Croatian-style Laksa

Ingredients

While the original Malaysian Laksa is known for its spicy and coconut-based broth, our Croatian-style Laksa incorporates the flavors of the Adriatic Sea. We have replaced the coconut milk with a creamy fish broth, infused with Mediterranean herbs and spices. Additionally, we have added local seafood and vegetables to give it a distinct Croatian touch. 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 olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 carrot, julienned 1 carrot, julienned
• 1 zucchini, thinly sliced 1 zucchini, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon paprika 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste) 1 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 liter (4 cups) fish broth 1 liter (4 cups) fish broth
• 200g (7 oz) rice noodles 200g (7 oz) rice noodles
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Lemon wedges, for serving Lemon wedges, for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 45g, 5g
• Protein: 25g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté until translucent.
2. 2.
   Add the red bell pepper, carrot, and zucchini to the pot. Cook for 5 minutes, until the vegetables are slightly softened.
3. 3.
   Stir in the tomato paste, paprika, dried oregano, dried thyme, and chili flakes. Cook for another minute to release the flavors.
4. 4.
   Pour in the fish broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. 5.
   Meanwhile, 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.
7. 7.
   Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. 8.
   To serve, divide the cooked rice noodles among serving bowls. Ladle the hot Croatian-style Laksa over the noodles. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Seafood — Ensure the seafood is fresh and properly cleaned before adding it to the Laksa. Overcooking can result in tough and rubbery seafood, so be careful not to exceed the recommended cooking time.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier Laksa, increase the amount of chili flakes or add fresh chili peppers.
• If you prefer a thicker broth, mix a small amount of cornstarch with water and add it to the Laksa during the last few minutes of cooking.
• Feel free to customize the seafood selection based on your preferences and availability.
• Serve the Laksa with a side of crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the flavorful broth.
• Leftover Laksa can be refrigerated and enjoyed the next day, but the noodles may become softer.

Serving advice

Serve the Croatian-style Laksa hot in individual bowls, garnished with fresh cilantro and accompanied by lemon wedges. Provide spoons and chopsticks for a traditional experience. Enjoy this comforting and aromatic dish while it's still steaming!

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation of the Croatian-style Laksa, arrange the seafood and vegetables on top of the noodles in an appealing manner. Drizzle a little olive oil over the soup and sprinkle some additional dried herbs for a pop of color. Serve the Laksa in beautiful ceramic bowls to add a touch of elegance.