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Seafood Laksa (Malaysian Coconut Noodle Soup)

Yields4 ServingsPrep Time20 minsCook Time20 minsTotal Time40 mins

Seafood Laksa is a beloved Malaysian dish that delivers a spicy, creamy broth rich with coconut milk, shrimp, fish cakes, and rice noodles. Bursting with aromatics like lemongrass, galangal, and chili, this vibrant bowl is finished with fresh herbs, lime, and a boiled egg. It’s comfort food with serious flair — spicy, savory, and addictive.

Seafood Laksa (Malaysian Coconut Noodle Soup)

For the Laksa Paste (or use store-bought laksa paste if preferred)
 2 shallots, peeled
 3 cloves garlic
 1 inch piece of galangal (or ginger)
 2 stalks lemongrass (white part only), chopped
 5 dried red chilies (soaked in warm water)
 1 tsp ground coriander
 1 tsp turmeric
 1 tbsp shrimp paste (optional)
 2 tbsp oil
For the Soup
 1 tbsp oil
 1 can coconut milk
 4 cups chicken or seafood stock
 200 g rice vermicelli noodles
 200 g shrimp, peeled and deveined
 150 g fish cakes or fish balls, sliced
 100 g bean sprouts
 2 boiled eggs, halved
 Fresh cilantro and mint
 Lime wedges, to serve
 Chili oil or sambal, optional
Make the Laksa Paste
1

  • Blend all laksa paste ingredients in a food processor until smooth, adding a little water or oil if needed to help it blend.

Cook the Paste
2

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large pot over medium heat.

  2. Add the paste and sauté for 3–5 minutes until fragrant and slightly darkened.

Build the Broth
3

  1. Add the coconut milk and stock, stirring to combine.

  2. Simmer for 10 minutes to let the flavors infuse.

Prepare the Noodles & Toppings
4

  1. While the broth simmers, cook rice noodles according to package instructions and divide into bowls.

  2. Add shrimp and fish cakes to the broth and simmer until just cooked (about 3–4 minutes).

Assemble the Bowls
5

  1. Top noodles with shrimp, fish cake slices, and ladle over the hot soup.

  2. Add bean sprouts, half a boiled egg, herbs, and a squeeze of lime.

  3. Add chili oil or sambal if you like it spicy.

Suggested Garnishes & Sides
6

  • Extra herbs like Thai basil

  • Crispy fried shallots

  • A cold Thai iced tea or lemongrass soda to balance the heat

Nutrition Facts

4 servings

Serving size