Vegan Curry Laksa: A Warm, Spicy, and Flavor-Packed Noodle Bowl

VEGAN RECIPES

10/5/20253 min read

Vegan Curry Laksa: A Warm, Spicy, and Flavor-Packed Noodle Bowl

Craving a bowl of comfort that’s bursting with bold, spicy flavors? This Vegan Curry Laksa is your answer! This Malaysian-inspired noodle soup is rich, fragrant, and oh-so-satisfying, with a creamy coconut broth, tender tofu, and vibrant garnishes. Perfect for chilly days or when you need a hearty, soul-warming meal, this laksa is easy to make and customizable to your spice level. Ready to dive into a bowl of pure deliciousness? Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Vegan Curry Laksa

  • Bold & Fragrant: Aromatic lemongrass, ginger, and laksa paste create a deeply flavorful broth.

  • Hearty & Satisfying: Packed with noodles, tofu, and greens for a complete meal.

  • Quick & Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes, perfect for weeknight dinners.

  • Customizable: Adjust the spice level and toppings to suit your taste.

Recipe: Vegan Curry Laksa

Serves: 2
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

For the Laksa:

  • 2 servings vermicelli noodles

  • 2 servings hokkien noodles

  • 2 tbsp oil (e.g., vegetable or coconut oil)

  • 1/2 tbsp grated ginger

  • 1/2 tbsp minced garlic

  • 1 packed tbsp minced lemongrass

  • 1/4 cup laksa paste (adjust to taste; some brands are milder or spicier)

  • 1 (400mL) can coconut milk

  • 3 cups water or vegetable stock (if using water, add 1 tsp Asian mushroom stock powder for extra flavor)

  • 100g tofu puffs, halved

  • 200g firm tofu, sliced

  • 1 tbsp soy sauce or vegan fish sauce

  • 1 tbsp sugar or sweetener

  • Juice of 1/2 lime (reserve the other half for serving)

To Serve:

  • Bok choy or greens of choice, blanched

  • Bean sprouts

  • Fresh chili, sliced

  • Lime wedges

  • Green onion, sliced

  • Crushed peanuts

Method

  1. Cook the Noodles: Prepare the vermicelli and hokkien noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

  2. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat 2 tbsp oil in a large pot or saucepan over medium heat. Add the grated ginger, minced garlic, and minced lemongrass. Fry for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the laksa paste and fry for another minute, stirring to release its aroma.

  3. Make the Broth: Pour in the coconut milk and water (or vegetable stock). Stir well to combine and bring to a boil. Season with soy sauce (or vegan fish sauce), sugar, and mushroom stock powder (if using water). Taste and adjust seasoning as needed for your preferred balance of savory, sweet, and spicy.

  4. Add the Tofu: Add the tofu puffs and sliced firm tofu to the pot. Simmer for 3-5 minutes until the tofu puffs expand and absorb the flavorful broth.

  5. Finish the Broth: Stir in the juice of 1/2 lime and remove the pot from heat.

  6. Assemble & Serve: Divide the cooked noodles between two bowls. Top with blanched bok choy (or greens of choice). Ladle the hot laksa broth and tofu over the noodles. Garnish with bean sprouts, fresh chili, green onion, crushed peanuts, and a lime wedge. Serve immediately and enjoy the explosion of flavors!

Tips for the Perfect Vegan Curry Laksa

  • Laksa Paste: Brands vary in spice level and intensity. Start with 1/4 cup and adjust to taste. Look for vegan-friendly laksa paste (some contain shrimp paste).

  • Noodle Choices: The mix of vermicelli and hokkien noodles adds great texture, but you can use just one type or swap for rice noodles or ramen.

  • Tofu Options: Tofu puffs soak up the broth like sponges, but if unavailable, use more firm tofu or try tempeh for a twist.

  • Spice Level: For less heat, reduce the laksa paste or fresh chili. For more, add extra chili or a dash of chili oil.

  • Storage: Store leftover broth and noodles separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat the broth gently and assemble fresh.

Why This Recipe Rocks

This vegan curry laksa is the ultimate comfort food, blending creamy coconut milk with the fiery, fragrant kick of laksa paste. The combination of ginger, garlic, and lemongrass creates a broth that’s both warming and invigorating, while tofu and noodles make it a hearty, satisfying meal. The fresh garnishes—crisp bean sprouts, zesty lime, and crunchy peanuts—add layers of texture and flavor, making every bite a delight. It’s perfect for cozy nights in or impressing friends with a vibrant, restaurant-worthy dish. Whether you’re a spice lover or just craving something warm and flavorful, this laksa will hit all the right spots. Grab your chopsticks and slurp away!

What’s your favorite way to spice up a noodle bowl? Share your ideas in the comments section on Pinterest and check out the Ultimate Plant-Based Cookbook below!