Rempah Paste

Used to make laksa and other Malaysian dishes, similar to Indian masala. Can be bought in stores.

Ingredients

  • 8 shallots, peeled (270g)
  • 12 candlenuts
  • 2 tsp (25g) Belachan (shrimp paste), roasted
  • 3 cm piece fresh turmeric, peeled
  • 2 sticks lemongrass, sliced (white part only)
  • 12 cloves of garlic
  • 3cm piece galangal, peeled and chopped
  • 2 long red chillies, seeded and chopped
  • 10 dried red chillies, soaked and seeded
  • 2 tsp chilli powder
  • 2 tsp ground coriander seed
  • 1 tsp ground star anise
  • 20 laksa leaves
  • ½ cup dried shrimp, soaked and drained

Method

  1. Combine all ingredients in a food processor and puree until very smooth with 1/2 cup water. Store refrigerated and use within 1 week.