24    Shrimp

      2 c  Water

           Laksa Gravy
  1 1/2 lb Fresh think round Chinese

           -rice noodles
      2 c  Packed bean sprouts, washed

           Few leaves rau ram (laksa
           -leaf), cut in hairlike
           -shreds
    1/2    Cucumber, peeled, cut in

           -matchsticks
  "Rau ram" has a strong, soapy flavor, but without it, this soupy
  noodle dish from Singapore would lose its unique taste. The recipe is
  from "Singapore Food" by Wendy Hutton (Ure Smith).
  Place shrimp and water in saucepan. Bring to boil, reduce heat,
  simmer 2 minutes and strain. Reserve liquid for use in Laksa Gravy.
  Peel shrimp and devein.
  Prepare Laksa Gravy. Cook noodles in boiling water 3 minutes. Place
  some noodles in each individual serving bowl. Place some bean sprouts
  on top, then add Laksa Gravy. Garnish with shrimp, rau ram and
  cucumber.
  Each serving contains about: 696 calories; 358 milligrams sodium; 21
  milligrams cholesterol; 30 grams fat; 87 grams carbohydrates; 24 grams
  protein; 3 grams fiber.