead to a salty end product. The shrimp and rice naturally release a small amount of flavor into the soup, which intensifies the saltiness. Instead:

• Start with a light hand on fish sauce and soy sauce.
• Taste after the shrimp and rice are added, then adjust accordingly.
• Remember that toppings like fried garlic oil, preserved cabbage, and tang chai also contribute salt.

Ignoring Balance in Flavor

Thai Breakfast Rice Soup with Shrimp should never be overwhelmingly salty, spicy, or sour. Thai cuisine is built around balance. That means:

• Salt from fish sauce or soy sauce
• Warmth from white pepper
• Freshness from cilantro and green onion
• Optional acidity from lime or vinegar
• Crunch or umami from fried toppings

The dish should taste comforting, aromatic, and light, not aggressive or overpowering.

Forgetting to Serve It Immediately

One of the biggest mistakes? Letting it sit before serving. The rice continues to absorb liquid and can quickly turn your elegant soup into a thick porridge. If preparing in advance:

• Keep rice and broth separate until just before serving.
• Reheat both individually and combine when ready to eat.

The best Thai Breakfast Rice Soup with Shrimp is served hot, fresh, and full of brightness.

How to Store and Meal Prep Thai Breakfast Rice Soup with Shrimp

Can You Make Thai Breakfast Rice Soup with Shrimp Ahead of Time?

Yes, you absolutely can—with one major rule: store the rice separately from the broth. One of the defining qualities of Thai Breakfast Rice Soup with Shrimp is its light, brothy texture. If you combine everything and let it sit, the rice will soak up the broth, swell, and become mushy. While it may still taste good, the soup will lose its authentic consistency.

To prep this dish ahead of time:

• Cook the broth as instructed, including the herb paste and seasonings.
• Cook the rice and let it cool completely.
• Prepare the shrimp, sautéing and setting aside as needed.
• Store components separately in airtight containers in the fridge.

This method not only maintains the dish’s integrity but also allows you to reheat and serve within minutes.

How to Reheat Thai Breakfast Rice Soup with Shrimp

When you’re ready to enjoy your prepped Thai Breakfast Rice Soup with Shrimp, follow these steps to bring it back to life:

1. Heat the broth on medium-high heat until it reaches a strong simmer.
2. Add the rice and cooked shrimp just before serving.
3. Let it come to a gentle boil, then immediately turn off the heat.
4. Garnish with toppings like fried garlic, green onions, and white pepper.

This reheating technique mirrors the original cooking process and helps preserve the soup’s soft yet brothy character.

Freezing Thai Breakfast Rice Soup with Shrimp: Is It Possible?

Freezing this dish isn’t generally recommended if you’ve already combined the rice with the broth. Frozen rice continues to expand and break down when thawed, leaving you with an overly thick and soggy texture.

However, you can successfully freeze the broth and shrimp mixture without rice. Once thawed, you simply heat the broth and stir in freshly cooked jasmine rice. This ensures your soup still tastes like a freshly made Thai Breakfast Rice Soup with Shrimp instead of a leftover.

Tips for freezing:

• Use freezer-safe containers.
• Leave space for expansion.
• Label and date each portion.
• Avoid freezing toppings; prepare those fresh.

Portioning for Busy Mornings

If you love Thai Breakfast Rice Soup with Shrimp but have a tight morning schedule, try this make-ahead strategy:

• Batch-cook broth and shrimp in advance.
• Freeze in individual portions using silicone muffin trays or small containers.
• Store cooked jasmine rice in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• In the morning, just heat a portion of broth, stir in rice, and garnish. Breakfast is ready in 5 minutes.

This method is ideal for anyone who wants to enjoy a traditional Thai morning dish without spending extra time in the kitchen daily.

Meal prepping this soup is not only doable but ideal for cold mornings, sick days, or when you’re craving something warm, nourishing, and quick.

Thai Breakfast Rice Soup with Shrimp is naturally a dish designed for comfort, and when prepared and stored properly, that comfort lasts well beyond the first serving.

Health Benefits and Nutrition of Thai Breakfast Rice Soup with Shrimp

A Balanced Start to Your Day

Thai Breakfast Rice Soup with Shrimp is more than just a traditional comfort food—it’s a naturally balanced meal. Whether you’re watching your calories, trying to eat clean, or recovering from illness, this dish checks all the right boxes. It delivers protein, carbs, herbs, and hydration in a single warm bowl.

The broth-based nature of this dish makes it light, while the shrimp adds lean protein. Jasmine rice provides energy-boosting carbohydrates without heaviness, and the fresh herbs offer antioxidants and digestive benefits.

Unlike many Western breakfasts loaded with sugar or saturated fats, Thai Breakfast Rice Soup with Shrimp gives you a low-fat, high-nutrient, satisfying meal without leaving you feeling sluggish.

Nutritional Breakdown Per Serving (Approximate)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	250–320 kcal
Protein	18–22g
Carbohydrates	28–35g
Fat	5–8g
Sodium	Varies depending on stock and sauces
Fiber	1–2g

These numbers will vary based on portion size and toppings, but even with condiments like fried garlic and soy sauce, it remains a health-conscious option for most diets.

If you’re watching sodium, you can control the saltiness by using low-sodium stock and moderating your use of fish sauce and soy sauce. Shrimp naturally contains sodium, so be mindful of your total seasoning.

Digestive and Hydrating Qualities

Another reason Thai Breakfast Rice Soup with Shrimp is so popular in Thailand is its gentle nature. The soft rice and warm broth are easy on the stomach, making this dish ideal for those who are feeling under the weather or recovering from illness.

The high water content of the broth contributes to morning hydration, which is something many people overlook. Starting your day with a hot soup replenishes fluids and helps kickstart your digestion gently.

This is especially important in the hot, humid Thai climate—where beginning the day with something light yet nourishing is a cultural norm. But even in cooler climates, this breakfast brings the same restorative, energizing qualities.

Ideal for All Ages and Diets

Because of its simplicity and gentle flavor, Thai Breakfast Rice Soup with Shrimp is a great fit for all age groups—from toddlers to seniors. It’s soft, easy to chew, and low in oil. You can also control ingredients, which makes it suitable for people with food sensitivities.

• Low-fat: Shrimp is naturally low in fat, and the soup uses minimal oil.
• Gluten-free friendly: Just ensure your soy sauce is gluten-free or replace it with tamari.
• No added sugar: Unless sweetened by toppings, this dish is sugar-free.
• Dairy-free: No cream, milk, or cheese involved.

If you’re feeding a family, this dish can easily be portioned and adjusted for different dietary needs, making it one of the most flexible and health-friendly Thai breakfasts.

A Nourishing Comfort for Any Time of Day

While it’s traditionally eaten in the morning, Thai Breakfast Rice Soup with Shrimp is also commonly served during dinner or late at night, especially when someone isn’t feeling well. It warms you from the inside, helps settle your stomach, and doesn’t weigh you down.

It’s not uncommon to see this dish on Thai menus at hospital cafés, family kitchens, and even roadside stalls—its popularity comes from how universal and nutrient-rich it is.

Whether you’re eating it to start your day right or winding down with something easy and wholesome, you’re nourishing both your body and your soul.

Conclusion

Thai Breakfast Rice Soup with Shrimp is more than just a comforting bowl of food—it’s a reflection of tradition, wellness, and home-style Thai cooking at its best. From its deeply aromatic broth to its tender shrimp and soothing jasmine rice, every bite tells a story of balance, nourishment, and simplicity.

Whether you’re preparing a quick weekday breakfast or recovering from a long day, this soup has everything you need. It’s light yet filling, flavorful without being overpowering, and endlessly customizable with toppings like fried garlic, fresh herbs, or tangy preserved cabbage. If you’re following a specific diet, the flexibility of Thai Breakfast Rice Soup with Shrimp means you can make it vegetarian, low-sodium, gluten-free, or even heartier with added proteins like chicken.

Beyond its flavor, what makes this dish so timeless is its role in Thai culture. It’s a meal for everyone—from young kids to grandparents, from the bustling streets of Bangkok to quiet kitchens around the world. And with simple ingredients and a few easy steps, it becomes a dish you can enjoy regularly without spending hours in the kitchen.

Looking for inspiration? Try our Thai Red Rubies Dessert after your bowl of Thai Breakfast Rice Soup with Shrimp to complete your traditional Thai morning experience.

If you’ve never made it before, now’s the time. Once you do, this dish is sure to become a trusted go-to—warm, satisfying, and always exactly what you need.

Frequently Asked Questions About Thai Breakfast Rice Soup with Shrimp

Watch How to Make Thai Breakfast Rice Soup with Shrimp