Substitute for Prawn Paste: 4 Smart Options
The best substitute for prawn paste is Fish Sauce at a Use 50% ratio. There are 3 other alternatives below, each with exact ratios and usage notes.
Best Substitute
Fish Sauce
Use 50%
Fish Sauce is a workable stand-in for prawn paste. Use 50% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. It still gives the dish useful savory depth. It is especially useful in sauces.
What are the other substitutes for prawn paste?
Anchovy Paste
Same amount (1:1)
Anchovy Paste is a workable stand-in for prawn paste. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. It still gives the dish useful savory depth. It is especially useful in sauces. If you are building the substitute from multiple ingredients, mix it fully before it goes into the recipe.
Dried Shrimp Powder
Use 150%
You can use Dried Shrimp Powder in place of prawn paste when needed. Use 150% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. This option is more concentrated than prawn paste, so small adjustments make a noticeable difference. Texture runs thicker than the original, so a splash of liquid may help in thinner preparations. Texture runs looser than the original, which matters most in baking and creamy sauces. It is especially useful in baking and sauces. Taste near the end and fine-tune if the dish needs a little more punch.
Miso Paste (white or red)
Same amount (1:1)
Miso Paste (white or red) works as a substitute for prawn paste in many recipes. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. It still gives the dish useful savory depth.
What should you know before substituting prawn paste?
Fish Sauce is the easiest starting point because it stays closest to prawn paste in everyday cooking. Use 50% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. Focus on whether you need the closest flavor, the right texture, or simply the easiest pantry backup. If you need a plant-based option, Miso Paste (white or red) is a solid alternative.
How do you substitute prawn paste in a recipe?
Need a replacement for prawn paste? This guide compares 4 workable options for specialty cooking, sauces, marinades, and globally inspired dishes, with quick notes on strength, flavor, and texture. A good place to start
The best substitute for prawn paste depends on what role it plays in your recipe. Our top recommendation is Fish Sauce (Use 50%), which works well for most recipes.
If you need a different option, Anchovy Paste (Same amount (1:1)) is another reliable choice. Anchovy Paste is a workable stand-in for prawn paste. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. It still gives the dish useful savory depth. It is especially useful in sauces. If you are building the substitute from multiple ingredients, mix it fully before it goes into the recipe.
When substituting prawn paste, consider the flavor profile, texture, and cooking method of your recipe. For vegan alternatives, look for the options marked with the vegan badge above.
Substitution ratios verified against USDA FoodData Central and FoodSafety.gov. See our testing methodology for details.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best substitute for Prawn Paste?
Fish Sauce is the best place to start for prawn paste. Use 50% of the original amount and then adjust after tasting if the dish needs a little more intensity or balance.
How many substitutes are there for Prawn Paste?
This page lists 4 substitutes for prawn paste. The best pick depends on whether you want the closest flavor, similar texture, or simply the easiest pantry backup.
What is a vegan substitute for Prawn Paste?
Miso Paste (white or red) is a good vegan option for prawn paste. Start with a 1:1 swap and fine-tune after tasting.