In a large deep pot, heat the oil over medium-high.
Add the garlic, ginger and lemongrass paste; bloom for 30 seconds.
Add the soup starter (or broth) and water; bring to a boil.
Add the noodles and carrots, reduce to a simmer and cook for a few minutes until the noodles soften.
Add the shrimp, spinach and a good squeeze of lime juice.
Season with salt and pepper. Simmer two more minutes, until the shrimp is cooked through.
Add the cilantro and mint.
Serve with extra mint, lime wedges and crushed red pepper flakes!
