Hot and Sour Shrimp Soup a la Tom Yum

Directions

1. 1
   Pour the broth into a pot and bring to the boil.
2. 2
   Drop the galangal slices, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, chilies and tomatoes into the broth. Lower the heat. Cover and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. 3
   Add the shrimps to the broth.
4. 4
   If the broth is unseasoned or underseasoned, add fish sauce.
5. 5
   Cover the pot once more and simmer for five minutes, or just long enough to cook the shrimps but without overcooking them.
6. 6
   Taste the broth.
7. 7
   Add more fish sauce, if needed.
8. 8
   Drizzle in the lime juice, a tablespoonful at a time, tasting and adding as you go along until a good balance of salty and sour is achieved.
9. 9
   Ladle your hot and sour shrimp soup into bowls, sprinkle with cilantro and serve immediately.