Laksa Recipe – Brunei's Spicy Coconut Soup

Name: Laksa
Prep time: 22 min
Cook time: 27 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 3-4 servings
Cuisine: Brunei
Ingredients: adjust; bean sprouts; brown sugar; can coconut milk; chicken breast; chicken broth; cilantro leaves; cloves garlic; coriander; cumin; fish sauce; for garnish; for the laksa paste; for the laksa soup; g rice noodles; hard eggs halved; lime wedges; onion; palm sugar; prawns shredded; red chilies; red chilies deseeded; shallots; shrimp paste; soy sauce; tamarind paste; thumb sized piece of galangal; thumb sized piece of ginger; turmeric powder; vegetable oil

Laksa is a beloved spicy coconut soup that holds a special place in Bruneian cuisine. Often enjoyed during festive occasions and family gatherings, this aromatic dish combines rich flavors and textures that reflect the country's cultural heritage. It is commonly served as a hearty meal that warms the soul.

⚡ Medium 🔥 ~400 kcal / serving

Ingredients

For the Laksa Paste:
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 large onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, minced
1 thumb-sized piece of galangal, minced (optional)
2 red chilies, deseeded and chopped (adjust to taste)
1 tablespoon turmeric powder
1 tablespoon ground coriander
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon shrimp paste (optional)
For the Laksa Soup:
4 cups chicken broth
1 can (400 ml) coconut milk
1 tablespoon tamarind paste
1 tablespoon fish sauce
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon palm sugar (or brown sugar)
200 g rice noodles (or your choice of noodles)
1 cup bean sprouts
1 cup cooked chicken breast or prawns, shredded or chopped
For Garnish:
Fresh cilantro leaves
Sliced red chilies
Bean sprouts
Lime wedges
Hard-boiled eggs, halved
Fried shallots (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Laksa Paste

Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat.

Add the chopped onion, garlic, ginger, and galangal (if using). Saut√© until fragrant and the onion is translucent.

Add the chopped chilies, turmeric powder, ground coriander, ground cumin, and shrimp paste. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.

Prepare the Laksa Soup

Add the chicken broth to the pot and bring to a boil.

Reduce heat to low and stir in the coconut milk, tamarind paste, fish sauce, soy sauce, and palm sugar. Simmer for 10 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Add the cooked chicken breast or prawns and continue to simmer until heated through.

Prepare the Noodles

Cook the rice noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Assemble the Laksa

Divide the cooked noodles among serving bowls.

Ladle the hot laksa soup over the noodles.

Top with bean sprouts, sliced red chilies, and hard-boiled eggs.

Garnish with fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and fried shallots if using.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Laksa?

Laksa is a spicy noodle soup with a rich coconut milk broth, flavored with various spices and herbs.

Where does Laksa come from?

Laksa is popular in Brunei, where it is cherished as a traditional dish reflecting local flavors.

What are the main ingredients in Laksa?

Key ingredients include laksa paste, coconut milk, noodles, shrimp, and various vegetables.

How long does Laksa take to make?

Laksa takes about 45-55 minutes to prepare and cook.

What do you serve with Laksa?

Serve Laksa with boiled eggs, bean sprouts, and fresh herbs for added flavor.

Laksa