ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Saeu-jeot

Saeu-jeot is a type of Korean fermented shrimp sauce.

Okay, so first let’s talk about shrimp. You know those little guys that like to hide in the ocean and jump around? Well, sometimes people like to catch them and eat them. But instead of just cooking them right away, some people like to take the shrimp and leave them out in the sun to dry for a little while. That makes them extra stinky, but it also makes them last longer.

After the shrimp are dried out, they are mixed with salt and put into a jar or container. Then, they are left in a warm place to ferment. Fermenting means that tiny bacteria start to grow and change the shrimp and salt mixture over time.

This whole process takes a long time, sometimes even months. But once the saeu-jeot is finished fermenting, it can be used to make all kinds of yummy Korean dishes. It might be a little smelly and strong, but some people love the flavor it adds to food.