Name: Laksa
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 3 tablespoons Cooking Oil; 1/2 pack Malaysian Instant Curry Paste; 2 cups Chicken Broth; 2 cups Water; 2 stalks Lemongrass (white part only, pounded); 10 Tofu Puffs (cut into pieces); 1/2 cup Evaporated Milk; 1/2 cup Coconut Milk; Salt (to taste); Yellow Noodles; Bean Sprouts; 10 Shrimp (peeled, deveined and cooked); 3 Hard-Boiled Eggs (cut into halves); Fish Cakes (cut into pieces)

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When I think of comfort food, Laksa always comes to mind. This vibrant and aromatic noodle soup has a special place in my heart, stemming from countless family gatherings and cozy evenings spent slurping noodles. The first time I tried Laksa was at a small, bustling restaurant in my neighborhood. The air was thick with the delightful scent of spices, and I was instantly captivated. It’s a dish that brings warmth and joy, offering a delightful balance of flavors that dance on your taste buds.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
30 mins

Prep Time:
20 mins

Cook Time:
10 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
450 kcal

Protein:
25 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
15 g

Tools Used:
Large Pot, Peeler, Saucepan

Why This Laksa Shines

It’s a Flavor Explosion

The first reason to fall in love with Laksa is its incredible flavor profile. The rich and creamy broth, infused with Malaysian instant curry paste, tantalizes your palate with a perfect mix of spice and creaminess. Every spoonful is a burst of flavor that keeps you coming back for more.

Quick and Easy to Make

Another great aspect of Laksa is how quick and easy it is to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a delicious meal in no time. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you still want something hearty and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.

Customizable to Your Liking

One of the things I adore about Laksa is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences. Whether you prefer more or less spice, or want to add your favorite proteins or veggies, Laksa accommodates all. I often toss in leftover veggies or swap out proteins, making it a fantastic clean-out-the-fridge meal!

A Dish for Every Occasion

Whether it’s a cozy night in, a gathering with friends, or a festive occasion, Laksa fits right in. It’s a crowd-pleaser that can be shared and enjoyed by everyone. I’ve served it at parties, and it’s always a hit, with everyone raving about the bold flavors.

Perfect for Meal Prep

If you’re into meal prepping, Laksa is an excellent option. The flavors deepen and improve overnight, making it even more delicious the next day. I often make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week, and it’s always a treat to dive into a bowl of warm soup after a long day.

Everything You Need for Laksa

The ingredients for Laksa are like a symphony of flavors, each playing its part to create a harmonious dish. The key players in this recipe include aromatic spices, creamy coconut milk, and fresh vegetables, all coming together to make a nourishing and satisfying meal. Let’s explore what you’ll need.

3 tablespoons cooking oil: The base for sautéing, adding depth to the flavor.
1/2 pack Malaysian instant curry paste: This brings the signature spices that make Laksa so delicious.
2 cups chicken broth: Essential for the broth, lending richness and warmth.

2 cups water: Helps to balance the flavor of the broth.
2 stalks lemongrass, white part only, pounded: Adds a bright citrusy note that freshens up the dish.
10 tofu puffs, cut into pieces: Provides a delightful texture and absorbs the flavors of the broth.

1/2 cup evaporated milk: Adds creaminess to the broth.
1/2 cup coconut milk: The secret to that deliciously rich and creamy texture.
Salt, to taste: Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
Yellow noodles: The heart of the dish, providing substance and comfort.
Bean sprouts: Adds a lovely crunch and freshness.
10 shrimp, peeled, deveined, and cooked: Brings a savory touch to the dish.

3 hard-boiled eggs, cut into halves: Adds protein and makes it more filling.
Fish cakes, cut into pieces: Enhances texture and flavor.

Laksa Instructions

Making Laksa is a delightful experience, and I can’t wait to share the steps with you! As you prepare this dish, you’ll find the aromas filling your kitchen, making it hard to resist. Let’s dive into the detailed instructions to craft this wonderful soup.

In a stockpot, add the cooking oil and heat it over medium heat. Once hot, add the Malaysian instant curry paste. Sauté for a few minutes until it becomes aromatic, releasing those delightful spices into the air.
Next, pour in the chicken broth and water. Stir well to combine. Bring this mixture to a boil, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Once boiling, lower the heat to a simmer. Add the lemongrass, which will infuse the soup with a refreshing aroma. Let it simmer for about five minutes, allowing the flavors to deepen.
Now, it’s time to add in the tofu puffs, coconut milk, and evaporated milk. These will enrich the broth, giving it a creamy texture. Stir well and season with salt to taste.
Keep the stock simmering gently while you prepare the noodles. Rinse the yellow noodles and bean sprouts separately under cold water, then drain and set aside.

To assemble a bowl of Laksa, bring a small pot of water to a boil. Cook the yellow noodles and a handful of bean sprouts for a minute until just tender. Drain them and transfer to a serving bowl.
Top the noodles with 2-3 shrimp, a few pieces of fish cake, and some hard-boiled eggs. This layering makes for a beautiful presentation.
Using a ladle, pour the fragrant soup over the noodles. Ensure you add a few pieces of tofu puffs on top for that extra yum factor.

Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade Laksa. Feel free to garnish with fresh herbs or lime for an added burst of flavor!

Things Worth Knowing

Master the Broth: The key to a great Laksa is in the broth. Don’t rush the simmering process; letting it simmer longer allows the flavors to develop.

Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh lemongrass and high-quality curry paste for the best results. Authentic ingredients enhance the overall flavor.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste the broth as you go! Adjust the salt and spices to your preference for a truly personalized dish.
Texture is Key: Achieve the right balance of textures by including tofu puffs, shrimp, and hard-boiled eggs to create a satisfying experience.

Making Adjustments

When it comes to making Laksa, there are always ways to tweak the recipe to suit your style. Here are some tips to help you adjust the recipe to your liking!

Storage: Keep any leftover Laksa in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors deepen as it sits!
Freezing: You can freeze the broth and noodles separately for up to a month. Just reheat and enjoy when you’re ready!

Pairing: Serve Laksa with fresh herbs like cilantro or mint to brighten up the dish.
Veggie Up: Feel free to add more vegetables like bok choy or spinach for extra nutrition.
Spice Level: Adjust the spice by either using more or less curry paste based on your heat preference.

Perfect Matches for Laksa

Pairing dishes with your Laksa can elevate your dining experience. Here are some suggestions:

Spring Rolls: Light and crispy spring rolls make for a great appetizer before diving into Laksa.
Asian Salads: A refreshing cucumber salad with sesame dressing complements the rich flavors beautifully.

Rice Dishes: Serve alongside fragrant jasmine rice to soak up the delicious broth.
Occasions: Laksa is perfect for casual dinners, holiday gatherings, or even Ramadan if you’re looking for something special to break fast.
Seasonal Pairings: In cooler months, it’s a warming dish that feels cozy, while in summer, it’s light enough to enjoy without feeling weighed down.

FAQ

Laksa is a traditional Southeast Asian noodle soup, popular in countries like Malaysia and Singapore. It features a rich and aromatic broth made from a blend of spices, often paired with coconut milk for creaminess. Typically served with yellow noodles, it can be topped with various ingredients, such as shrimp, tofu, and hard-boiled eggs. It’s a beloved dish known for its comforting flavors and satisfying textures.

Absolutely! You can easily make a vegetarian version of Laksa by substituting the shrimp with your favorite plant-based proteins such as tofu or tempeh. Additionally, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and skip any fish cakes. The dish will still be delicious and satisfying, retaining the aromatic flavors that everyone loves!

Laksa pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. You can serve it alongside crispy spring rolls for a delightful starter or a refreshing cucumber salad. For a more filling meal, consider serving it with jasmine rice. Fresh herbs like cilantro or mint can also enhance the presentation and flavor, adding a bright touch.

To store leftover Laksa, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It should stay fresh for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave. The flavors deepen with time, making it even more delicious!

Conclusion

Laksa is truly a dish that captures the essence of comfort food. Its flavorful broth, combined with delicious noodles and toppings, creates a satisfying meal that warms the heart. I encourage you to try making Laksa for yourself; it’s a wonderful way to bring a taste of Southeast Asia to your kitchen. Enjoy the process, and savor each delicious bite!

Laksa

The ultimate comfort food, Laksa is a rich and creamy noodle soup that bursts with flavor. Made with aromatic spices and fresh ingredients, it’s the perfect easy weeknight dinner. Dive into a bowl of this deliciousness tonight!

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Prep Time 20

Cook Time 10

Total Time 30

Course Dinner

Cuisine Malaysian

Servings 3 servings

Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

Large Pot
Peeler
Saucepan

Ingredients

3 tablespoons Cooking Oil
1/2 pack Malaysian Instant Curry Paste
2 cups Chicken Broth
2 cups Water
2 stalks Lemongrass white part only, pounded
10 Tofu Puffs cut into pieces
1/2 cup Evaporated Milk
1/2 cup Coconut Milk
Salt to taste
Yellow Noodles
Bean Sprouts
10 Shrimp peeled, deveined and cooked
3 Hard-Boiled Eggs cut into halves
Fish Cakes cut into pieces

Instructions

In a stockpot, add the cooking oil and heat it over medium heat. Once hot, add the Malaysian instant curry paste. Sauté for a few minutes until it becomes aromatic, releasing those delightful spices into the air.
Next, pour in the chicken broth and water. Stir well to combine. Bring this mixture to a boil, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Once boiling, lower the heat to a simmer. Add the lemongrass, which will infuse the soup with a refreshing aroma. Let it simmer for about five minutes, allowing the flavors to deepen.
Now, it’s time to add in the tofu puffs, coconut milk, and evaporated milk. These will enrich the broth, giving it a creamy texture. Stir well and season with salt to taste.
Keep the stock simmering gently while you prepare the noodles. Rinse the yellow noodles and bean sprouts separately under cold water, then drain and set aside.

To assemble a bowl of Laksa, bring a small pot of water to a boil. Cook the yellow noodles and a handful of bean sprouts for a minute until just tender. Drain them and transfer to a serving bowl.
Top the noodles with 2-3 shrimp, a few pieces of fish cake, and some hard-boiled eggs. This layering makes for a beautiful presentation.
Using a ladle, pour the fragrant soup over the noodles. Ensure you add a few pieces of tofu puffs on top for that extra yum factor.

Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade Laksa. Feel free to garnish with fresh herbs or lime for an added burst of flavor!

Notes

Storage: Keep any leftover Laksa in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors deepen as it sits!
Freezing: You can freeze the broth and noodles separately for up to a month. Just reheat and enjoy when you’re ready!

Pairing: Serve Laksa with fresh herbs like cilantro or mint to brighten up the dish.
Veggie Up: Feel free to add more vegetables like bok choy or spinach for extra nutrition.
Spice Level: Adjust the spice by either using more or less curry paste based on your heat preference.