HOT AND SOUR SOUP WITH SHRIMP (TOM YUM GOONG)

Steps:

• Trim the bottom of the lemon grass, and remove tough layers. Using a food processor or Japanese or French mandoline, slice the bottom 3 or 4 inches of the stalk tissue-thin.
• Bring the stock to a boil. Add lemon grass and sliced lime leaves, and boil one minute.
• Add the mushrooms, and simmer until mushrooms have softened, 2 or 3 minutes.
• Add the shrimp, chilies and fish sauce, and cook until shrimp are just done. (Do not overcook the shrimp.)
• Stir in the lime juice, tasting as you add. Serve, sprinkled with cilantro and the 4 whole lime leaves.