Is shrimp paste keto friendly?

Yes, shrimp paste is keto friendly if you choose the right kind. Traditional versions made only with shrimp and salt contain little to no carbs, making them ideal for ketogenic diets. Always check labels, since some brands add sugar or starch.

Are fermented foods keto friendly?

Absolutely. Most fermented foods are keto-friendly , especially when they don’t contain added sugars. Kimchi, sauerkraut, and shrimp paste can offer probiotics and bold flavors without affecting ketosis if you read labels carefully. Shrimp paste fermented with only salt and shrimp fits perfectly into keto, paleo, and Whole30 diets.

Is fermented shrimp paste healthy?

Fermented shrimp paste can be a nutrient-dense and probiotic-rich addition to your diet. It's high in protein, minerals like calcium, and naturally occurring beneficial bacteria. It’s especially beneficial when homemade or sourced from clean-label brands, without MSG or artificial preservatives.

Is shrimp paste the same as fermented shrimp?

Not exactly. Shrimp paste is a ground condiment , made by grinding shrimp and fermenting it into a smooth, pungent paste. Fermented shrimp, like Korean saeujeot, usually refers to tiny whole shrimp preserved in salt brine. Both add umami, but saeujeot is essential for traditional kimchi and has a very different texture.

Keto Fermented Shrimp Paste – Ultimate Guide + 3 Recipes

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb raw shrimp, unpeeled

1.5 tbsp sea salt

Sterilized glass jar

Cheesecloth or fermentation lid

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. Rinse and drain shrimp thoroughly.

2. Roughly chop and mix with salt.

3. Pack tightly into sterilized jar with 1-inch headspace.

4. Cover with cheesecloth or fermentation lid.

5. Let ferment at room temperature for 5–7 days.

6. Replace lid with airtight cover and refrigerate for 2–3 weeks.

7. Blend smooth or leave chunky.

Notes

Never add oil—it can cause rancidity or botulism.

Use only glass jars, not plastic.

Label jars with date and ingredients.

Serve with keto-friendly meals like Thai curry or kimchi.

Author: Lara
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Condiments
Method: Fermenting
Cuisine: Southeast Asian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 tbsp
Calories: 15
Sugar: 0g
Sodium: 470mg
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Unsaturated Fat: 0g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 0g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 25mg