Soulful Laksa

Ingredients

While the original Malaysian Laksa is known for its bold and spicy flavors, our Soulful Laksa takes a milder approach to suit the comforting nature of soul food. We have incorporated elements of Southern cuisine, such as using chicken instead of seafood or tofu, and added a touch of smokiness to the broth. This adaptation aims to create a harmonious blend of flavors that will satisfy both Malaysian and soul food enthusiasts. We alse have the original recipe for Laksa, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (470ml) chicken broth 2 cups (470ml) chicken broth
• 1 cup (240ml) coconut milk 1 cup (240ml) coconut milk
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon curry powder 1 tablespoon curry powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon turmeric 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste) 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon brown sugar 1 teaspoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon fish sauce 1 teaspoon fish sauce
• 1 cup (200g) cooked chicken, shredded 1 cup (200g) cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 cup (150g) shrimp, peeled and deveined 1 cup (150g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup (150g) okra, sliced 1 cup (150g) okra, sliced
• 1 cup (150g) bell peppers, sliced 1 cup (150g) bell peppers, sliced
• 1 cup (150g) collard greens, chopped 1 cup (150g) collard greens, chopped
• 8 oz (225g) rice noodles, cooked 8 oz (225g) rice noodles, cooked
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Lime wedges, for serving Lime wedges, for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat: 18g (5g saturated)
• Carbohydrates: 25g (5g sugars)
• Protein: 25g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1.5g

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 curry powder, smoked paprika, turmeric, and cayenne pepper to the pot. Stir well to coat the onions and garlic with the spices.
3. 3.
   Pour in the chicken broth and coconut milk. Stir in the brown sugar and fish sauce. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. 4.
   Add the shredded chicken, shrimp, okra, bell peppers, and collard greens to the pot. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the shrimp is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
5. 5.
   Divide the cooked rice noodles among serving bowls. Ladle the hot broth and ingredients over the noodles.
6. 6.
   Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Rice noodles — Cook according to package instructions and rinse with cold water to prevent sticking.
• Collard greens — Remove the tough stems before chopping and blanch in boiling water for 2 minutes before adding to the laksa.
• Shrimp — Ensure the shrimp is peeled and deveined before adding it to the laksa.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add hot sauce to taste.
• Customize the vegetables based on seasonal availability or personal preference.
• To make it heartier, add boiled eggs or tofu as additional protein options.
• If you prefer a thicker broth, simmer the laksa for a longer time to reduce and concentrate the flavors.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.

Serving advice

Serve the Soulful Laksa hot in individual bowls, allowing each person to squeeze fresh lime juice over their portion for a burst of tanginess. Accompany the dish with a side of crusty bread or cornbread to soak up the flavorful broth.

Presentation advice

Garnish each bowl of Soulful Laksa with a sprig of fresh cilantro and a lime wedge on the side. The vibrant colors of the vegetables and the aromatic steam rising from the bowl will make for an enticing presentation.