As a lover of Southeast Asian cuisine, one of my favorite funky ingredients is shrimp paste. Also known as terasi, kapi, or bagoong, this fermented shrimp condiment adds a savory umami kick to dishes. But shrimp paste also has a very strong scent So does shrimp paste expire after opening? How should you store it to extend its shelf life?
In this article, I’ll share what I’ve learned about how long shrimp paste lasts, signs of spoiled shrimp paste, and the best storage methods to keep it fresh. Let’s dive in!
An Overview of Shrimp Paste
Known by many names like belacan kapi, or bagoong shrimp paste is a staple seasoning in Southeast and East Asian cooking. It’s made by fermenting small shrimp or krill with salt into a thick, funky paste.
The fermentation process gives shrimp paste its intense flavor. It also acts as a preservative, allowing shrimp paste to keep for a very long time without refrigeration
Unopened jars can last for years stored in the pantry due to the natural preservatives. But what happens once you open it?
How Long Does Shrimp Paste Last After Opening?
The shelf life of shrimp paste depends whether it’s unopened versus opened.
Unopened shrimp paste will keep for 3 years or longer when stored properly in a cool, dry pantry. The fermented paste is quite shelf-stable.
However, once opened, its shelf life decreases. The exposure to air and microbes reduces freshness over time.
Properly stored opened shrimp paste will last 6-12 months in the refrigerator. If you leave it sitting out at room temperature, it will go bad much faster within 2-3 months.
So for best quality, refrigerate shrimp paste after opening and make sure to seal it tightly. Look for any signs of spoilage before use.
How to Tell if Shrimp Paste Has Gone Bad
Shrimp paste naturally has a very funky, fishy smell that’s off-putting to some. So how do you know if it’s truly gone bad? Here are a few signs of spoiled shrimp paste:
- Change in color – Fresh is reddish-brown; spoiled turns gray, black, or green
- Mold growth – Look for fuzzy spots or film on the surface
- Very foul, rotten odor – Beyond just fishy; smells like ammonia
- Slimy texture – Should be a firm paste; slippery is bad
- Bitter, sour taste
If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to discard the shrimp paste and get a fresh container. Don’t risk eating spoiled paste.
How to Store Shrimp Paste to Extend Shelf Life
To get the maximum shelf life out of opened shrimp paste, proper storage is key. Here are some tips:
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Keep shrimp paste in an airtight container in the fridge after opening. This prevents drying out.
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Portion out shrimp paste into small freezer bags if you won’t use it often. Thaw just what you need.
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Use clean utensils each time to avoid introducing bacteria into the paste. Never double-dip.
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Cook shrimp paste before eating to kill any microbes. Don’t eat straight out of jar.
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Add to hot oil when cooking to mellow the odor and evenly distribute flavor.
With proper refrigerated storage and cautious utensil use, opened shrimp paste can last up to a year before going bad.
Can You Freeze Shrimp Paste?
Freezing is another option for extending the shelf life of shrimp paste. To freeze:
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Make sure paste is fresh, not spoiled
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Portion into small airtight freezer bags or containers
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Remove as much air as possible before sealing
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Label bags with date
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Freeze for up to 1 year
Thaw frozen shrimp paste overnight in the fridge before using. Then boil or fry to reactivate flavor.
Freezing prevents bacterial growth that causes spoilage. With minimal air exposure, shrimp paste can last in the freezer for up to a year without compromising quality.
Substitutes for Shrimp Paste
If you open an old jar of shrimp paste and discover it’s gone bad, don’t despair! There are a few substitutes you can use:
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Fish sauce – Add a bit more compared to paste amount
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Anchovy paste – Provides similar umami saltiness
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Miso paste – Use a small amount mixed with lime juice
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Soy sauce – Also adds salty fermented flavor
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Fermented black beans – For Chinese dishes specifically
While they won’t mimic the exact flavor of shrimp paste, these subs work in a pinch. Start with small amounts and increase to taste.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions about shrimp paste shelf life and storage:
How long can shrimp paste last unrefrigerated?
Unopened shrimp paste can keep for up to 3 years stored in a cool, dry pantry. Once opened, it’s best to refrigerate for up to 1 year.
Does shrimp paste need to be refrigerated?
Refrigeration extends the shelf life of opened shrimp paste up to 1 year by slowing bacteria growth. Store opened jars in the fridge in an airtight container.
Can you freeze shrimp paste?
Yes, shrimp paste can be frozen for up to 1 year for long-term storage. Portion it out first and minimize air exposure. Thaw overnight before using.
What happens if you eat spoiled shrimp paste?
Eating spoiled shrimp paste that contains mold or bacteria could cause food poisoning. Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, chills, and stomach pain.
How can you tell if shrimp paste has gone bad?
Signs of spoiled shrimp paste include mold, foul rotten smell, bitter taste, changes in texture and discoloration. If in doubt, play it safe and discard.
Get Funky with Shrimp Paste
Thanks to the fermentation process, shrimp paste has an incredibly long shelf life compared to other perishable goods. Properly stored, even opened shrimp paste keeps well for up to a year in the fridge.
Pay attention for any signs of spoilage like mold, smell, or color changes. Portioning it out into small containers and freezing also extends its shelf life significantly.
So get funky and experiment with shrimp paste in your cooking! With proper storage and handling, this flavorful fermented condiment can add its signature umami depth to your dishes for a long time.