Saute the chopped onions, shallots, and garlic in a large pot until translucent. Then add the water and broth and bring to a slow boil.
While the soup is coming to a boil, mix the ground pork with white ground pepper and thin soy sauce. Once the soup is boiling, add the ground pork mixture and break into small pieces if it clumps together. Cook until the pork is done.
Then add the tofu rectangles and cook for another 5 or so minutes. Then add the ivy gourd or other green leaves and cook for another few minutes.
Taste the soup and season with fish sauce if needed. Serve in a bowl and garnish with fried garlic and cilantro leaves.