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By our product experts at Joybuy, July 14, 2026
A homemade hot pot is, above all, a social and delicious experience. But to make it truly successful and capture the authentic taste of the best restaurants, the choice of ingredients is crucial. Among them, shrimp paste for hot pot is a must-have that can make all the difference. With its springy texture and delicate seafood flavour, it quickly becomes the star of the meal.
The problem? Faced with a multitude of options, especially when ordering Asian products online, it's hard to know where to start. Which paste should you choose to form tender and flavourful shrimp balls? As product experts at Joybuy, we've tested and selected the best options for you. Follow our guide!
Before we get to our top picks, here are the essential criteria to keep in mind to make the right choice, whether you're a hot pot pro or a curious beginner.
It's simple: the most important criterion is the shrimp meat content. A high percentage, ideally above 80%, is the secret to an intense flavour and a firm, springy texture (the prized "QQ" effect in Asian cuisine). A paste with 95% shrimp, for example, guarantees a pure taste and an unbeatable chewiness. Take a close look at the label: it's a sign of transparency and quality.
Some shrimp pastes are plain and contain only the bare essentials (shrimp, water, starch, salt) to let the product shine. Others are enriched with additional ingredients for a bit of variety. You can find versions with bits of bamboo, mushroom, or even a hint of chilli. It all depends on your preferences: are you looking for the pure taste of shrimp or a more complex flavour experience?
For home use, frozen shrimp paste is undoubtedly the most practical option. It ensures impeccable freshness and has a long shelf life. Several formats are available:
Also, remember to check the instructions. Some pastes require thawing, while others can be cooked directly. A real plus for an impromptu homemade hot pot!
Here is a selection of three shrimp pastes that cater to different needs and preferences, all perfect for enhancing your hot pot ingredients.
What sets it apart: A 100% purist recipe with a record-high shrimp content.
FRESHASIA's paste gets straight to the point with its exemplary ingredients: 95% Litopenaeus vannamei shrimp meat. The result: an intense shrimp flavour and a firm, bouncy texture after cooking, just like in a restaurant. Its triangular packaging is designed for simple, clean use: just cut the tip to dispense the paste directly into the broth.
Highlights:
Who is it for? For purists who want to experience the authentic taste and perfect texture of shrimp, without any frills. It's the ideal choice for recreating a high-end hot pot restaurant experience at home.
What sets it apart: The perfect balance of quality, quantity, and versatility.
With 85% shrimp meat, this paste from the Zhenweixiang brand offers a rich flavour and a very pleasant texture. Its generous 250g size makes it a great option for large gatherings. Presented in a convenient tube, it's ready to use and proves to be very versatile beyond hot pot: it can be steamed, pan-fried, or simply poached.
Highlights:
Who is it for? For those looking for a reliable and versatile choice that offers great value for money. Ideal for family meals or gatherings with friends where hot pot is the star of the evening.
What sets it apart: The surprising addition of bamboo fungus for a unique texture.
This shrimp paste from Xianmeilai goes off the beaten path by incorporating bamboo fungus (a mushroom with a delicate texture) into its recipe. This ingredient not only adds a subtle aroma but also a slight crunch that contrasts wonderfully with the softness of the shrimp. Another major plus: it can be cooked directly without thawing.
Highlights:
Who is it for? For curious foodies who love to explore new flavours. If you appreciate complex textures and want to surprise your guests with hot pot ingredients that are out of the ordinary, this option is for you.
Our selection is just a taste of the possibilities to elevate your hot pot. To discover other brands, different flavours, or various formats, feel free to browse our complete catalogue.
? Discover our full range of shrimp paste on Joybuy
1. How do you cook shrimp paste for hot pot? It's very simple. Once your broth is simmering, use a spoon (or squeeze the tube directly) to form small dollops of paste. Drop them into the broth. They are ready when they float to the surface, usually after 3 to 4 minutes of cooking.
2. Should I thaw the shrimp paste before using it? It depends on the product. Some pastes, like FRESHASIA, should be completely thawed in the refrigerator for optimal texture. Others, like Xianmeilai, are designed to be cooked directly from the freezer. The golden rule: always read the instructions on the packaging.
3. What's the difference between shrimp paste and pre-made shrimp balls? The difference mainly comes down to freshness and customisation. Shrimp paste allows you to form balls fresh, which often gives them a more tender and juicy texture. You can also control their size. Pre-made balls are obviously more convenient, ready to be dropped into the broth, but their texture can be a bit denser. The choice is simple: do you prioritise control and texture (paste) or speed (balls)?