Curry Laksa

🧂 Ingredients

• 400 g Dried rice noodles(Such as thick vermicelli or laksa noodles. Soak according to package directions if necessary.)
• 4 tbsp Laksa paste(Store-bought is convenient, or use homemade. Ensure it's a good quality curry laksa paste.)
• 400 ml Full-fat coconut milk(Use full-fat for the creamiest broth.)
• 500 ml Chicken or vegetable stock(Low-sodium is recommended to control saltiness.)
• 200 g Large shrimp(Peeled and deveined. Leave tails on for presentation if desired.)
• 8 Tofu puffs (tau pok)(These are porous and will soak up the broth beautifully. Halve them if they are large.)
• 200 g Fresh bean sprouts(Rinsed and drained. Add just before serving for a fresh crunch.)
• 8 Fish balls(Optional, but common. You can halve them or leave them whole.)
• 100 g Cockles(Optional, cleaned and purged. Add during the last few minutes of simmering.)
• a small bunch Laksa leaves (Vietnamese coriander)(For garnish. Essential for authentic flavor. If unavailable, substitute with a mix of cilantro and mint.)
• for serving Lime wedges(To add a fresh, zesty finish.)
• to taste Sambal oelek or chili paste(For serving, to allow individuals to adjust spice level.)
• 1 tbsp Vegetable oil(For frying the paste.)

👨‍🍳 Instructions

1. 1

   Prepare the noodles: Cook or soak the rice noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to prevent sticking. Divide the noodles among four serving bowls.

   ⏱️ 5-10 minutes
2. 2

   Fry the laksa paste: Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat (around 175°C / 350°F). Add the laksa paste and fry, stirring constantly, for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes very fragrant and the oil begins to separate from the paste. This step is crucial for developing the deep flavors.

   ⏱️ 5-7 minutes
3. 3

   Build the broth: Pour in the coconut milk and chicken stock. Stir well to combine with the fried paste. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the broth to thicken slightly. Stir occasionally.

   ⏱️ 15 minutes
4. 4

   Add proteins and tofu: Increase the heat slightly to bring the broth back to a gentle simmer (do not boil rapidly). Add the shrimp, tofu puffs, and fish balls (if using). If adding cockles, add them now as well. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque and the fish balls are heated through. The cockles should open.

   ⏱️ 3-5 minutes
5. 5

   Assemble the bowls: Ladle the hot broth, along with the shrimp, tofu puffs, and fish balls, over the prepared noodles in each bowl. Ensure each bowl gets a good portion of all the ingredients.

   ⏱️ 2 minutes
6. 6

   Garnish and serve: Top each bowl generously with fresh bean sprouts and a few sprigs of laksa leaves. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side and a small dish of sambal for those who desire extra heat.

   ⏱️ 1 minute

💡 Pro Tips

• ✓Authenticity Boost: Laksa leaves (Vietnamese coriander or daun kesum) are a key aromatic component. If you can't find them fresh, look for dried versions or use a combination of fresh cilantro and mint as a substitute, though the flavor will differ.
• ✓Creaminess Control: For a richer, creamier laksa, use only full-fat coconut milk. For a lighter version, you can substitute some of the coconut milk with evaporated milk or a lighter coconut milk.
• ✓Spice Level: The heat of the laksa is primarily determined by the quality of your laksa paste and the amount of sambal added at the end. Taste the broth before serving and adjust seasoning if needed.
• ✓Ingredient Prep: Ensure your shrimp are peeled and deveined for easy eating. Tofu puffs are essential for soaking up the delicious broth; if they are very large, cut them in half.

🔄 Variations

• Assam Laksa: A distinctly different, sour and fish-based noodle soup from Penang, featuring tamarind broth.
• Sarawak Laksa: Originating from the Malaysian state of Sarawak, this version has a unique spice blend and is often served with shredded chicken and prawns.
• Seafood Laksa: Enhance with other seafood like squid, mussels, or clams.

🥗 Nutrition

Per serving