HON ME Shrimp Paste "HAU LOC": an authentic Vietnamese flavor highlight

Vietnamese cuisine is not afraid of flavors – they are rich, concentrated and often unexpected. One of the most prominent ingredients is the fermented shrimp paste known as mắm tôm. HON ME “HAU LOC” version is a classic, strong-character and deep-rooted paste that is used as a flavor base, condiment or even the heart of a sauce.

What is Hau Loc shrimp paste?

Hau Loc is a region in northern Vietnam famous for its high-quality fermented shrimp paste. This is not a random name, but a mark of quality for the area. HON ME shrimp paste is produced according to the principles of this region:

• Small shrimp (usually wild) are used;

• Mixed with salt and fermented in clay pots;

• It is aged for several months until a specific, intense flavor is achieved.

It's an ingredient that may be unexpected when you first taste it, but it's indispensable for those who want real, authentic Vietnamese cuisine.

Taste, smell, texture – all the power in one spoon

HON ME “Hau Loc” has all the characteristics of mắm tôm paste:

• The smell is intense, fermented, and bold. It immediately gives away that this is not a neutral flavor additive.

• The taste is salty, deep, full of umami, with notes of fish and the sea.

• Texture – thick, homogeneous, dark purple, sticky.

It is a condiment that is not meant to be eaten pure, but a small amount of it can fundamentally change the character of the entire dish.

Where and how to use Hau Loc paste?

Although at first glance this product may seem difficult to apply, it is actually very versatile:

• For sauces: mixed with lemon juice, sugar, chili and garlic – you get the classic mắm tôm chấm sauce (used with bún đậu or grilled meat);

• For soups and stews: a small spoonful of paste adds depth to the broth;

• For marinades: together with garlic, sugar and oil - perfect for preparing pork or beef;

• When frying in a wok: used as a flavor base along with green onions and chili.

This paste requires caution in terms of quantity, but it pays off with its exceptional flavor.

Authentic taste – not for everyone, but for true connoisseurs

Fermented shrimp paste is a “love it or leave it” product. However, if you like fish sauce, nam pla or belachan, this ingredient will become a new favorite on your shelf. The HON ME version is especially appreciated for:

• Clean ingredients – only shrimp, salt and a natural fermentation process;

• Stable odor – intense, but not “rotten”;

• Long shelf life – due to its saltiness and fermentation, it is a long-lasting product.

Who is this product for?

HON ME "HAU LOC" is for those who:

• Creates or recreates authentic Vietnamese dishes;

• Likes concentrated, bright flavors;

• Experiments with Asian cuisine ingredients without compromise;

• You want to deepen your culinary repertoire, not superficially, but in essence.

Summary

HON ME Shrimp Paste "HAU LOC" is a real flavor enhancer, not for everyone, but for those who appreciate the true character of Asian cuisine. It is fragrant, salty, fermented - designed not to please, but to highlight. If you want your dishes to sound authentic and have depth - this paste will become a secret ingredient in your kitchen that you will use again and again.