A Warming Seafood Dinner for Cozy Evenings

This Tom Yum seafood soup with coconut milk, shrimp, squid, mushrooms and rice is a warm, comforting dish inspired by Thai flavors.

This Tom Yum seafood soup is perfect for a cozy dinner when you want something flavorful, warming and easy to prepare.

It’s the kind of meal that feels both nourishing and satisfying without being heavy. The seafood adds plenty of protein, the vegetables bring freshness and texture, while the rice makes the soup more filling.

The coconut milk softens the spicy Tom Yum flavors and creates a creamy, aromatic broth that pairs beautifully with shrimp and squid.

This is not a complicated restaurant recipe.
It’s a simple homemade version made with ingredients that are easy to find and quick to prepare.

If you enjoy flavorful seafood soups, this Tom Yum seafood soup is a comforting dinner that warms you from the first spoon.

Recipe name: Tom Yum Seafood Soup with Rice

Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 3–4
Cuisine: Thai-inspired
Course: Dinner / Soup

Why You Will Love This Tom Yum Seafood Soup

This tom yum seafood soup is warm, aromatic and easy to prepare. Coconut milk softens the spices while shrimp and squid create a rich seafood flavor.

Ingredients for Tom Yum Seafood Soup

• 1 tbsp (15 ml) coconut oil
• 2 tbsp (30 g) Tom Yum paste or sauce
• 4.4 oz (125 g) rice (~⅔ cup)
• 4 cups (1 liter) water

• 5 oz (150 g) mushrooms, sliced
• 5 oz (150 g) tomatoes (1–2 small), chopped

• 12 oz (350 g) whole shrimp with shells, peeled (about 6–7 oz / 180–200 g shrimp meat)
• 3.5 oz (100 g) squid, sliced

• ¾ cup (200 ml) coconut milk

Optional:
• 3.5 oz (100 g) mussels (can be added, but not used in this recipe)
• 1 tbsp lemon or lime juice
• fresh cilantro for garnish

How to Make Tom Yum Seafood Soup

1. Heat coconut oil in a medium pot over medium heat.
2. Add Tom Yum paste and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
3. Add the rice and stir for about 1 minute so it absorbs the spices.
4. Pour in the water and simmer for about 10 minutes, until the rice begins to soften.
5. Add mushrooms and tomatoes and cook for another 3–4 minutes.
6. Slice the squid into small pieces and add it together with the shrimp.
7. Cook for 2–3 minutes, just until the seafood is tender.
8. Stir in the coconut milk and gently heat the soup.
9. Taste and add lemon or lime juice if desired.
10. Serve topped with freshly chopped cilantro.

Nutrition (Per Serving – Approx.)

• 340 kcal
• Protein: 24 g
• Carbohydrates: 36 g
• Fat: 12 g
• Fiber: 3 g

Tips for Best Flavor

• Do not overcook shrimp and squid to keep them tender.
• Add lemon or lime juice at the end for brighter flavor.
• Coconut milk makes the soup creamy and balances the spices.

Variations

• Add mussels for a richer seafood version.
• Use jasmine rice for a more aromatic flavor.
• Add chili flakes for extra heat.

FAQ About Tom Yum Seafood Soup

What seafood works best in Tom Yum seafood soup?
Shrimp and squid work especially well in this soup because they cook quickly and add a rich seafood flavor to the broth. Mussels can also be added for a deeper and more intense seafood taste.

Can I make Tom Yum seafood soup without squid?
Yes, you can easily make this soup using only shrimp. If you prefer, you can also add mussels or pieces of white fish instead of squid.

Is Tom Yum seafood soup very spicy?
Traditional Tom Yum soup is usually quite spicy, but in this version coconut milk softens the heat and makes the soup creamier and milder.

Can I store Tom Yum seafood soup in the refrigerator?
Yes, you can store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat it gently so the seafood stays tender and does not become rubbery.

Can I add more shrimp to this soup?
Yes, you can add more shrimp if you prefer a richer seafood flavor. Shrimp work very well in this soup and pair perfectly with the coconut broth.

If you want to understand how to build balanced meals that support stable energy, read more about the Balanced Plate method here.