8 Thai basil leaves, chopped
1 red chilli, sliced, plus extra to garnish
1 small bunch fresh coriander, chopped
2.5cm/1in piece fresh root ginger, peeled and finely sliced
1 lemongrass stalk, tough outer leaves discarded, soft inner core finely chopped
1 lime leaf, shredded
1 lime, juice only
small handful mint leaves, chopped
4 spring onions, thinly sliced
1 litre/1戮 pints chicken stock
50g/2oz thin egg or rice noodles
1 heaped tsp cornflour
1 tbsp Thai fish sauce (nam pla)
toasted sesame oil, to taste
soy sauce, to taste
2 star anise
1 tbsp vegetable oil
200g/7oz chicken mince