HOT AND SOUR SHRIMP SOUP

Steps:

• Peel and devein shrimp, reserving 10 shells. Rinse shrimp, pat dry, and set aside.
• In a medium saucepan, heat oil over high heat until it begins to smoke. Add dried chiles and reserved shrimp shells, and cook, stirring, until chiles turn black and shells turn pink, 30 seconds to 1 minute. Using a slotted spoon, transfer chiles and shells to a square of cheesecloth. Tie securely with kitchen twine, and return to saucepan.
• Add stock, and bring to a boil. Add galangal, lemongrass, cilantro roots or stems, kaffir-lime leaves, and fresh chiles. Reduce heat to medium low, cover, and let spices infuse the stock for 15 to 20 minutes.
• Stir in salt and fish sauce. Taste, and adjust for seasoning. Add mushrooms, raise heat to high, and boil for 10 minutes.
• Remove cheesecloth pouch, lemongrass, and kaffir-lime leaves; discard. Add shrimp, and cook just until pink, 1 to 2 minutes. Add roasted chiles in oil. Taste, and adjust for seasoning. Remove from heat, and stir in lime juice. Taste again; there should be an equal balance of spicy, salty, and sour flavors. Garnish with cilantro, and serve immediately.