Thom Ka Soup

Serves 4 as main course

ingredients

1 t. vegetable oil
3 lemon grass stalks, tough outer leaves removed, bottom 5 inches halved lengthwise and sliced thin crosswise
3 large shallots, chopped
8 sprigs fresh cilantro, chopped coarse
3 T. fish sauce
4 cups low-so chicken broth
2 (14 oz.) cans coconut milk, well shaken
1 T. sugar
1/2 lb. white mushrooms, cleaned, stems trimmed, cut into 1/4-inch slices
1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts, halved lengthwise and sliced on bias into 1/8-inch thick pieces
3 T. juice from 2-3 limes
2 t. Thai red curry paste
GARNISH
1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves
2 serrano chiles, sliced thin
2 scallions, sliced thin on bias
1 lime, cut into wedges