Is it worth making Tom Yum paste or is a packet/jar of ready made stuff just as good?!

Best Answer - Chosen by Voters

the paste is probably the best option. you can buy it here:
http://importfood.com/salo1002.html

if you want an authentic recipe for Tom Yum Goong, try this recipe at AsianSupper.com
http://asiansupper.com/recipe/tom-yum-go…

Figure once you have rounded up all the ingredients, like lemongrass, Kaffir lime leaves and the chili's, it is simpler and quicker to buy a jar, plus you will have a smaller amount to, and if your not making a soup pot every day and it keeps for months in the frig, I have one now along with a Laksa and Pho base, so why trudge all over, save the time and hassle.

I buy fairly large shrimp, tinned straw mushrooms, but fresh shiitake or dried will do, I add more hot chili's to mine and fresh lime juice to finish, I would say play with your seasonings and the meats or fish you use to make it unique to you.