Out of Shrimp paste, one case
Shrimp paste substitute for kimchi: Korean fermentation
5 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Salted fermented shrimp (saeujeot)
Same amount as the shrimp paste
The best substitutes for shrimp paste in kimchi are salted fermented shrimp (saeujeot), fish sauce, or miso paste. For authentic Korean flavor, use saeujeot. For vegetarian kimchi, use miso paste or seaweed.
- Verdict —
- Works
- Best for —
- authentic kimchi
One casethe full shrimp card
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of shrimp paste | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Salted fermented shrimp (saeujeot)authentic kimchi | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 2 | Fish saucekimchi | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 3 | Miso pastevegetarian kimchi | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 4 | Seaweed (nori or kombu)vegetarian kimchi | 1 sheet per 1 tablespoon shrimp pasteTweak it | Tweak it |
| 5 | Dried shrimp powderkimchi | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
Salted fermented shrimp (saeujeot)
similar taste and texture
Salted fermented shrimp (saeujeot) is the closest substitute for shrimp paste in kimchi. It has the same fermented, salty flavor and is traditional in Korean cooking.
- Best for
- authentic kimchi, Korean fermentation, traditional recipes, fermented dishes
Traditional Korean ingredient, closest substitute.
Fish sauce
similar taste, different texture
Fish sauce provides the same salty, umami depth as shrimp paste. Use Korean fish sauce for the most authentic flavor in kimchi.
- Best for
- kimchi, Korean dishes, fermentation, sauces
Use Korean fish sauce for best flavor match.
Miso paste
similar taste and texture
Miso paste provides fermented umami flavor similar to shrimp paste. Use white or yellow miso for milder flavor that won't overpower the kimchi.
- Best for
- vegetarian kimchi, Korean dishes, fermentation, soups
Use white or yellow miso for milder flavor.
Seaweed (nori or kombu)
similar taste, different texture
Seaweed provides oceanic flavor and umami depth similar to shrimp paste. Toast and crumble for best results in kimchi.
- Best for
- vegetarian kimchi, Korean dishes, fermentation, soups
Toast and crumble for best flavor.
Dried shrimp powder
similar taste, different texture
Dried shrimp powder provides concentrated shrimp flavor. Soak dried shrimp, then grind into a fine powder for use in kimchi.
- Best for
- kimchi, Korean dishes, fermentation, soups
Grind dried shrimp into fine powder.
How it behaves in this recipe
Shrimp paste in kimchi provides essential umami flavor and aids in the fermentation process. The best substitutes maintain this flavor profile while being accessible to home cooks and suitable for different dietary preferences.
Tips for substituting shrimp paste
6 tips- Use saeujeot for the most authentic Korean flavor
- Add fish sauce gradually to avoid over-salting
- Toast seaweed before crumbling for enhanced flavor
- Add miso paste early in the fermentation process
- Grind dried shrimp into fine powder for best results
- Store kimchi in the refrigerator for proper fermentation
Notes on shrimp paste
- Use saeujeot for authentic Korean flavor
- Try fish sauce for similar umami depth
- Use miso paste for vegetarian option
- Try seaweed for oceanic flavor
- Make dried shrimp powder for concentrated flavor
Questions
5 questionsWhat's the best substitute for shrimp paste in kimchi?
Salted fermented shrimp (saeujeot) is the best substitute for shrimp paste in kimchi. It's the traditional Korean ingredient and provides the most authentic flavor.
Can I use fish sauce instead of shrimp paste in kimchi?
Yes, fish sauce works well as a substitute. Use Korean fish sauce for the most authentic flavor and add gradually to taste.
How do I make vegetarian kimchi without shrimp paste?
Use miso paste or seaweed. Miso paste provides fermented umami flavor, while seaweed adds oceanic depth. Both work well in vegetarian kimchi.
Is there a difference between shrimp paste and saeujeot?
Saeujeot is the Korean version of salted fermented shrimp. It's more liquid than shrimp paste but provides the same flavor and is traditional in kimchi.
Can I skip the shrimp paste in kimchi?
Yes, but the kimchi will lack the traditional umami depth. Use fish sauce, miso paste, or seaweed to maintain the flavor profile.