Laksa Lemak, also known as Nyonya Laksa, is a captivating blend of Chinese and Malay culinary traditions, resulting in a dish that is both unique and deeply satisfying. This rich and creamy coconut-based noodle soup is a true comfort food, packed with a symphony of flavors ranging from spicy, sweet, to savory. Topped with prawns, fish cakes, boiled eggs, and a generous sprinkle of fresh herbs, Laksa Lemak is a bowl of hearty goodness that warms the soul and delights the senses. The complexity of flavors and textures in this dish is a testament to the multicultural culinary heritage of Malaysia.
Ingredients
- 200g of rice noodles
- 200g of prawns
- 200g of fish cakes, sliced
- 2 boiled eggs, halved
- 1 cup of bean sprouts
- Fresh herbs for garnish (mint, coriander, laksa leaves)
- 1 can of coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons of oil
- Salt to taste
- Spice paste:
- 5 shallots
- 3 cloves of garlic
- 5 dried red chilies, soaked in hot water
- 1 lemongrass stalk, chopped
- 1-inch piece of turmeric
- 1-inch piece of galangal
- 1 teaspoon of shrimp paste
- 10 cashew nuts
Cooking Steps
- Begin by preparing the spice paste. Combine all the ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth.
- Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the spice paste and stir-fry until fragrant.
- Add the coconut milk and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes.
- Add the prawns and fish cakes to the pot and cook until the prawns turn pink. Season with salt.
- Prepare the rice noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- To serve, divide the noodles among the bowls. Ladle the soup over the noodles, making sure each bowl gets an equal amount of prawns and fish cakes. Top with boiled eggs, bean sprouts, and fresh herbs. Serve hot.
In conclusion, Laksa Lemak is a delicious and comforting dish that showcases the depth and diversity of Malaysian cuisine. It’s a great dish to serve on cold days or when you’re craving something rich and satisfying. When it comes to Laksa Lemak, the freshness of the ingredients is key. Use fresh herbs for garnishing and opt for good quality shrimp paste for the best flavor. Don’t be intimidated by the long list of ingredients; the process is straightforward, and the end result is worth every effort. So why not bring a taste of Malaysia into your kitchen with this delightful coconut noodle soup?
