Aromatic Laksa Sarawak
Translated from Malay, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Laksa Sarawak is a signature dish from Sarawak, Malaysia, known for its aromatic broth and shrimp flavor.
- The recipe details ingredients and steps for preparing the laksa, including the broth, noodles, and garnishes.
- Key components include a special Sarawak Laksa paste, shrimp, chicken, eggs, and various seasonings, served with rice vermicelli.
Laksa Sarawak stands as an iconic dish from the Land of the Hornbills, celebrated for its rich, aromatic broth infused with spices and a distinct shrimp flavor that tantalizes the taste buds. This beloved dish is a popular choice for breakfast or family meals, especially when enhanced with a squeeze of calamansi lime for added freshness.
The preparation involves a specific Sarawak Laksa paste, shrimp, chicken, eggs, and a blend of seasonings. The recipe outlines the process for creating the flavorful broth, cooking the noodles, and preparing the various toppings.
Key ingredients for the broth include shrimp, chicken, and a special Sarawak Laksa paste. The dish is served over rice vermicelli, which is soaked and briefly blanched. Garnishes typically feature shredded chicken, cooked shrimp, sliced omelet, and sometimes 'telur padi' (bird's eggs).
To prepare the broth, shrimp heads are blended and strained, then combined with chicken stock and the Sarawak Laksa paste. A mixture of shrimp paste, belacan, fresh chilies, and chili powder is sautรฉed to form the aromatic base. The broth is then simmered with milk, curry powder, and seasoned to taste.
Serving involves placing the prepared vermicelli in a bowl, ladling the rich laksa broth over it, and arranging the shredded chicken, shrimp, omelet slices, and other garnishes on top. It is traditionally served with wedges of calamansi lime on the side.
Originally published by Utusan Malaysia in Malay. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.