Discover the rich and aromatic world of Laksa with our authentic recipe. This spicy noodle soup is a culinary masterpiece with two popular variations: Penang Asam Laksa, known for its tangy tamarind broth, and Curry Laksa, celebrated for its creamy coconut milk base. Perfect for food lovers craving bold flavors and comforting warmth. Try our step-by-step guide to making this Malaysian and Singaporean favorite at home!

Ingredients:

- For the Laksa Paste:

 - 4 dried red chilies, soaked and deseeded

 - 3 fresh red chilies

 - 4 cloves garlic

 - 2-inch piece of ginger

 - 2 lemongrass stalks, white part only, chopped

 - 2 tablespoons shrimp paste

 - 1 tablespoon turmeric powder

 - 1 teaspoon ground coriander

 - 1 teaspoon ground cumin

 - 1 tablespoon oil

- For the Broth:

 - 400 ml coconut milk (for Curry Laksa)

 - 4 cups fish or chicken stock

 - 200g tamarind pulp, soaked in water (for Penang Asam Laksa)

 - 200g cooked shredded chicken or seafood (prawns or fish)

 - 2 tablespoons fish sauce

 - 1 tablespoon sugar

 - Salt to taste

- Noodles and Garnishes:

 - 400g rice noodles, cooked according to package instructions

 - Bean sprouts

 - Fresh cilantro, chopped

 - Sliced cucumber

 - Lime wedges

 - Sliced red chili (optional)

 - Hard-boiled eggs (optional)

Instructions:

Prepare the Laksa Paste:

  - In a blender, combine the dried and fresh chilies, garlic, ginger, lemongrass, shrimp paste, turmeric, coriander, cumin, and oil. Blend until smooth.

  - Heat a pan over medium heat, add the Laksa paste, and sauté for 5-7 minutes until fragrant and the oil starts to separate.

For Curry Laksa:

  - Add the coconut milk to the pan with the Laksa paste and bring to a gentle simmer.

  - Pour in the stock and continue to simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

  - Add the cooked chicken or seafood, fish sauce, and sugar. Adjust seasoning with salt.

For Penang Asam Laksa:

  - Instead of coconut milk, add the tamarind pulp water to the Laksa paste.

  - Pour in the stock and simmer for 10 minutes.

  - Add the cooked fish, fish sauce, and sugar. Adjust seasoning with salt.

Assemble the Laksa:

  - Divide the cooked rice noodles into bowls.

  - Ladle the hot Laksa broth over the noodles, ensuring an even distribution of meat or seafood.

  - Top with bean sprouts, fresh cilantro, cucumber slices, and optional garnishes like hard-boiled eggs, lime wedges, and sliced red chili.

Serve and Enjoy:

  - Serve immediately while hot, and enjoy the rich and spicy flavors of your homemade Laksa!

Nutritional Value

Dried Red Chilies

 - Calories: 282

 - Protein: 12g

 - Fat: 13g

 - Carbohydrates: 56g

 - Fiber: 28g

 - Vitamin C: 143mg (239% DV)

Benefits:

 - Rich in capsaicin, which may boost metabolism and promote fat burning.

 - High in antioxidants and vitamin C, supporting immune health and reducing inflammation.

Fresh Red Chilies

 - Calories: 40

 - Protein: 2g

 - Fat: 0.4g

 - Carbohydrates: 9g

 - Fiber: 1.5g

 - Vitamin C: 143mg (239% DV)

Benefits:

 - Contains capsaicin, which can enhance metabolism and provide pain relief.

 - High in vitamin C, contributing to immune function and skin health.

Garlic

 - Calories: 149

 - Protein: 6g

 - Fat: 0.5g

 - Carbohydrates: 33g

 - Fiber: 2.1g

 - Vitamin C: 31mg (52% DV)

Benefits:

 - Contains allicin, which has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties.

 - May help lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

Ginger

 - Calories: 80

 - Protein: 1.8g

 - Fat: 0.8g

 - Carbohydrates: 18g

 - Fiber: 2g

 - Vitamin C: 5mg (8% DV)

Benefits:

 - Known for its anti-nausea and digestive aid properties.

 - Contains gingerol, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.

Lemongrass

 - Calories: 99

 - Protein: 1.3g

 - Fat: 0.9g

 - Carbohydrates: 23g

 - Fiber: 2.8g

 - Vitamin C: 1.4mg (2% DV)

Benefits:

 - Provides antimicrobial and antioxidant properties.

 - May help improve digestion and alleviate symptoms of stress and anxiety.

Shrimp Paste

 - Calories: 236

 - Protein: 44g

 - Fat: 2g

 - Carbohydrates: 4g

 - Sodium: 3,990mg (165% DV)

Benefits:

 - High in protein and essential nutrients.

 - Provides umami flavor to dishes, enhancing taste without extra calories.

Turmeric Powder

 - Calories: 312

 - Protein: 9g

 - Fat: 3.3g

 - Carbohydrates: 67g

 - Fiber: 22g

 - Vitamin C: 0.7mg (1% DV)

Benefits:

 - Contains curcumin, a compound with potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.

 - May help improve brain function and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Ground Coriander

 - Calories: 298

 - Protein: 12g

 - Fat: 17g

 - Carbohydrates: 55g

 - Fiber: 41g

 - Vitamin C: 0mg

Benefits:

 - Rich in antioxidants and may aid in digestion.

 - Contains compounds that might help regulate blood sugar levels.

Ground Cumin

 - Calories: 375

 - Protein: 18g

 - Fat: 22g

 - Carbohydrates: 44g

 - Fiber: 11g

 - Vitamin C: 7mg (12% DV)

Benefits:

 - Contains antioxidants and compounds that may aid digestion.

 - Can help boost the immune system and improve cholesterol levels.

Coconut Milk

 - Calories: 230

 - Protein: 2g

 - Fat: 24g

 - Carbohydrates: 6g

 - Fiber: 2g

 - Vitamin C: 0mg

Benefits:

 - Rich in medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which may support weight management.

 - Provide a creamy texture and healthy fats for overall well-being.

Fish or Chicken Stock

 - Calories: 5-10 (depending on fat content)

 - Protein: 1g

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 0g

 - Sodium: 500-700mg (varies)

Benefits:

 - Provides essential minerals and collagen, which may benefit joint health and skin elasticity.

Tamarind Pulp

 - Calories: 239

 - Protein: 2g

 - Fat: 0.6g

 - Carbohydrates: 63g

 - Fiber: 5g

 - Vitamin C: 3.5mg (6% DV)

Benefits:

 - Contains antioxidants and may help improve digestion and lower blood sugar levels.

Bean Sprouts

 - Calories: 30

 - Protein: 3g

 - Fat: 0.2g

 - Carbohydrates: 6g

 - Fiber: 1g

 - Vitamin C: 13mg (22% DV)

Benefits:

 - Rich in vitamins and minerals that support overall health.

 - Provides a crunchy texture and can aid in digestion.

Fresh Cilantro

 - Calories: 23

 - Protein: 2g

 - Fat: 0.5g

 - Carbohydrates: 4g

 - Fiber: 1.8g

 - Vitamin C: 27mg (45% DV)

Benefits:

 - Contains antioxidants and may help detoxify the body.

 - Supports digestion and can enhance the flavor of dishes.

Lime

 - Calories: 30

 - Protein: 0.7g

 - Fat: 0.2g

 - Carbohydrates: 11g

 - Fiber: 2.8g

 - Vitamin C: 29mg (48% DV)

Benefits:

 - High in vitamin C, boosting immune function and skin health.

 - May aid digestion and help in detoxifying the body.

Hard-Boiled Eggs

 - Calories: 155

 - Protein: 13g

 - Fat: 11g

 - Carbohydrates: 1.1g

 - Vitamin D: 2.8mcg (14% DV)

Benefits:

 - High in protein and essential nutrients like vitamin D and choline.

 - Supports muscle health and brain function.

These ingredients contribute to the overall nutritional profile of Laksa, providing a range of vitamins, minerals, and health benefits.