Get ready to dive into a bowl of Spicy Chicken Laksa Soup that’s bursting with flavors and guaranteed to warm your soul. This recipe is a perfect blend of spicy, sweet, and savory, making it a must-try for any food lover.
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of coconut milk and chicken broth creates a rich and creamy base that’s irresistibly delicious.
- Using fresh herbs and spices ensures the soup is packed with authentic flavors that store-bought versions can’t match.
- It’s a versatile recipe that allows for easy customization based on your spice tolerance and ingredient preferences.
- Perfect for meal prep, as the flavors deepen when stored, making leftovers even more tasty.
- A one-pot wonder that simplifies cleanup without compromising on taste.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 lb chicken breast, thinly sliced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 2 tbsp laksa paste
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp fish sauce
- 1 cup rice noodles
- 1 cup bean sprouts
- 1/2 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
Equipment Needed
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Chicken
Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced chicken breast and sauté until it’s no longer pink, about 5 minutes. This step ensures your chicken is perfectly cooked and ready to absorb all the delicious flavors of the soup.
Step 2: Build the Flavor Base
Add the laksa paste to the pot and stir it with the chicken for about 2 minutes until fragrant. This releases the oils in the paste, deepening the flavor of your soup. Then, pour in the chicken broth and coconut milk, stirring to combine.
Step 3: Simmer to Perfection
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Add the brown sugar and fish sauce, adjusting the seasoning to taste.
Step 4: Add the Noodles
Add the rice noodles to the pot and cook according to package instructions, usually about 3-4 minutes. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become mushy.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Divide the soup among bowls and top with bean sprouts and cilantro. Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra zing. Squeezing lime juice over the soup just before eating enhances all the flavors.
Tips and Tricks
For an even more flavorful soup, consider making your own laksa paste from scratch. It’s a bit of work, but the difference in taste is remarkable. If you’re short on time, a high-quality store-bought paste will do just fine. Another tip is to toast the spices in the laksa paste before adding them to the pot; this step can elevate the dish to new heights. Lastly, if you prefer a thicker soup, you can simmer it for a few extra minutes to reduce the liquid.
Recipe Variations
- For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken with tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Add shrimp or fish for a seafood twist on this classic dish.
- If you like it extra spicy, add sliced fresh chili peppers or a dash of chili oil.
- Swap rice noodles for egg noodles or even spaghetti for a different texture.
- Include additional vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition and color.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup actually tastes better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat it on the stove or in the microwave when ready to serve.
Is there a substitute for laksa paste?
If you can’t find laksa paste, you can use red curry paste as a substitute. The flavor profile will be slightly different, but it will still result in a delicious soup. Adjust the amount to taste, as curry pastes can vary in spiciness.
How can I make the soup less spicy?
To tone down the heat, reduce the amount of laksa paste or remove the seeds from the paste before adding it to the pot. You can also add more coconut milk to dilute the spiciness.
Summary
This Spicy Chicken Laksa Soup is a flavorful, comforting dish that’s perfect for any day of the week. With its rich coconut milk base, tender chicken, and aromatic spices, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
