Laksa Lemak
Hawker • Singapore
About Laksa Lemak
Rich coconut curry laksa with prawns and cockles — Katong style
How to Make Laksa Lemak (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Laksa Lemak is a beloved Singaporean noodle dish, famous for its rich and aromatic coconut curry broth. Originating from Singapore’s vibrant hawker culture, Laksa Lemak is a staple at kopitiams and food courts, enjoyed by locals and tourists alike. The dish blends fresh seafood, rice noodles, and a medley of spices, creating a harmonious fusion that reflects Singapore’s multicultural heritage. Its creamy coconut soup, fragrant with lemongrass and galangal, delivers a comforting, satisfying meal that’s great for lunch or a hearty breakfast. Laksa Lemak stands out for its unique balance of flavors—spicy, savory, and subtly sweet. The use of local ingredients like laksa leaves and sambal chili gives the dish an authentic Singaporean touch. While traditionally indulgent, this healthy version reduces saturated fat and sodium, making it a smart choice for calorie-conscious eaters. Whether you’re enjoying Laksa Lemak at a bustling hawker stall or preparing it at home, it’s a delicious way to experience Singapore’s culinary diversity.
Ingredients(for 1 bowl (standard kopitiam portion))
- 120g Rice vermicelli (bee hoon) (soaked and drained)
- 400ml Low-fat coconut milk (santan rendah lemak)
- 8 medium Fresh prawns (peeled and deveined)
- 100g Fish cake (sliced)
- 3 tbsp Laksa paste (homemade or store-bought)
- 100g Chicken breast (poached and shredded)
- 1 cup Bean sprouts (taugeh)
- 1 Hard-boiled egg (halved)
- 5 leaves Laksa leaves (daun kesum) (finely sliced)
- 1 tbsp Sambal chili (for garnish) - optional
- 500ml Low-sodium chicken stock (homemade preferred)
Instructions
- 1
Soak rice vermicelli in hot water for 5 minutes until tender. Drain and set aside.
5 minutes
Do not over-soak; noodles should be springy.
- 2
Poach chicken breast in simmering chicken stock for 10 minutes. Remove, shred, and reserve stock.
10 minutes
Use lean chicken breast for lower fat content.
- 3
Add laksa paste to a pot and sauté over medium heat for 3 minutes until fragrant.
3 minutes
Stir constantly to avoid burning the paste.
- 4
Pour in reserved chicken stock and low-fat coconut milk. Bring to a gentle simmer.
5 minutes
Avoid boiling to prevent coconut milk from splitting.
Why This Dish is Healthy
Our Laksa Lemak is designed for calorie-conscious eaters, using lean protein and low-fat coconut milk to cut saturated fat. The use of fresh vegetables and low-sodium broth supports weight management and cardiovascular health. By reducing oil and opting for healthier toppings, this recipe allows you to enjoy classic Singaporean flavors without compromising nutrition.
This healthy Laksa Lemak recipe offers a balanced blend of protein from chicken and prawns, complex carbs from rice noodles, and healthy fats from low-fat coconut milk. The addition of bean sprouts and laksa leaves boosts fiber, vitamins A and C, and minerals like potassium. Using low-sodium chicken stock helps reduce overall sodium intake, making it suitable for heart health. The dish is naturally gluten-free and can be adapted for different dietary needs.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Use fresh laksa leaves for authentic aroma.
- 💡Tip 2: Sauté laksa paste thoroughly to unlock flavors.
- 💡Tip 3: Keep coconut milk at a gentle simmer to avoid splitting.
Storage & Serving
Laksa Lemak broth can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep noodles and toppings separate to prevent sogginess. Reheat broth gently before serving.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 620.0 kcal |
| Protein | 20.0 g |
| Carbohydrates | 55.0 g |
| Total Fat | 35.0 g |
| Fiber | 3.0 g |
