Belacan (Shrimp Paste)

Look at what i got here? Belacan aka shrimp paste. I love love LOVE belacan. A lot of westerners thinks this product stinks but somehow i think this is the most fragrant ingredient in the world. Anyway, back in NY, i know where to find this piece of ingredient with no problem but it was tough over here especially in the area i am staying now in California. There are 2 asian markets near the place i stay and none of them carry this.

The only way for me to get this is through ordering online. So i rarely cook using this ingredient as i refuse to buy online because of the shipping and the overcharge price. When my husband found out the 3rd Asian Market around our area, we make a trip there and THANK GOD i found this ingredient in one the aisle in the shop. Guess what i do next? i quickly grabbed 4 blocks of Belacan. Best part is that, they only sell it for USD 1.99 for a block of 500 grams. I remembered i used to buy in NY for USD3.99 for a block of 250 grams. Big savings for me and i am a very happy woman today. So the next few days, i will  make a few simple dish using belacan and other ingredients. Stay Tune.

So what is belacan exactly? You can read more from here