The Asian Larder

What Is Bagoong (Filipino Shrimp Paste)?

Bagoong is a Filipino fermented shrimp or fish paste, salty and deeply savoury, used as both a cooking ingredient and a condiment. It comes in a few regional styles, from a coarser, saltier shrimp paste to a smoother, sweeter version, and is central to dishes like Bicol Express.

How to use it

FAQ

Is bagoong the same as shrimp paste used in other Southeast Asian cooking?

It is closely related to shrimp pastes used elsewhere in Southeast Asia, though Filipino bagoong varies by region and is often less pungent than some other styles.

Is bagoong very salty?

Yes, it is used sparingly as a seasoning rather than a main ingredient, much like other fermented pastes.

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Huì

Huì

Huì is a Beijing-born chef working in the UK. She writes The Asian Larder, with tested Asian recipes for British home cooks and honest advice on where to buy every ingredient.
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