Aubergine (Eggplant) and Broccoli Laksa

🍆🥦 Aubergine (Eggplant) and Broccoli Laksa: A Flavorful Delight 🍲

What is it?
Aubergine and Broccoli Laksa is a delicious Southeast Asian soup that combines the creamy richness of coconut milk with a spicy, aromatic broth. It typically features a variety of vegetables and protein sources, such as tofu, chicken, or seafood, but in this variation, we’ll focus on the vegetarian version with aubergine (eggplant) and broccoli.

History:
Laksa is a popular dish in Southeast Asia, particularly in countries like Malaysia, Singapore, and Indonesia. Its history is a blend of various culinary traditions, influenced by Chinese, Malay, and Indian cuisines. The word “laksa” is believed to have been derived from the Sanskrit word “lakshas,” which means “one hundred thousand,” signifying the countless ingredients used in this flavorful noodle soup.

Components:

• 1 medium aubergine (eggplant)
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 200g rice vermicelli noodles
• 1 can (400ml) of coconut milk
• 2-3 tbsp laksa paste (store-bought or homemade)
• 3-4 cups vegetable broth
• 200g tofu (firm or extra-firm), cubed
• 2-3 kaffir lime leaves (optional)
• 1-2 tbsp vegetable oil
• Salt and sugar to taste
• Fresh coriander, bean sprouts, lime wedges, and chili for garnish

Steps to Prepare Aubergine and Broccoli Laksa:

1. Prep the Vegetables: Slice the aubergine into thin strips and cut the broccoli into small florets. Toss the aubergine slices with a pinch of salt and set aside for about 15 minutes, then rinse and pat dry.

2. Cook the Noodles: Cook the rice vermicelli noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

3. Sear the Aubergine: Heat some vegetable oil in a large pan or wok. Add the aubergine slices and cook until they’re tender and have a nice golden color. Remove and set aside.

4. Prepare the Laksa Base: In the same pan, add the laksa paste and sauté for a minute or two until fragrant. Pour in the coconut milk and vegetable broth, and stir well. Add the kaffir lime leaves (if using) for extra fragrance.

5. Simmer and Add Broccoli: Let the broth simmer for about 10-15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld. Add the broccoli florets and simmer until they’re tender but still crisp.

6. Add Tofu: Gently add the tofu cubes to the laksa. They will absorb the delicious flavors of the broth.

7. Season: Taste the laksa and adjust the seasoning with salt and sugar to achieve the desired balance of flavors.

8. Assemble: To serve, divide the cooked noodles among bowls, ladle the aubergine and broccoli laksa over the noodles, and garnish with fresh coriander, bean sprouts, lime wedges, and sliced chili for those who like it extra spicy.

Time Needed:

• Preparation: 20-25 minutes
• Cooking: 25-30 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 45-55 minutes

Enjoy your Aubergine and Broccoli Laksa, a harmonious mix of creamy, spicy, and savory flavors, all in one delightful bowl! 🍜🌶️🌿🍋

🍆🥦 Aubergine (Eggplant) and Broccoli Laksa: Nutrition Facts and Health Information 🌿🥗

Nutrition Facts (Approximate, per Serving):

• Calories: 400-500 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 50-60g
• Protein: 10-15g
• Fat: 20-25g
• Fiber: 5-8g
• Sugar: 6-8g
• Sodium: 800-1000mg

Health Information:

1. Low in Calories: Aubergine and Broccoli Laksa is a relatively low-calorie dish, making it a great choice for those watching their calorie intake.

2. Rich in Fiber: This dish is rich in dietary fiber, primarily from the vegetables and noodles. Fiber aids digestion, helps control blood sugar levels, and can contribute to a feeling of fullness.

3. Good Source of Vegetables: The aubergine and broccoli provide essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Aubergines are a good source of dietary fiber and vitamins B1 and B6. Broccoli is rich in vitamin C, K, and folate.

4. Plant-Based Protein: Tofu is a source of plant-based protein. It’s low in saturated fat and provides essential amino acids. This vegetarian option is great for those looking to reduce meat consumption.

5. Healthy Fats: Coconut milk adds a creamy texture and is a source of healthy fats, particularly medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which can provide quick energy.

6. Spices and Flavorings: The laksa paste typically includes spices like turmeric and lemongrass, which have potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

7. Balanced Flavors: The balance of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors in this dish can make it a satisfying and enjoyable meal, which can help prevent overeating.

8. Customizable: You can adjust the recipe to suit your dietary preferences and restrictions. For instance, you can control the level of spiciness, reduce sodium by using low-sodium vegetable broth, or choose whole-grain noodles for added fiber.

Remember that the specific nutritional content may vary depending on the brand of ingredients you use and the portion size. It’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional or nutritionist for personalized dietary advice, especially if you have specific health concerns or dietary goals. 🥦🥗🥥