French-inspired Laksa

Ingredients

While the original Malaysian Laksa is known for its bold and spicy flavors, the French-inspired version takes a more refined approach. The heat is toned down, allowing the delicate flavors of the ingredients to shine through. Additionally, we incorporate some French culinary techniques and ingredients to add a touch of sophistication to this beloved dish. We alse have the original recipe for Laksa, so you can check it out.

• 200g (7 oz) rice noodles 200g (7 oz) rice noodles
• 300g (10.5 oz) chicken breast, thinly sliced 300g (10.5 oz) chicken breast, thinly sliced
• 200g (7 oz) shrimp, peeled and deveined 200g (7 oz) shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
• 1 lemongrass stalk, bruised 1 lemongrass stalk, bruised
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 400ml (1 3/4 cups) chicken broth 400ml (1 3/4 cups) chicken broth
• 400ml (1 3/4 cups) coconut milk 400ml (1 3/4 cups) coconut milk
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon lime juice 1 tablespoon lime juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Bean sprouts, for garnish Bean sprouts, for garnish
• Lime wedges, for serving Lime wedges, for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 25g, 15g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 35g, 5g
• Protein: 25g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Cook the rice noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. 2.
   In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, ginger, and lemongrass. Sauté until fragrant.
3. 3.
   Add the chicken and shrimp to the pot and cook until they are cooked through.
4. 4.
   Stir in the turmeric powder and paprika, coating the meat evenly.
5. 5.
   Pour in the chicken broth and coconut milk. Bring to a simmer.
6. 6.
   Add the fish sauce, soy sauce, and lime juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. 7.
   Simmer the soup for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
8. 8.
   Remove the lemongrass stalk from the pot.
9. 9.
   To serve, divide the cooked rice noodles among bowls. Ladle the soup over the noodles.
10. 10.
    Garnish with fresh cilantro and bean sprouts. Serve with lime wedges on the side.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Rice noodles — Cook the rice noodles just until they are al dente to avoid them becoming mushy in the soup.
• Lemongrass — Bruise the lemongrass stalk by lightly pounding it with a rolling pin or the back of a knife to release its aromatic oils.
• Coconut milk — Use full-fat coconut milk for a creamy and rich texture in the soup.
• Shrimp — Ensure the shrimp are peeled and deveined before adding them to the soup.
• Fresh cilantro — Use the leaves and tender stems of cilantro for a fresh and vibrant garnish.

Tips & Tricks

• For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken and shrimp with tofu or your favorite vegetables.
• Adjust the spiciness by adding more or less paprika according to your preference.
• To enhance the flavors, let the soup simmer for a longer time, up to 30 minutes.
• Customize your Laksa by adding additional toppings such as sliced boiled eggs, fried shallots, or chopped peanuts.
• If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the amount of chicken broth or coconut milk.

Serving advice

Serve the French-inspired Laksa hot in individual bowls, allowing the vibrant colors and enticing aromas to captivate your senses. Accompany each serving with a lime wedge for a tangy burst of flavor. Encourage your guests to mix the noodles and soup together before savoring each spoonful.

Presentation advice

Present the French-inspired Laksa with elegance by garnishing each bowl with a sprig of fresh cilantro and a handful of bean sprouts. The vibrant green of the cilantro and the crispness of the bean sprouts will add visual appeal to the dish. Serve the Laksa in beautiful ceramic bowls to enhance its presentation.