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Laksa is a popular and flavorful noodle soup that originated from the Peranakan culture, which is a fusion of Chinese and Indonesian/Malay influences.

Found in many regions across Southeast Asia, Curry Laksa and Katong Laksa are the most common versions found in Singapore.

Laksa is characterized by its rich and aromatic spicy coconut milk broth. Rice noodles, tofu puffs, prawns, bean sprouts, fish cakes, and cockles are typically added to the soup. The garnish on top is finely chopped laksa leaves.

Typical Ingredients

• Rice noodles

• Coconut milk

• Laksa paste (made from a blend of spices such as lemongrass, galangal, chili, shrimp paste, and turmeric)

• Tofu Puffs / Tau Pok (deep fried pieces of pure bean curd)

• Bean sprouts / Tau Gay

• Fish cakes (fish puree mixed with tapioca starch, arrowroot flour, or cornstarch)

• Cockles

• Prawns

• Chicken

• Laksa leaves (Vietnamese coriander, daun kesum)

• Hard-boiled eggs (optional)

• Lime wedges (for garnish)

Potential Allergens

• Gluten: Rice noodles are typically used for laksa, but some hawkers will use wheat noodles instead. Be sure to check that soy sauce in not an ingredient in the broth. Most laksa recipes are gluten-free by ingredients, but cross contamination and local variations present a significant risk.

• Dairy: Laksa broth uses coconut milk and all ingredients are generally dairy-free.

• Soy: Tofu puffs are a common topping.

• Shellfish & Seafood: Prawns (shrimp), cockles and fish cake slices are often added to the soup.

• Eggs: often added as a garnish.

• Nuts: Peanuts, tree nuts, and sesame are not typically common ingredients.

• Vegetarian & Vegan: Laksa paste used in the broth commonly contains shrimp/prawns. Common add-ins include fish balls, shrimp, cockles, and chicken. Plant-based laksa paste is available (see link below).

Substitutions & Adaptions

Laksa is easy to make at home if using a premade laksa paste. Making laksa entirely from scratch with take much more time and commitment.

Although laksa typically does not contain gluten, dairy, or nut ingredients, cross contamination and undeclared ingredients can sneak in at hawker stalls.

Recipes Links

Malaysian Curry Laksa (King Prawns and Chicken Laksa) by Healthy GF Asian

Katong Laksa by Marion's Kitchen (recipe and video)

Nonya Laksa from scratch by The Meatmen

Product Links

New Moon Singapore Laksa Paste

Mekhala Living Vegan Laksa Paste

Prima Taste Laksa Kit

Gluten-Free Resources

Singapore Travel Guide

Planning a trip to Singapore? Ensure a stress-free journey with The Gluten-Free Traveler's Guide to Navigating Singapore. This essential guide is packed with vital information you'll need before you arrive. Get your copy now and discover where gluten hides, empowering you to enjoy your travels to the fullest.

Gluten-Free Online Courses
Are you embarking on a gluten-free transformation and feeling a bit overwhelmed? We've been there and want to lend a hand! Introducing our Gluten-Free Made Easy online course – your ultimate guide to taking control of your kitchen and adapting to a gluten-free lifestyle with confidence. Let us empower you on this journey towards better health and wellness. Join us now and start your gluten-free life with ease!

Disclaimer

Please note that the information provided in this blog post is intended to be helpful and informative based on our understanding and experience as gluten-free educators living in Singapore.

However, ingredients and preparation methods may vary among different restaurants and regions. It is essential to exercise caution and conduct due diligence when ordering food, especially if you or your loved ones have specific dietary requirements such as celiac disease or gluten intolerance.

Always communicate your dietary needs clearly to restaurant staff and inquire about ingredients and potential cross-contamination risks.

While we strive to provide accurate information, we cannot guarantee the absolute safety of any dish, and individual experiences may vary. We encourage you to make informed decisions and prioritize your health and well-being when enjoying Singaporean cuisine.

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