Tom Sab Recipe

Tom Sab is Isaan's fiery, sour pork soup: tender ribs in a lemongrass and galangal broth sharpened with lime and chilli and rounded with toasted rice. It is bold, aromatic and deeply warming.

Prep time

25 mins

Cook time

90 mins

Total time

115 mins

Servings

4 servings

Calories

520

Ingredients

• 800 g pork ribs, cut into pieces
• 2 lemongrass stalks, bruised
• 1 piece galangal, sliced
• 4 kaffir lime leaves
• 3 tbsp fish sauce
• Juice of 2 limes
• 5 dried chillies, crushed
• 1 tbsp toasted rice powder
• Spring onions and coriander, to serve

Instructions

1. Simmer the ribs in water for 60 minutes, skimming, until tender.
2. Add lemongrass, galangal and lime leaves and simmer 20 minutes more.
3. Season with fish sauce, lime juice and crushed chillies, tasting for a bold sour-salty balance.
4. Stir in the toasted rice powder just before serving.
5. Ladle into bowls and scatter with spring onions and coriander.
6. Plate Tom Sab nicely, garnish as you like, and serve fresh.

Pro tips

• Skimming gives a clear, clean-tasting broth.
• Add the lime juice off the boil to keep it bright.
• Toasted rice powder thickens and adds a nutty aroma.

Frequently asked questions