Delicious Chicken Laksa Recipe – Authentic Malaysian Flavor

Imagine a chilly evening with a pot of warm, fragrant spicy Malaysian soup simmering. The smell fills your home, bringing back memories of Southeast Asia’s bustling hawker markets. Here, every bowl is a burst of vibrant flavours.

This homemade Chicken Laksa recipe not only warms your soul but also brings back memories of laughter and shared meals. In just under 20 minutes, you can enjoy the authentic Malaysian flavour. It’s a dish that takes you straight to Malaysia with every spoonful.

Key Takeaways

• Serves approximately 6 people, perfect for sharing.
• Utilises bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for enhanced flavour.
• Quick preparation time of under 20 minutes.
• Features a rich broth made with coconut milk and laksa paste.
• Garnish with fresh herbs and lime for an appealing finish.
• Leftovers can be stored for up to 3 days in the fridge.
• Encourages sharing the dish on social media with family and friends.

Introduction to Chicken Laksa

Chicken Laksa is a beloved dish known for its spicy coconut broth and tender noodles. It comes from Southeast Asia, especially Malaysia and Singapore. Each bowl offers a mix of textures and tastes that everyone loves.

This easy laksa recipe lets you enjoy a comforting and bold meal. You’ll need rice noodles, boneless chicken breasts, and raw king prawns. The laksa paste, with dried red chilies and lemongrass, adds a special touch. It’s quick to prepare, with just 30 minutes of prep and 45 minutes of cooking.

Chicken Laksa is perfect for any time, from a quick lunch to a fancy dinner. You can add your own twist by changing ingredients. The aroma of spices will make your experience unforgettable.

Getting started with this soup is exciting. You’ll love the vibrant flavours and how easy it is to make at home.

The Origins of Laksa

Laksa has deep roots in Malaysian cuisine, showing many influences from its history. It is closely tied to the Peranakan culture, born from Chinese immigrants and local Malays marrying. This mix of traditions has led to many variations, each using authentic laksa ingredients.

Two main types are curry laksa and asam laksa, each with its own taste. These dishes show how laksa’s origins reflect its cultural importance in Malaysia and beyond.

In Singapore, a rivalry called the Katong Laksa War emerged in the late 1990s and early 2000s. The original Katong Laksa, started in the late 1950s, is now a symbol of the dish. Roxy Laksa, since 1952, has a recipe that’s been passed down, showing the importance of authenticity in Malaysian food.

What Makes a Great Chicken Laksa Recipe

A great Chicken Laksa recipe needs top ingredients and the right spice balance. The key is a homemade laksa paste. This paste adds aromatic spices and depth, making the broth flavourful. Adding 8 pieces of red chilies and 2 tablespoons of dried shrimp to your paste boosts the taste.

Choosing the right noodles is also crucial. Quick laksa noodles, like vermicelli, soak up the broth well. Adding 2 tablespoons of macadamia nuts and 1 tablespoon of shrimp paste to the paste gives a nutty taste that complements the spice.

To get a balanced flavour, use spices like 1 tablespoon of curry powder and 1 tablespoon of coriander seeds. Include 1 teaspoon of ground turmeric and 1 ½ teaspoons of cumin seeds for warmth. Fresh ingredients like 5 cloves of garlic, 1 chopped onion, and 2 stalks of lemongrass (only the white part) add freshness.

The cooking techniques you use are key to a good dish. Spending 8 minutes prepping and 28 minutes cooking the laksa makes it rich and flavourful. With about 214 calories per serving, it’s a healthy meal option for any time.

Essential Ingredients for Authentic Laksa

To make a real Chicken Laksa, you need to get the right aromatic ingredients. These are the key parts that make the dish rich and complex. Here are the must-haves:

• Red chilies: add heat and colour.
• Dried shrimp: brings a special umami taste.
• Macadamia nuts: make it creamy.
• Shrimp paste: gives a strong scent and flavour.
• Curry powder, coriander seeds, and cumin seeds: these spices are the heart of the recipe.
• Turmeric, ginger, galangal, and garlic: add freshness and warmth.
• Lemongrass and onion: make a fragrant base.
• Neutral oil: needed for frying the paste

The laksa paste recipe needs the right amounts of these ingredients for the perfect taste. For example, you’ll need eight dried red chilies, two tablespoons of dried shrimp and macadamia nuts, and the right mix of spices. This careful mix gives you the authentic taste you’re looking for.

When making the laksa, remember to add coconut milk and tender chicken for a rich broth. The mix of protein-rich chicken and coconut milk’s good fats is great for your hormones and brain. Enjoy this nourishing and tasty dish.

How to Prepare Homemade Laksa Paste

Making your own laksa paste is a fun part of cooking at home. It makes your dish even better. You’ll need:

• Shrimp paste
• Coriander
• Cumin
• Fennel seeds
• Turmeric
• Lemongrass
• Ginger
• Cinnamon

These ingredients mix to create a fragrant base for your laksa. For the best taste, add lime juice, fish sauce, and a bit of brown sugar. This mix adds a sweet touch to the savory flavors.

To make the paste, blend these ingredients in a food processor until smooth. This paste will add lots of flavor to your dish.

Using high-quality products, like Teans Gourmet Laksa Paste, can make your dish even better. Sometimes, a homemade paste can be improved with a few ready-made ones when you’re short on time.

Homemade cooking lets you try different things. You can change the seasonings to your liking, like adding more heat or sweetness. With the right ingredients and a bit of practice, making laksa paste is a fun part of cooking a delicious chicken laksa.

Easy Laksa Recipe: Step-by-Step Instructions

Making a tasty laksa at home is easy with this step-by-step laksa recipe. Just follow the cooking steps to make a meal that will wow everyone.

• 2 chicken breasts, sliced
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 400ml full-fat coconut milk
• 1kg raw prawns, peeled and deveined
• 200g laksa paste (preferably Por Kwan brand)
• 6 cups (1.5L) reduced salt chicken stock
• 250g dried rice vermicelli noodles
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
• 150g fried tofu puffs
• 3 teaspoons white sugar
• 1 teaspoon chicken powder

Now, let’s follow the cooking instructions:

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pot or wok over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
3. Stir in the laksa paste and fry for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
4. Pour in the coconut milk and stock, stirring well to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavours to meld for about 10 minutes.
6. In the last 5 minutes of cooking, add the raw prawns, tofu puffs, fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, and chicken powder.
7. Cook the dried rice vermicelli noodles separately as per package instructions and drain.
8. Once the prawns are cooked through, serve the laksa over a bed of noodles.
9. Garnish with bean sprouts and enjoy your authentic chicken laksa!

This easy laksa recipe serves up to 5 people, perfect for sharing. With only 15 minutes of preparation and 20 minutes of cooking time, you will have a wonderfully fragrant dinner ready in just 35 minutes.

Spice Level: Adjusting the Heat in Your Laksa

Laksa’s heat can be adjusted to suit your taste. Start by choosing your chillies. Different types can greatly affect the spiciness.

For a gentle warmth, try Fresno chillies. If you like it hotter, go for bird’s eye chillies. Knowing how to adjust the spice is crucial for a balanced laksa.

Remember, other ingredients play a role too. Lime juice, fish sauce, and brown sugar add flavour and can soften the heat. Taste your broth as you go, tweaking the seasoning until it’s just right for you.

Delicious Toppings to Enhance Your Dish

Choosing the right toppings for laksa can make a big difference. Fresh garnishes add texture and boost flavour. Each topping adds its own special touch, making your laksa a joy to eat.

• Fresh coriander: Coriander adds a fresh, herbaceous taste to your laksa.
• Lime wedges: Lime juice brings a zesty brightness, enhancing the flavour.
• Crispy onions: Onions add a nice crunch, contrasting with the smooth broth.
• Chilli crisp in chilli oil: This adds a spicy kick, matching the curry flavours well.

Adding these garnishes not only makes your laksa look good but also makes it taste better. They ensure every spoonful is full of flavour. Try these toppings to balance textures and tastes in your laksa.

Serving Suggestions for Chicken Laksa

When serving chicken laksa, how you present it is key. Choose deep bowls to show off the vibrant colours of the broth and fresh toppings. The contrast between the golden broth and garnishes will impress your guests.

Offer lime wedges and extra herbs like coriander and mint on the side. This lets guests tailor their laksa to their liking, adding a personal touch. It makes mealtime more fun, encouraging guests to create their perfect bowl.

For extra flair, add garnishes like crispy fried shallots, tofu puffs, or spring onions. Keep serving utensils nearby. This lets guests try different flavours and makes the meal more enjoyable.

Storing and Reheating Leftover Laksa

If you have leftover laksa, follow these storage tips to keep it tasty. Put the laksa in airtight containers and seal them well. This keeps it fresh and stops bacteria from growing. Make sure to store it in the fridge within two hours of cooking.

For the best taste, eat your leftover laksa within three to four days. If you have more, freezing is a great choice. The broth can be frozen for up to three months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

To reheat, use the stovetop for the best results. It keeps the laksa’s aroma and prevents the noodles from getting mushy. Heat it on medium-low for 5–7 minutes, stirring now and then. If it’s too thick, add a bit of water or coconut milk.

You can also reheat it in the oven. Preheat to 300°F (150°C) and warm it for 15–20 minutes. This way, the flavours stay rich and enjoyable. Always reheat it to 165°F (74°C) for safety.

By following these storage tips, you can enjoy your chicken laksa again and again. It turns leftovers into a satisfying meal.

Conclusion

Chicken laksa is a true taste of Malaysia and Singapore. It combines rich flavours with a warm, comforting broth. This dish offers an authentic cooking experience that feels like a trip to Southeast Asia with every spoonful.

By following this easy recipe and using quality laksa paste, you can make a delicious meal. It’s sure to impress your family and friends.

Chicken laksa is not just tasty; it’s also very flexible. You can choose your favourite proteins and toppings to make it your own. Whether you pick chicken, prawns, or both, you’ll get a satisfying bowl of soup that blends different flavours.

Chicken laksa is more than a meal; it’s a celebration of flavours and heritage. It’s about sharing a meal with the people you love. So, get creative and enjoy a true taste of Southeast Asia in your own kitchen.