Cincalok

Cincalok (or Chinchalok/Cencaluk) is a Malaccan/Penang food (see Cuisine of Malaysia) made of fermented small shrimps or krill. It is usually served as a condiment together with chillis, shallots and lime juice. It is similar to Bagoong Alamang (see shrimp paste) in the Philippines, Cencalok in Indonesia and khoei chalu (Thai: เคยฉลู) in Thailand.

Cincalok
Cincalok, shallots and chilli
TypeSnack, appetizer
Place of originMalaysia
Region or stateSoutheast Asia
Associated national cuisineSingapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Brunei, Philippines and Thailand
Main ingredientsCurry, chicken, potatoes

In Melaka, the shrimp is called udang geragau. The shrimp in the pinkish coloured cincalok are readily identifiable and the taste is salty. This shrimp is available in particular season in Pantai Klebang, Limbongan, Tanjung Kling and several coastal areas.

Cincalok manufacturing

The process of making cincalok requires several steps. Fresh small prawns (udang geragau) are added with salt and rice in equal proportions. After the ingredients are thoroughly mixed, it will be sealed in a jar and allowed to ferment for three days. There are also cincalok-makers who increase the proportion of rice in the mixture believing it to enhance the taste of the finished product.

As the finished product is fermented in a glass container, the fermentation process causes pressure to build up inside the container. Hence, care must be taken when opening the pressurized container containing ready-made cincalok.[1]

See also

References
  1. Clark, Melissa. "'From Malaysia, a Pungent Ferment' - The Chef: Zak Pelaccio, New York Times Dining & Wine". The New York Times. The New York Times.


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