Here’s How To Make Laksa At Home

Laksa is a popular Southeast Asian noodle soup known for its rich and fragrant coconut milk-based broth. There are various regional variations of laksa, and this recipe is a general guide. Feel free to adjust the ingredients based on your preferences. This recipe makes approximately 4 servings.

Ingredients:

For the Laksa Paste:

• 2 stalks lemongrass (white part only, thinly sliced)
• 4 shallots (peeled and chopped)
• 4 cloves garlic (peeled and chopped)
• 1 thumb-sized piece of galangal (or ginger, peeled and chopped)
• 4 dried red chilies (soaked in hot water to soften, seeds removed for less heat)
• 1 tablespoon coriander powder
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon shrimp paste (optional)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

For the Soup:

• 400g (14 oz) rice noodles or egg noodles
• 1 can (400ml) coconut milk
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 pound (about 450g) chicken, shrimp, or tofu, sliced or cubed
• 200g (7 oz) bean sprouts
• 2 boiled eggs (optional, for serving)
• Fresh cilantro leaves (for garnish)
• Lime wedges (for serving)

Instructions:

1. Prepare Laksa Paste:
   • In a food processor, blend lemongrass, shallots, garlic, galangal, soaked dried chilies, coriander powder, turmeric powder, and shrimp paste (if using) until you get a smooth paste.
   • Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a pan and sauté the paste over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes until fragrant. Set aside.
2. Cook Noodles:
   • Cook the noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. Prepare Soup Base:
   • In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Add the laksa paste and cook for 2-3 minutes.
   • Pour in the coconut milk and chicken or vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Add Protein:
   • Add sliced chicken, shrimp, or tofu to the simmering broth. Cook until protein is fully cooked.
5. Assemble Laksa:
   • Divide the cooked noodles among serving bowls.
   • Ladle the hot laksa broth with protein over the noodles.
6. Garnish and Serve:
   • Top each bowl with bean sprouts, boiled eggs (if using), and fresh cilantro leaves.
   • Serve hot with lime wedges on the side.

Enjoy your homemade laksa! Adjust the spice levels and ingredients according to your taste preferences. —Vita Daily