Out of Shrimp paste, one case
Vegan shrimp paste substitute for Asian cooking
5 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Miso paste
Same amount as the shrimp paste
The best vegan substitutes for shrimp paste are miso paste, seaweed, or nutritional yeast. Miso paste provides the most similar umami flavor, while seaweed adds oceanic depth.
- Verdict —
- Works
- Best for —
- kimchi
One casethe full shrimp card
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of shrimp paste | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Miso pastekimchi | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 2 | Seaweed (nori or kombu)kimchi | 1 sheet per 1 tablespoon shrimp pasteTweak it | Tweak it |
| 3 | Nutritional yeastkimchi | 1 tablespoon per 1 tablespoon shrimp pasteYou'll taste it | You'll taste it |
| 4 | Dried mushroom powderkimchi | 1 tablespoon per 1 tablespoon shrimp pasteTweak it | Tweak it |
| 5 | Soy sauce + sugarkimchi | 2 parts soy sauce to 1 part sugarTweak it | Tweak it |
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 dish.
- Best for
- kimchi, curry pastes, stir-fries, 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.
- Best for
- kimchi, soups, stir-fries, rice dishes
Toast and crumble for best flavor.
Nutritional yeast
different taste and texture
Nutritional yeast provides cheesy, umami flavor that can mimic the depth of shrimp paste. Add gradually to taste.
- Best for
- kimchi, curry pastes, sauces, marinades
Add gradually to taste.
Dried mushroom powder
similar taste, different texture
Dried mushroom powder provides concentrated umami flavor similar to shrimp paste. Grind dried shiitake or porcini mushrooms into fine powder.
- Best for
- kimchi, curry pastes, soups, stir-fries
Grind dried mushrooms into fine powder.
Soy sauce + sugar
similar taste, different texture
Soy sauce provides salty umami flavor while sugar adds sweetness. This combination can mimic the flavor profile of shrimp paste.
- Best for
- kimchi, stir-fries, sauces, marinades
Mix soy sauce with sugar to taste.
How it behaves in this recipe
Vegan shrimp paste substitutes need to provide the same umami depth and fermented complexity as traditional shrimp paste. The best options maintain the flavor profile while being completely plant-based.
Tips for substituting shrimp paste
6 tips- Toast seaweed before crumbling for enhanced flavor
- Add miso paste early in cooking to develop flavor
- Use nutritional yeast sparingly as it can be overpowering
- Grind dried mushrooms into fine powder for best results
- Add soy sauce and sugar gradually to taste
- Store substitutes in the refrigerator for freshness
Notes on shrimp paste
- Use miso paste for fermented umami flavor
- Try seaweed for oceanic depth
- Use nutritional yeast for cheesy umami
- Make dried mushroom powder for concentrated flavor
- Combine soy sauce with sugar for balanced flavor
Questions
5 questionsWhat's the best vegan substitute for shrimp paste in kimchi?
Miso paste is the best vegan substitute for shrimp paste in kimchi. It provides similar fermented umami flavor and works well in the fermentation process.
Can I use seaweed instead of shrimp paste?
Yes, seaweed works well as a vegan substitute. Toast nori or kombu, then crumble and add to dishes for oceanic flavor and umami depth.
How do I make vegan shrimp paste for Thai curry?
Use miso paste or dried mushroom powder. Add early in the cooking process to develop flavor and provide umami depth.
Is nutritional yeast a good substitute for shrimp paste?
Nutritional yeast can work as a substitute, but it has a different flavor profile. Use it sparingly and combine with other umami ingredients for best results.
Can I use soy sauce instead of shrimp paste?
Yes, but add sugar to balance the saltiness. Use a 2:1 ratio of soy sauce to sugar for best flavor balance.