Shrimp Paste, Kapi and Belacan

What Is Shrimp Paste?

Shrimp paste is a seasoning paste made from fermented shrimp or krill. It is used for cooking and seasoning in several Southeast Asian countries.

Thai Shrimp Paste

Thai shrimp paste is called “Kapi” ( ). It is used in almost all curry pastes, but also as an intensely flavored dip. Here, you often find shrimp paste in Asian supermarkets in small plastic tubs or jars.

Usage

Indonesian Shrimp Paste

In Indonesia, shrimp paste is called “Terasi”. It is used much like Thai kapi as a strong seasoning in sambals, spice pastes and fried rice. Classically, terasi is often sold as a firm paste or as a solid block. Powdered shrimp paste is a more modern and export-friendly form that is especially easy to dose.

There is also “Terasi Bakar”, which is already roasted shrimp paste. “Bakar” means roasted, grilled or heated over fire in Indonesian. Heating takes away some of the paste’s harsh smell and is a step used in many Indonesian recipes. With already roasted paste, this step is skipped and the paste is ready to use.

Malaysian Shrimp Paste

Shrimp paste is also used for seasoning in Malaysia, where it is called “Belacan”. It differs in taste from Thai varieties because different shrimp species are used.