This Laksa Gravy is a vibrant, spicy-sweet coconut broth that serves as the soul of many Southeast Asian noodle soups. Made from a freshly pounded paste of dried red chilies, galangal, lemongrass, and aromatic spices, it delivers a complex flavor profile that balances heat with richness. The thick coconut milk adds a velvety texture, while dried shrimp and shrimp paste provide a deep, savory umami backbone. It’s perfect for pouring over rice noodles or serving as a hearty soup with fish balls and tofu.
Laksa Gravy
Description
This Laksa Gravy is a vibrant, spicy-sweet coconut broth that serves as the soul of many Southeast Asian noodle soups. Made from a freshly pounded paste of dried red chilies, galangal, lemongrass, and aromatic spices, it delivers a complex flavor profile that balances heat with richness. The thick coconut milk adds a velvety texture, while dried shrimp and shrimp paste provide a deep, savory umami backbone. It's perfect for pouring over rice noodles or serving as a hearty soup with fish balls and tofu.Ingredients
Directions
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Soak dried red chilies in warm water until soft, then drain.
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Pound soaked chilies, lemongrass, shallots, galangal, candlenuts, and shrimp paste together in a mortar and pestle, or grind in a food processor with 1.5 tablespoons of oil until a smooth paste forms.
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Stir ground turmeric and coriander into the paste.
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Heat the remaining oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
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Add the spice paste and fry gently, stirring frequently, for 4–5 minutes until fragrant.
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Add pounded dried shrimp and fry for 2 minutes.
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Carefully ladle the thick cream from the top of the unshaken coconut milk cans and set aside.
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Shake the remaining coconut milk cans and combine with 3 cups of stock in a bowl.
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Pour the thin coconut milk mixture into the fried paste and bring to a boil, stirring constantly.
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Add fish balls and simmer for 5 minutes.
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Stir in the reserved thick coconut cream and salt.
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Simmer gently until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 8
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 583.5kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 58.0g90%
- Saturated Fat 35.0g175%
- Cholesterol 25.0mg9%
- Sodium 650.0mg28%
- Total Carbohydrate 12.0g4%
- Dietary Fiber 2.0g8%
- Sugars 1.0g
- Protein 18.0g36%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
For a vegan version, substitute shrimp paste with mushroom powder or soy sauce, and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock.
Dried shrimp can be omitted for a milder flavor, though it adds significant depth. If unavailable, increase the salt slightly.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water if too thick.
This gravy pairs well with rice noodles, vermicelli, or as a dipping sauce for fried items.
