Brazilian-style Laksa

Ingredients

While the original Malaysian Laksa typically features a blend of Southeast Asian spices and ingredients, this Brazilian-style Laksa incorporates the vibrant flavors of Brazilian cuisine. The traditional Laksa broth is enriched with coconut milk and infused with Brazilian spices, giving it a unique twist. Additionally, the seafood selection in this recipe is inspired by the abundance of fresh seafood found in Brazilian coastal regions. We alse have the original recipe for Laksa, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) mixed seafood (shrimp, mussels, squid) 500g (1.1 lb) mixed seafood (shrimp, mussels, squid)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon Brazilian curry powder 1 tablespoon Brazilian curry powder
• 1 tablespoon paprika 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 400ml (13.5 fl oz) coconut milk 400ml (13.5 fl oz) coconut milk
• 500ml (2 cups) fish or vegetable broth 500ml (2 cups) fish or vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons lime juice 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce 2 tablespoons fish sauce
• 2 tablespoons palm sugar or brown sugar 2 tablespoons palm sugar or brown sugar
• 200g (7 oz) rice noodles 200g (7 oz) rice noodles
• Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
• Lime wedges, for serving Lime wedges, for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1880 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 25g, 18g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 35g, 8g
• Protein: 25g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until fragrant and translucent.
2. 2.
   Add the sliced red bell pepper to the pot and cook for another 2-3 minutes until slightly softened.
3. 3.
   Sprinkle the Brazilian curry powder, paprika, and tomato paste over the vegetables. Stir well to coat the vegetables with the spices.
4. 4.
   Pour in the coconut milk and fish or vegetable broth. Stir in the lime juice, fish sauce, and palm sugar. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. 5.
   While the broth is simmering, cook the rice noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
6. 6.
   Add the mixed seafood to the pot and cook for 5-7 minutes until the seafood is cooked through and tender.
7. 7.
   Divide the cooked rice noodles among serving bowls. Ladle the Brazilian-style Laksa broth over the noodles and top with fresh cilantro.
8. 8.
   Serve the Brazilian-style Laksa hot, with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the soup.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Seafood — Ensure that the seafood is fresh and properly cleaned before adding it to the dish.
• Brazilian curry powder — If you can't find Brazilian curry powder, you can substitute with a blend of equal parts turmeric, cumin, coriander, and paprika.
• Coconut milk — Use full-fat coconut milk for a rich and creamy broth.
• Rice noodles — Cook the rice noodles according to the package instructions, but make sure not to overcook them as they can become mushy.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra kick of heat, add a sliced chili pepper to the broth while simmering.
• Customize the seafood selection based on your preferences and availability.
• Adjust the sweetness and saltiness of the broth by adding more or less palm sugar and fish sauce, according to your taste.
• Garnish the Laksa with additional toppings such as bean sprouts, sliced red chili, or fried shallots for added texture and flavor.
• If you prefer a thicker broth, simmer the Laksa for a longer time to reduce and concentrate the flavors.

Serving advice

Serve the Brazilian-style Laksa hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges on the side. Accompany it with a side of crusty bread or steamed rice to soak up the flavorful broth.

Presentation advice

Present the Brazilian-style Laksa in individual serving bowls, with the vibrant colors of the seafood and vegetables peeking through the rich coconut broth. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a pop of green.