How to Choose Fresh Ingredients

Here's how to choose high-quality fresh ingredients for making Tom Yum Goong, especially shrimp.

Choose fresh shrimp — The shell should be clear and shiny, the color natural, the head firmly attached to the body, the flesh firm and bouncy, not mushy, and free from any foul or ammonia smell.
Choose fresh mushrooms — The mushrooms should be firm, not bruised or wilted, and free from slime or unusual odors.
Choose lemongrass — The stems should be plump and firm, not dry or moldy. When cut or crushed, it should have a clear, fragrant aroma.
Choose galangal — Choose young galangal with firm flesh, a white to pinkish color, and not dry or showing signs of rot.
Choose kaffir lime leaves — The leaves should be fresh green, not yellow or wilted, and fragrant when torn.
Choose limes and chilies ️ — Limes should have thin peels and be juicy, while chilies should be fresh, with green stems, firm skin, and not rotten.
Check before cooking — Wash the ingredients thoroughly, separate raw seafood from vegetables, and keep shrimp refrigerated until ready to cook.

Short summary for making Tom Yum Goong:
Choose fresh shrimp → Check the color and smell → Check the firmness of the flesh → Select fresh herbs → Wash thoroughly → Prepare the ingredients → Cook the Tom Yum Goong.