National Dish Thailand: Kao Tom Pla (Recipe)
In this article
Discover Kao Tom Pla, Thailand’s wonderfully comforting fish rice soup. Light yet deeply satisfying, it brings together tender flakes of fresh fish, soft jasmine rice and the bright, savoury notes of fish sauce and coriander. Equally at home as a soothing breakfast or a warming supper, this gentle bowl captures the easygoing soul of Thai home cooking. Bring its fragrant simplicity straight to your own kitchen.
About Kao Tom Pla
Kao Tom Pla is a traditional Thai dish celebrated for its simplicity and its delicious, soothing flavour. It is a fish rice soup that is especially welcome on cooler days or as a light breakfast. The dish is not only tasty but also genuinely nourishing thanks to ingredients such as jasmine rice and fresh fish. It is the perfect choice for anyone who wants to enjoy the gentle, balanced aromas of Thai cooking without spending hours at the stove.
Ingredients (serves 1–2)
- 200g fresh fish (such as sea bass or cod)
- 100g jasmine rice
- 1 litre water
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 1 spring onion, finely sliced
- 1 garlic clove, chopped
- A few sprigs of coriander, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lime wedges, to garnish (optional)
Shopping for the ingredients
When shopping for Kao Tom Pla, it is important to choose fresh fish to achieve the very best flavour. Jasmine rice is the traditional choice and can be found in any well-stocked supermarket. Spring onions and coriander bring fresh, lively notes, while fish sauce and soy sauce provide the characteristic Thai seasoning. Take care to use good-quality ingredients to preserve the authenticity of the dish.
Preparing the dish
Before you begin cooking, you should prepare all your ingredients. Cut the fish into bite-sized pieces and rinse the rice thoroughly. Chop the garlic and finely slice the spring onions and coriander. Keep everything within easy reach so the cooking runs smoothly. This bit of groundwork saves you time and makes the whole process considerably more relaxed.
Step-by-step instructions
- Cook the jasmine rice in a pan with a litre of water until it is soft.
- Add the chopped garlic and let everything simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Add the fish pieces and simmer for roughly 10 minutes, until they are cooked through.
- Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the fish sauce, soy sauce and sugar.
- Season with salt and pepper, then garnish with spring onions and coriander.
- Serve with lime wedges if you like, to add a fresh, zesty note.
Gluten-free / lactose-free version
Kao Tom Pla is naturally gluten-free and lactose-free, as long as you make sure the soy sauce you use contains no gluten. Check the labels on your sauces to confirm they are suitable for a gluten-free diet. No special adjustments are needed for a lactose-free version, since the recipe contains no dairy products at all — making it an easy dish to share with guests who have intolerances.
Tips for vegans and vegetarians
To create a vegan version of this dish, you can simply replace the fish with tofu. Use firm tofu cut into cubes to achieve the texture you are after. In place of fish sauce, reach for a plant-based alternative or a little soy sauce. These small swaps make the soup just as appealing for vegans and vegetarians without compromising on flavour — much like a vegetable-led Pad Pak Bung.
More tips and tricks
For a more intense flavour, you can use a homemade fish stock as the base for the rice. Let the soup rest for a few minutes after cooking so the aromas have time to develop fully. You might also add various vegetables such as carrots or celery to make the dish even more nourishing. Try different kinds of fish to discover which you like best in this gentle, comforting bowl.
Adapting the recipe to your taste
You can easily adapt Kao Tom Pla to your personal preferences. If you like a little more heat, add chopped chillies or chilli flakes. For a milder result, reduce the quantity of seasonings. Do not hesitate to experiment with different herbs and spices to refine the dish to your own taste, the way you might with a punchier Pla Raad Prik.
Ingredient substitutions
Should one of the ingredients prove hard to find, there are plenty of alternatives you can use. In place of jasmine rice you could use ordinary white rice or even quinoa. If you cannot get fresh fish, frozen fish works too — just be sure to thaw it completely and rinse it thoroughly first. Coriander can be replaced with parsley if you are not a fan of the herb.
Drink pairing ideas
A range of drinks pairs nicely with Kao Tom Pla and rounds out the eating experience. A chilled white wine, such as a Riesling or Sauvignon Blanc, complements the dish beautifully. For an alcohol-free option, green tea or a refreshing lime-and-mint cordial both work well. Carafes of water with slices of cucumber or lemon also offer a pleasant, cooling refreshment.
Serving and presentation ideas
To present your Kao Tom Pla in an appealing way, use bowls and plates that reflect the traditional Thai style. Garnish the dish with fresh herbs and lime wedges to add colour and freshness. Reach for chopsticks for an authentic eating experience and serve the soup piping hot so the aromas come fully into their own. A simple, elegant bowl lets the soup itself take centre stage.
A bit of history
Kao Tom Pla has a long tradition in Thai cuisine and is often served as a breakfast or a light evening meal. Originally it was a humble dish enjoyed by fishermen and their families. Over time it has grown into a popular favourite found in many Thai households and restaurants. The combination of fish, rice and aromatic seasonings captures the very essence of Thai cuisine, where balance and simplicity are prized above all.
More recipe ideas
Summary: Kao Tom Pla
Kao Tom Pla is a wonderful way to experience the variety of Thai cuisine. With its simple ingredients and a fuss-free method of preparation, this dish is ideal for beginners and seasoned cooks alike. Whether you enjoy it as a light breakfast or a warming supper, this fish rice soup is sure to delight your palate. Give it a try and let its gentle, fragrant aromas win you over.
