Out of Thai shrimp paste, one case
Thai shrimp paste substitute for authentic Thai cooking
5 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Fish sauce
Same amount as the Thai shrimp paste
The best substitutes for Thai shrimp paste are fish sauce, anchovy paste, or miso paste. Fish sauce is the most authentic substitute for Thai cooking and provides the same umami depth.
- Verdict —
- Tweak it
- What changes —
- similar taste, different texture
- Best for —
- Thai curry pastes
One casethe full shrimp card
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of Thai shrimp paste | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Fish sauceThai curry pastes | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 2 | Anchovy pastecurry pastes | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 3 | Miso pastevegetarian Thai dishes | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 4 | Dried shrimp powdercurry pastes | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 5 | Salted fermented shrimpauthentic Thai cooking | Same amountWorks | Works |
Fish sauce
similar taste, different texture
Fish sauce is the most authentic substitute for Thai shrimp paste. It provides the same salty, umami depth that's essential in Thai cooking.
- Best for
- Thai curry pastes, pad thai, stir-fries, soups
Use Thai fish sauce for best flavor match.
Anchovy paste
similar taste and texture
Anchovy paste provides intense umami flavor similar to Thai shrimp paste. It's more concentrated, so use less than the recipe calls for.
- Best for
- curry pastes, stir-fries, sauces, marinades
Use sparingly as it's very concentrated.
Miso paste
similar taste and texture
Miso paste provides fermented umami flavor similar to Thai shrimp paste. Use white or yellow miso for milder flavor that won't overpower the dish.
- Best for
- vegetarian Thai dishes, curry pastes, soups, stir-fries
Use white or yellow miso for milder 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 Thai dishes.
- Best for
- curry pastes, spice blends, soups, stir-fries
Grind dried shrimp into fine powder.
Salted fermented shrimp
similar taste and texture
Salted fermented shrimp is the closest substitute to Thai shrimp paste. It has the same fermented, salty flavor and texture.
- Best for
- authentic Thai cooking, curry pastes, traditional dishes, fermented flavors
Use Korean saeujeot or similar product.
How it behaves in this recipe
Thai shrimp paste (kapi) is essential in many Thai dishes, providing deep umami flavor and fermented complexity. The best substitutes maintain this flavor profile while being accessible to home cooks.
Tips for substituting Thai shrimp paste
6 tips- Use Thai fish sauce for the most authentic flavor
- Add anchovy paste gradually to avoid over-salting
- Toast dried shrimp before grinding for enhanced flavor
- Add a splash of lime juice for acidity
- Use white or yellow miso for milder flavor
- Store substitutes in the refrigerator for freshness
Notes on Thai shrimp paste
- Use Thai fish sauce for authentic flavor
- Try anchovy paste for concentrated umami taste
- Use miso paste for vegetarian option
- Make dried shrimp powder for concentrated flavor
- Use salted fermented shrimp for authentic taste
Questions
5 questionsWhat's the best substitute for Thai shrimp paste in curry?
Fish sauce is the best substitute for Thai shrimp paste in curry. Use the same amount and adjust to taste.
Can I use regular shrimp paste instead of Thai shrimp paste?
Yes, but the flavor may be different. Thai shrimp paste (kapi) has a specific flavor profile. Use fish sauce for the closest match.
How do I substitute Thai shrimp paste in pad thai?
Use fish sauce or anchovy paste. Add 1-2 tablespoons fish sauce or 1 teaspoon anchovy paste to the sauce mixture.
Is there a vegetarian substitute for Thai shrimp paste?
Yes, use miso paste or vegetable bouillon with seaweed. Miso paste provides similar umami flavor without seafood.
Can I make my own Thai shrimp paste?
Yes, but it requires fermentation. For a quick substitute, use fish sauce or anchovy paste mixed with a little sugar and lime juice.