This Flavorful Malaysian Curry Laksa Recipe (Kari Laksa Nyonya) is like a little trip to Malaysia, right from your kitchen. If you love cozy dishes that warm the soul and tantalize your taste buds, you’re in for a treat! Imagine a bowl brimming with rich, spicy coconut broth, tender chicken, and the satisfying bite of noodles. It’s comforting, delicious, and absolutely perfect for any day of the week. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy night in or impressing friends at a gathering, this recipe stands out.
Jump to:
- Why This Recipe Works
- Why You’ll Love This Flavorful Malaysian Curry Laksa Recipe (Kari Laksa Nyonya)
- Ingredients for Flavorful Malaysian Curry Laksa
- Preparing the Laksa Broth
- Rub Chicken Thighs with Salt
- Poach Chicken
- Shred Chicken and Poach Prawns
- Prepare the Laksa Broth
- Preparing the Noodles and Garnishes
- Soak Rice Vermicelli and Bean Sprouts
- Assemble the Bowls
- Strain and Serve Hot
- Finish with Toppings
- Serving Suggestions
- Tips for Success
- Variations
- Pairing Ideas
- FAQs
- More Easy Soups Recipes:
- 📖 Recipe Card
The best part? It’s surprisingly simple to make. With a blend of aromatic spices and fresh ingredients, you’ll find that this curry laksa brings together the best of Malaysian flavors. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let’s get cooking!
Why This Recipe Works
This Flavorful Malaysian Curry Laksa Recipe (Kari Laksa Nyonya) thrives on the dynamic balance of spicy, savory, and aromatic ingredients that create an unforgettable culinary experience. The use of fresh herbs and the technique of poaching proteins ensures that every bite is packed with flavor. Meanwhile, the rich coconut milk broth adds a comforting, velvety texture that’s simply irresistible.
Why You’ll Love This Flavorful Malaysian Curry Laksa Recipe (Kari Laksa Nyonya)
Kari Laksa Nyonya is more than just a meal; it’s a journey into the heart of Malaysian cuisine. Bursting with warmth and depth, this dish offers a perfect blend of spiciness and creaminess, making it a favorite among both novice and experienced cooks. Whether you’re serving it for family dinner or an intimate gathering, it’s bound to impress!

Ingredients for Flavorful Malaysian Curry Laksa
- 1 pound chicken thighs
- Salt, to taste
- 1 stalk lemongrass, bruised
- Water, as needed
- 8 ounces prawns, peeled and deveined
- 5 cups of poaching liquid (water + chicken broth)
- 4 tablespoons laksa paste
- 1 can (14 ounces) coconut milk
- 1 teaspoon chicken stock powder
- 8 ounces rice vermicelli noodles
- 8 ounces yellow egg noodles
- 1 cup bean sprouts
- 1 bunch mint leaves
- 2 medium free-range eggs, soft or hard-boiled, peeled and halved
- 4 lime wedges
- 4 teaspoons shrimp chili oil
- Crispy shallots, for serving
Preparing the Laksa Broth

Rub Chicken Thighs with Salt
Start by rubbing the chicken thighs generously with salt. This enhances the flavor and helps with tenderness. Let them sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes.
Poach Chicken
Next, grab a saucepan and combine the chicken with enough water to cover it, along with a pinch of salt and the bruised lemongrass. Bring this to a gentle simmer, and let the chicken poach for 15-20 minutes until fully cooked.
Shred Chicken and Poach Prawns
Once the chicken is ready, take it out and let it cool. Shred it into strips. In the same poaching liquid, you’ll want to add the prawns and poach them for just 2-3 minutes or until they turn a lovely pink. Remove and set aside.
Prepare the Laksa Broth
In the remaining poaching liquid, add the laksa paste, coconut milk, chicken stock powder, and a bit of salt. Allow it to simmer for about 5 minutes, adjusting the seasoning to taste. You’ll smell the aroma filling your kitchen!
Preparing the Noodles and Garnishes
Soak Rice Vermicelli and Bean Sprouts
Now, it’s time for the noodles! Soak the rice vermicelli and bean sprouts in boiling water for 5 minutes until softened. If you like a bit of bite to your noodles, toss in the yellow egg noodles and cook for another 3 minutes before draining well.
Assemble the Bowls
Ready for the fun part? Divide the noodles into serving bowls. Then arrange the shredded chicken, prawns, mint leaves, and halved eggs over the noodles. Each bowl should look colorful and inviting!
Strain and Serve Hot
To ensure a smooth texture, strain the laksa broth into the bowls. Pour this hot, fragrant broth over the noodles and toppings in each bowl, making your kitchen smell even better!
Finish with Toppings
Top off each serving with bean curd puffs, fresh lime wedges, a drizzle of shrimp chili oil, and a sprinkle of crispy shallots before serving. It’s a feast for the eyes!
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Flavorful Malaysian Curry Laksa with extra lime wedges on the side. You might also like a sprinkle of additional shrimp chili oil if you crave a spicier kick.
Tips for Success
- For maximum flavor, always use fresh ingredients.
- Adjust the laksa paste depending on how spicy you want it.
- Poaching the chicken is key; it enhances the broth’s overall flavor.
Variations
- Craving a vegetarian option? Substitute chicken with tofu.
- Play with different proteins; fish and scallops can work beautifully too.
- Add in extra vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for more nutrition.
Pairing Ideas
This flavorful laksa pairs wonderfully with roti canai or a light Asian-style green salad. These sides balance the bold, rich flavors of the curry.
FAQs
Q1: Can I make Laksa in advance?
A1: Indeed! You can prepare the broth and proteins ahead of time. Just serve fresh noodles and toppings right before eating.
Q2: How spicy is this laksa recipe?
A2: The spice level is easy to adjust by using less laksa paste or selecting a milder brand.
Q3: What is the best type of noodle to use?
A3: Rice vermicelli and yellow egg noodles are traditional, but feel free to use your favorite noodle type.
Q4: Can I freeze leftover laksa?
A4: It’s best to freeze the broth separately from the noodles and toppings to keep the texture and flavors intact.
Q5: What can I substitute for coconut milk?
A5: Almond milk or soy milk mixed with cornstarch can mimic the thickness of coconut milk, but flavors will vary.
The Flavorful Malaysian Curry Laksa Recipe (Kari Laksa Nyonya) invites you to enjoy a dish full of stories in every ingredient. Each bowl reflects a beautiful blend of backgrounds, cultures, and traditions. Whether enjoyed solo or with friends and family, this curry laksa promises to delight and comfort.
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Flavorful Malaysian Curry Laksa
This dish offers a delightful blend of spicy and creamy flavors with chicken and prawns in a rich coconut broth. Perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings.
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken thighs
- Salt, to taste
- 1 stalk lemongrass, bruised
- Water, as needed
- 8 ounces prawns, peeled and deveined
- 5 cups of poaching liquid (water + chicken broth)
- 4 tablespoons laksa paste
- 1 can (14 ounces) coconut milk
- 1 teaspoon chicken stock powder
- 8 ounces rice vermicelli noodles
- 8 ounces yellow egg noodles
- 1 cup bean sprouts
- 1 bunch mint leaves
- 2 medium free-range eggs, soft or hard-boiled, peeled and halved
- 4 lime wedges
- 4 teaspoons shrimp chili oil
- Crispy shallots, for serving
Instructions
- Rub chicken thighs with salt and let sit for 20 minutes.
- Poach chicken in water, salt, and lemongrass for 15-20 minutes.
- Shred the chicken, then poach prawns in the same liquid.
- Add laksa paste, coconut milk, and chicken stock powder to the broth.
- Soak vermicelli and bean sprouts in boiling water.
- Assemble bowls with noodles, chicken, prawns, mint, and eggs.
- Strain broth and pour over assembled noodles.
- Top with lime, shrimp chili oil, and crispy shallots.
Notes
Use fresh ingredients for optimal flavor.
Adjust laksa paste based on your spice preference.
Poaching ensures the chicken enhances the broth’s taste.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Poaching
- Cuisine: Malaysian
Nutrition
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 120mg