Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Cut the pork ribs into bite-sized pieces and set aside. Bruise the lemongrass by lightly smashing it with the back of a knife to release its flavors. Tear the kaffir lime leaves to enhance their fragrance. Slice the galangal, crush the garlic, and slice the shallots. These aromatic ingredients will form the flavor base of your soup.

Step 2: Boil the Pork Ribs

In a large pot, bring the 8 cups of water to a boil. Add the pork ribs and let them boil for 5 minutes. This step helps to remove any impurities from the meat, ensuring a clean and clear broth. After boiling, drain and rinse the ribs under cold water to eliminate any remaining impurities after boiling.

 Step 3: Simmer with Aromatics

Return the cleaned ribs to the pot and add the bruised lemongrass, torn kaffir lime leaves, sliced galangal, crushed garlic, and sliced shallots. Pour in the water and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours. This slow simmering allows the flavors to meld together and the pork ribs to become tender.

 Step 4: Add Mushrooms and Season

1. After simmering:
2. Add the sliced mushrooms to the pot and cook for 10 minutes.
3. Season the soup with fish sauce, lime juice, and sugar.

Stir well to combine, and taste to adjust the seasoning as needed. The salty, sour, and slightly sweet balance should be just right, enhancing the soup's natural flavors.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro and green onions. Serve with fresh lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of citrus flavor. Enjoy your homemade Thai Pork Ribs Soup hot, and savor the aromatic and flavorful broth.