Instructions: * Note 1: Use only the tender inner part of the stalks.

* Note 2: These items available in Asian markets or specialty food stores.

In a bowl combine shrimp, 2 tablespoons of the lime juice, 2 teaspoons of the fish sauce, 1 tablespoon of the green chilies, and 1 teaspoon of the finely-minced lemongrass. Mix well and let marinate while you prepare the soup.

In a large saucepan heat oil over high heat. Add shrimp shells and cook, stirring occasionally, 5 minutes, or until shells have begun to brown. Add chicken stock, 2 tablespoons of the green chilies, the 2 tablespoons sliced lemongrass, kefir lime leaves, coriander roots and stems, galanga root, shallots and tamarind pulp; bring to a boil. Reduce heat to simmering, cover and cook 30 minutes.

Into a clean saucepan strain soup through a fine sieve, pressing on solids to extract as much liquid as possible; discard solids. Heat over medium-high heat and add remaining 2 tablespoons lime juice, remaining 2 teaspoons fish sauce, remaining 1 tablespoon green chilies, remaining teaspoon minced lemongrass, straw mushrooms, coriander leaves, and scallions; stir well.

To serve, add shrimp in their marinade and cook 30 seconds or until shrimp turn pink and are cooked through.

This recipe yields 4 servings.

If you would like to email yourself the recipe for later use, or share the recipe with your friends or family, enter the email addresses below and this recipe will be emailed to you and others as well.