Penang Assam Laksa is a beloved dish from Malaysia, renowned for its vibrant flavours and aromatic broth. This tangy and spicy noodle soup is a culinary masterpiece that tantalizes the taste buds. Here's how to create this authentic dish in your own kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 200g thick rice noodles (laksa noodles)
- 200g mackerel fish, poached and flaked
- 1 liter fish stock
- 4-5 stalks of lemongrass, bruised
- 4-5 kaffir lime leaves
- 3-4 tablespoons tamarind paste
- 2 tablespoons shrimp paste (belacan)
- 200g pineapple, thinly sliced
- 100g cucumber, julienned
- 100g onions, thinly sliced
- 50g mint leaves
- 50g Vietnamese coriander (daun kesum), chopped
- 4-5 red chilli peppers, sliced
- 2 tablespoons oil
- Salt and sugar to taste
Instructions:
- Begin by soaking the thick rice noodles in warm water until softened. Drain and set aside.
- In a pot, bring the fish stock to a gentle simmer. Add in lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, tamarind paste, and shrimp paste. Let it simmer for 15-20 minutes to infuse the flavours.
- Strain the broth and return it to the pot. Adjust the seasoning with salt and sugar according to taste.
- To serve, divide the softened rice noodles into individual serving bowls.
- Top the noodles with flaked mackerel fish, pineapple slices, cucumber, onions, mint leaves, Vietnamese coriander, and sliced red chilli peppers.
- Ladle the hot broth over the noodles and garnishes.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the burst of flavours!
Tips:
- For a richer broth, you can add in more fish bones or heads when preparing the fish stock.
- Adjust the amount of tamarind paste and shrimp paste according to your preference for sourness and umami flavour.
- You can customize the toppings according to your taste, adding ingredients like tofu puffs, bean sprouts, or hard-boiled eggs.
- To save time, you can use store-bought fish stock instead of making it from scratch.
Variations:
- Vegetarian Assam Laksa: Substitute the fish stock with vegetable broth and omit the fish. Increase the amount of vegetables and tofu to make it more filling.
- Chicken Assam Laksa: Use poached chicken instead of fish for a different protein option.
- Spicy Assam Laksa: Increase the number of chilli peppers or add a spoonful of chilli paste for an extra kick.
Nutritional Information:
Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.- Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 kcal
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fat: 10g
Conclusion:
Penang Assam Laksa is not just a dish; it's a symphony of flavours that represents the rich culinary heritage of Malaysia. With its tangy broth, fresh herbs, and aromatic spices, it's sure to transport your taste buds to the bustling streets of Penang. Whether you're a seasoned chef or an amateur cook, this recipe offers a delightful culinary adventure that's worth savouring. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and embark on a journey to discover the authentic taste of Penang Assam Laksa in your own kitchen.
