What Is Shrimp Paste?
Shrimp paste is a pungent condiment made from fermented, finely crushed shrimp or krill mixed with salt, then sun-dried and often aged. It is a fundamental ingredient in many Southeast and East Asian cuisines, adding a deep umami and savory depth to dishes. Its appearance can vary from pale pink to dark brown, and its consistency from a soft, spreadable paste to a solid block.
"Despite its intense aroma, a small amount of cooked shrimp paste transforms a dish by providing a complex savory base that is otherwise hard to achieve."
What Does Shrimp Paste Taste Like?
Its flavor profile is intensely savory and briny, with a powerful umami punch that can be overwhelming raw but mellows beautifully upon cooking.
- Taste
- Umami, Salty, Fishy, Savory
- Texture
- Dense, Pasty, Gritty (when raw, dissolves when cooked)
- Aroma
- Pungent, Fermented, Briny
- Acidity
- Low
Technical Metrics
Nutrition Facts
Per 5gChef’s Secret
Always toast or fry shrimp paste in a dry pan or a little oil before adding it to other ingredients; this crucial step deepens its flavor and reduces its raw pungency.
Shrimp Paste Substitutes & Ratios
The best substitute for Shrimp Paste is Fish Sauce, used at a 1:2 (adjust to taste) ratio. For adding umami and saltiness in stir-fries or dipping sauces, though it lacks the depth and texture of paste.
| Substitute | Ratio | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Fish Sauce Best | 1:2 (adjust to taste) | For adding umami and saltiness in stir-fries or dipping sauces, though it lacks the depth and texture of paste. |
| Miso Paste | 1:1 (use a light miso) | Offers a fermented, savory depth in non-seafood dishes, but will change the flavor profile significantly. |
| Anchovy Paste | 1:1 (use sparingly) | Provides a concentrated salty, savory, and fishy flavor, good for a similar umami base, but is less complex. |
| Salt (with a dash of soy sauce) | Adjust to taste | Only as a last resort for salinity and a hint of savoriness, but will not replicate the distinctive flavor or umami. |
How to Choose & Store Shrimp Paste
- Store unopened shrimp paste in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
- Once opened, transfer any block paste to an airtight container or keep jarred paste tightly sealed.
- Refrigerate after opening to maintain freshness and minimize odor transfer.
- Properly stored, it can last for many months to over a year.
What Pairs Well With Shrimp Paste?
- Chili
- Garlic
- Lemongrass
- Galangal
- Coconut milk
- Tamarind
- Pork
- Chicken
- Rice
- Noodles
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Shrimp Paste taste like?
Its flavor profile is intensely savory and briny, with a powerful umami punch that can be overwhelming raw but mellows beautifully upon cooking. Pungent|Fermented|Briny
What is a good substitute for Shrimp Paste?
The best substitute is Fish Sauce (1:2 (adjust to taste)). For adding umami and saltiness in stir-fries or dipping sauces, though it lacks the depth and texture of paste.
How do you choose and store Shrimp Paste?
Store unopened shrimp paste in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Once opened, transfer any block paste to an airtight container or keep jarred paste tightly sealed. Refrigerate after opening to maintain freshness and minimize odor transfer. Properly stored, it can last for many months to over a year.
