What is this food?
Shrimp paste (bagoong alamang) is a salty, flavorful condiment made from fermented shrimp. It’s usually used in small amounts to add “umami” taste to dishes like bagoong fried rice, kinilaw, and sinigang.
Why it matters to health
Shrimp paste is low in calories and has little fat and carbs, so it won’t add much energy to your meals. However, it’s also typically high in sodium, which can be a concern if you eat it often or in big portions. The fiber content is present but usually you’ll still use only a spoonful—so it’s not a main source of fiber. For everyday eating (3 meals + 1–2 snacks), using shrimp paste as a flavor booster can help make meals more satisfying, but keep portions small so your overall sodium stays reasonable.
Healthier tips
- Use it as a condiment, not as a main ingredient—start with 1–2 teaspoons, then adjust.
- Balance your plate: pair with vegetables, lean proteins, and rice in appropriate portions so the meal is complete.
- If you’re watching salt, try mixing bagoong with calamansi, vinegar, or water to spread the flavor.
- Limit frequent “bagoong-heavy” meals; spread it out across the week while keeping your daily meals varied.
- Stay mindful of other salty items in the same meal (fish sauce, soy sauce, salted eggs) to avoid stacking sodium.
Common Filipino dishes
Bagoong fried rice, Sinigang with bagoong, Kinilaw with bagoong, Ginisang munggo with bagoong, Kare-kare with bagoong, Bagoong rice bowls