Pound the garlic and coriander root together using a mortar and pestle (or food processor).
Heat a pan over medium heat. Add the oil and fry the garlic-coriander paste until fragrant and golden.
Add the white pepper and uncooked jasmine rice. Toss everything together for about 30 seconds to coat the rice. Set aside.
In a large soup pot, bring the water to a simmer over medium heat. Stir in the bouillon cube, salt, and light soy sauce until dissolved.
Add the rice to the soup pot. Cover with a lid and let it boil gently for about 10 minutes.
Add the celery and gently drop the pork meatballs into the pot one by one to prevent sticking. Cook for another 5 minutes, or until the meatballs float to the surface.
Scoop the soup into bowls, making sure each serving has plenty of broth, rice, and meatballs. Top with green onions, cilantro, fried garlic, chilies, lime wedges, white pepper, or chili flakes if you like. Enjoy!