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Thai Shrimp Paste Dip

A flavorful Thai dip combining shrimp paste, garlic, lime juice, and chilies that pairs perfectly with various dishes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: Thai
Calories: 120
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 tablespoons dried shrimp Look for high-quality dried shrimp; they’ll be more flavorful.
  • 2-3 cloves garlic Fresh is always better! Crush them for a more robust flavor.
  • Thai chilies to taste Thai chilies Adjust according to your spice preference.
  • 1.5 tablespoons finely chopped palm sugar Brown sugar can be used as a substitute.
  • 2 tablespoons shrimp paste Look for high-quality shrimp paste for the best flavor.
  • 3-4 tablespoons lime juice Freshly squeezed is ideal.
  • 1-2 teaspoons fish sauce Careful, it’s salty!
  • 2-3 tablespoons water To achieve your desired consistency.
  • Extra optional chopped red and green peppers For color and mild crunch.
For Serving
  • jasmine rice A fragrant pair to soak up the dip’s richness.
  • steamed or raw veggies Cucumbers, carrots, and bell peppers are great options.
  • pan-fried mackerel A classic Thai pairing offering crunch and richness.
  • vegetable omelette Adds protein and complements flavors.
  • boiled eggs Comforting addition to balance spice.
  • Japanese eggplant slices Adds a delightful twist and texture.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Cover the dried shrimp in water and microwave for 30 seconds until the water is steaming hot. Let it cool for a few minutes.
  2. Drain the dried shrimp and place it in a mortar and pestle. Pound it lightly until it breaks into small, fluffy bits—about 1 minute.
  3. Toss in the garlic and chilies, and continue to pound until the mixture is fine and aromatic, approximately 2-3 minutes.
  4. Add the finely chopped palm sugar and pound until it’s mostly dissolved in the mixture—aim for another minute.
  5. Add the shrimp paste. Pound and mix it until there are no clumps—this will take about 1-2 minutes.
  6. Start mixing in the lime juice and fish sauce, adding water gradually for your preferred dip consistency—this should be 1-2 minutes.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary.
  8. Spoon the dip into a bowl and pair it with jasmine rice and your choice of accompaniments.

Notes

For best flavor, serve slightly chilled. This dip can last in the fridge for 3-5 days. Adjust lime juice and chilies based on your preference.