TOM YUM BROTH RECIPES

Steps:

• Trim off about 1/2 inch from the root end of 1 lemongrass stalk and 2/3 off the top. Peel off and discard the tough outer leaves until you reach the smooth and pale inner leaves. Cut this portion into 1-inch lengths and smash the pieces with a heavy object until they split. Use the heavy object to also bruise 5 fresh makrut lime leaves, then tear each leaf into about 8 pieces.
• Place the lemongrass, makrut lime leaves, and 1 quart unsalted chicken stock or low-sodium chicken broth in a medium pot or large saucepan. Bring it to a boil. Reduce heat to medium and simmer for 5 minutes. The lemongrass and lime leaves will be very fragrant. Meanwhile, cut 8 ounces oyster mushrooms into bite-sized pieces and juice 2 limes until you have 1/4 cup juice.
• Remove and the discard the lemongrass and lime leaves. Add the mushrooms, 8 ounces peeled and deveined large or jumbo shrimp, 2 tablespoons nam prik pao paste, and 2 tablespoons fish sauce. Simmer until the shrimp turn opaque, about 2 minutes. Remove the pot from the heat.
• Trim the stems from 3 Thai chiles. Add the chiles and lime juice to the pot and stir to combine. Sprinkle 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves on top just before serving. Warn your guests the chilies are there to add flavor and spice, and that they probably don’t want to eat the chilies whole (or remove them before serving).

Steps:

• Trim off the top third and very bottom of the lemongrass stalks. Using the side of a knife, press down across the stalks to bruise the lemongrass and release the oils. Chop each stalk into 4 pieces and set aside.
• Add the chili peppers, garlic, and galangal to a mortar and pestle and grind into a paste. Set aside.
• Melt the coconut oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil begins to shimmer, add the lemongrass and cook for 3-4 minutes, until fragrant. Add the chili pepper paste and cook for another 3-4 minutes, until fragrant.
• Add the vegetable broth, tomato, lime leaves, coconut milk, and soy sauce and stir to combine. Bring to a boil. Cover, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20 minutes, until broth has reduced slightly.
• Add the tofu and mushrooms and stir to combine. Cook for 5 minutes, until the mushrooms are tender.
• Add the lime juice and agave and stir to combine. Season with salt to taste.
• Garnish with cilantro and serve.
• Enjoy!