Dried prawn (shrimp) paste

Dried prawn paste is typically sold in the form of rectangular blocks. Be warned that its pungent fishy smell intensifies with dry-roasting, which is often necessary before use. When it has been mixed with some pounded chillies and lime juice, however, the transformation is remarkable. The dried prawn paste becomes an enticing flavouring agent and the mixture makes a great side dip, known as sambal belacan in Malaysia and Singapore. The paste is often also added in small quantities to stir-fried dishes and thick, curried stews.