Crab and Asparagus Soup (Vietnam)

Amount  Measure       Ingredient -- Preparation Method
--------  ------------  --------------------------------
   6      ounces        crab meat
  18      spears        white asparagus -- peeled
   2                    eggs -- beaten
   6      sprigs        cilantro
   6      cups          Chicken broth -- canned
   2                    green onions
   2      slices        fresh ginger root
   1      tablespoon    chicken bouillon granules
                        salt

Cut onions into 1-inch lengths, include part of the green tops.  Cut 2
(1/4-inch thick) slices from a finger of ginger root.

Bring broth, onions, ginger root, and bouillon to a rapid boil. Reduce heat,
cover, simmer 1 hour. Strain broth. Remove and fat. Note - to make broth
from scratch, use chicken carcass or bones  The base broth should be very
clear, skimmed of fat and strained of seasoning matters.

Add crab to broth. Cut asparagus spears into thirds; add to broth. Simmer
gently, uncovered, 10 minutes.  Beat eggs in a small bowl. Slowly pour eggs
into soup, stirring gently but constantly to stream egg threads.  Makes 6
1-cup servings. Garnish with cilantro sprig.