Malaysian Curry Noodle Soup

Step 1

Make the broth. Cut a few slits in the kombu to release the flavor. In a small or medium saucepan over medium heat, bring 5 cups of water (1.2 L), the kombu, wakame (if using), and soy sauce to a simmer. Gently simmer for 10 minutes, then remove from the heat and stir in 1 tablespoon lime juice. The broth should taste like the sea.a. Fit a medium or large bowl underneath a colander and strain the broth, discarding the kombu and wakame.

Step 2

Optional - toast the whole spices. Heat a dry frying pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the coriander and cumin seeds. Cook, stirring or shaking the pan frequently, until aromatic and a few shades darker. Remove from the heat to prevent burning.

Step 3

Make the laksa paste. In a food processor or small-capacity high-powered blender (a 32 ounce/1 L or smaller blender cup), add the coriander and cumin seeds, shallots, garlic, galangal (or ginger), turmeric, chile peppers, lemongrass, cashews or peanuts, soy sauce, cilantro, lime zest, and lime juice. Blend until a paste forms, stopping to scrape down the sides as you go.a. Add the oil (or water) gradually, 1 tablespoon at a time, until a paste comes together (it won’t be completely smooth but try to get it as smooth as you can).b. Tip: Don’t stick your eyeballs directly over the blender or they’ll water!

Step 4

In a Dutch oven or soup pot, heat the 2 tablespoons oil over medium-low heat. After several minutes / once the pan is hot, add the Laksa Paste and cook, stirring frequently to prevent sticking, until it just starts to dry out, 5 to 8 minutes.

Step 5

Pour in the Broth, scraping up any browned bits stuck to the bottom. Add the mushrooms, ¼ teaspoon sea salt, and the leftover lemongrass stalks (if using; see Ingredient Notes). Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer rapidly for 10 minutes.

Step 6

Use a slotted spoon to discard the whole lemongrass pieces, if used. Add the coconut milk, curry leaves, and tofu puffs. Simmer for 5 minutes. Taste for seasonings, adding a few dashes of soy sauce or salt as needed. Taste, adding the sugar to taste.

Step 7

While the soup simmers, cook the noodles according to the package directions. Drain and keep warm.

Step 8

Assemble. Divide the noodles among four bowls. Ladle hot curry on top and add desired garnishes. Squeeze fresh lime juice on top. Add optional toppings.