Belacan
Hawker • Singapore
About Belacan
Fermented shrimp paste — essential Southeast Asian condiment. Tiny amount packs intense umami.
How to Make Belacan (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Belacan is a quintessential ingredient and snack in Singaporean cuisine, celebrated for its bold umami flavor and aromatic punch. This fermented shrimp paste is a staple in kopitiams and hawker stalls across the island, often served as a condiment or used to add depth to a variety of dishes. In Singapore’s vibrant hawker culture, belacan is commonly toasted and blended into sambal belacan, a spicy dip that brings out the best in local dishes like nasi lemak and fried rice. The fusion of flavors in Singaporean belacan reflects the city’s multicultural heritage, blending Malay, Chinese, and Peranakan influences into a uniquely Singaporean taste profile. What makes belacan truly special is its versatility and ability to elevate simple snacks or main courses. The aroma of toasted belacan often wafts through hawker centres, instantly recognizable to locals and food lovers alike. This healthy, home-prepared version uses less oil and salt, ensuring you enjoy all the authentic flavors while keeping an eye on your calorie intake. Whether enjoyed as a dip with fresh cucumber, a seasoning for grilled seafood, or a bold snack on its own, homemade belacan is a great addition to your Singaporean kitchen repertoire.
Ingredients(for 2 tablespoons (approx. 40g) per serving)
- 40g Belacan (shrimp paste) (toasted, locally sourced)
- 4 Fresh red chillies (sliced)
- 2 Calamansi lime (juiced)
- 2 cloves Garlic (peeled)
- 2 Shallots (peeled)
- 1/2 teaspoon Sugar (preferably brown or palm sugar)
- 1/4 teaspoon Salt (reduce for lower sodium) - optional
- 1 teaspoon Cooking oil (canola or olive oil)
- 1/2 cup Fresh cucumber sticks (for serving) - optional
Instructions
- 1
Toast the belacan in a dry pan over low heat for 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Use a spatula to press and break it up. Open windows or use good ventilation.
3 minutes
Toasting belacan intensifies its flavor and reduces pungency.
- 2
Add the toasted belacan, chillies, garlic, and shallots to a mortar and pestle. Pound until a coarse paste forms.
5 minutes
Traditional pounding releases more aroma and texture than blending.
- 3
Transfer the mixture to a bowl. Stir in sugar, salt, and lime juice. Mix well to balance flavors.
2 minutes
Adjust lime juice for desired tanginess.
- 4
Heat oil in a small pan over medium heat. Add the belacan mixture and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until slightly caramelized and aromatic.
3 minutes
A quick fry deepens the umami while keeping oil low.
Why This Dish is Healthy
By toasting and stir-frying with just a teaspoon of oil, this belacan recipe cuts down on unnecessary fat and calories. The use of fresh aromatics and reduced salt means you enjoy all the authentic flavor without excess sodium or preservatives. Enjoying belacan as a dip with fresh vegetables makes it a smart, low-calorie snack option, perfect for anyone looking to eat healthier while still savoring Singapore’s iconic tastes.
This healthy belacan recipe is rich in protein from the shrimp paste, while the addition of fresh chillies, shallots, and garlic offers vitamins C and antioxidants. Using minimal oil and salt keeps the calorie and sodium content lower than commercial versions. The lime juice provides vitamin C and a refreshing zest, while cucumber sticks add fiber and hydration when served as a snack. Overall, this condiment packs flavor with limited fat and carbohydrate content, making it suitable for calorie-conscious diets.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Toast belacan in a well-ventilated area to reduce lingering aroma indoors.
- 💡Tip 2: Use a mortar and pestle for authentic texture and flavor release.
- 💡Tip 3: Adjust the amount of lime juice and chilies to suit your preferred level of tang and heat.
Storage & Serving
Store leftover belacan in a clean, airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze portions in small containers and thaw as needed.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 15.0 kcal |
| Protein | 3.0 g |
| Carbohydrates | 0.0 g |
| Total Fat | 0.0 g |
| Fiber | 0.0 g |
