Fish Sauce

Engraulidae Condiment / Sauce

Fish Sauce Condiment / Sauce

At a Glance

  • Category Condiment / Sauce

The Forktionary Angle

"The ultimate umami enhancer, lending an indispensable savory depth that elevates dishes without imparting an overtly "fishy" taste."

Definition

A potent, salty, and umami-rich condiment made from fermented fish, fundamental to Southeast Asian cuisine for adding depth and savory complexity.

Fermentation Time Typically 6-18 months
Optimal Storage Store in a cool, dark pantry; lasts indefinitely
Umami Content High in glutamates, responsible for umami

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Fish Sauce are:

Salty Umami Savory Funky (mild)

Chef’s Secret

Don't let the strong smell fool you; fish sauce mellows considerably when cooked, transforming into a rich, savory backbone for dishes. A dash can also boost the flavor of non-Asian stews.

Best Substitutes

Soy Sauce

less umami
Ratio 1:1

Mushroom Powder + Salt

to taste

Worcestershire Sauce

similar savory notes
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Look for brands with high protein content and minimal ingredients (fish, salt, water). First-press sauces are usually higher quality.

Recipes Using Fish Sauce

Stove Top Main Ingredient Preparation Thai

A La Truck Shrimp

Experience the vibrant flavors of authentic Vietnamese street food with this easy A La Truck Shrimp recipe! Sweet, spicy, and savory, this dish is ready in just 20 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a fun weekend gathering.

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Weeknight Poultry Meat Low In Something

A Simple Chicken Satay

Experience the vibrant flavors of Thai cuisine with this easy, no-skewer chicken satay recipe! Inspired by a 1980s cookbook, this dish delivers authentic taste without the fuss. Tender chicken breasts marinate overnight in a luscious blend of aromatic spices, then bake to juicy perfection. Perfect for a weeknight meal or a casual get-together.

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Dinner Party Low Carb Time To Make 30 Minutes Or Less

Asian Caramelized Chicken

This irresistible Asian Caramelized Chicken recipe is a family favorite that's impressive enough for guests! Tender, juicy boneless, skinless chicken thighs are coated in a luscious, sticky glaze, then finished with crunchy peanuts and fresh cilantro for an unforgettable flavor explosion. Ready in under 30 minutes!

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Main Dish Time To Make Beef Preparation

Asian Meatballs With Rice Noodles

These flavorful Asian meatballs, bursting with fresh herbs and a touch of spice, are tossed with delicious rice noodles for a quick and satisfying weeknight meal. Perfect for a family dinner or a tasty lunch, this recipe delivers an explosion of authentic Asian flavors. Inspired by a successful contest entry, this recipe is easy to follow, even for beginner cooks. Easily adjustable spice level – reduce the chili for a milder dish. Discover the secret ingredient: sesame oil for extra noodle deliciousness! This recipe is sure to become a new family favorite.

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Course Cuisine Broccoli Pork

Asian Noodles My Sister's Recipe

Craving a quick and delicious Asian noodle dish? My sister left behind her amazing noodle recipe, and it's a keeper! This easy-to-follow recipe uses pantry staples and fresh ingredients for a flavorful meal ready in under 30 minutes. We've adapted the measurements for everyone, and half the sauce is included so you'll have leftovers for another delicious meal! Get ready to be amazed by this simple yet incredibly satisfying recipe.

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Stove Top Easy Lactose Asian

Asian Pork Patties

Spice up your dinner party with Rodney Dunn's sensational Asian Pork Patties, originally featured in the March 2001 issue of Australian Good Taste magazine! These flavorful patties are perfect as a delicious appetizer or light meal. Customize the heat – add chilies for a fiery kick or omit them for a milder dish. Get ready to impress your guests with this easy-to-follow recipe.

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Easy Dietary Picnic Time To Make

Asian Slaw With Spicy Thai Vinaigrette

Craving a flavor explosion? This Asian slaw, inspired by Joe's Farm Grill in Gilbert, Arizona (featured on Guy Fieri's Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives!), is bursting with vibrant flavors and a spicy kick. This isn't your average slaw – it's a culinary adventure! We've adapted Guy Fieri's recipe to bring you the most amazing, restaurant-quality slaw you can make at home. Get ready for perfectly balanced sweet, sour, and spicy notes in every crunchy bite! Perfect as a side dish for burgers, grilled meats, or even as a light meal on its own.

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Equipment Dietary Main Ingredient Preparation

Baby Bok Choy With Mushrooms And Tofu

This vibrant and flavorful Asian-inspired dish features crispy pan-fried tofu, tender baby bok choy, and savory mushrooms in a luscious homemade sauce. Inspired by traditional Chinese cooking, this recipe from Country Living Magazine is a quick weeknight meal perfect served over rice or ramen noodles. We've enhanced it with tips from countless reviews for the perfect balance of savory and umami.

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Pasta Rice And Grains Course Spicy Finger Food

Baked Chicken Spring Rolls

Craving delicious spring rolls without the guilt? This recipe delivers crispy, flavorful baked chicken spring rolls that are surprisingly light and healthy. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner for three, or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer at your next gathering. Skip the deep fryer and save on calories and fat – you won't miss the oil one bit!

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60 Minutes Or Less Spicy Main Dish Thai

Bangkok Style Chicken Pad Thai

Relive the vibrant flavors of 1960s Bangkok with this authentic Pad Thai recipe, straight from my grandmother's treasured recipe box! This dish, inspired by the Thai Room of the legendary Plaza Hotel, boasts tender chicken, perfectly balanced savory-sweet sauce, and a delightful crunch. Get ready for a culinary journey back in time!

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3 Steps Or Less Preparation Sandwiches 3 Steps Or Less

Banh Mi Vietnamese Submarine Sandwich

Authentic Vietnamese street food, elevated for your kitchen! This Banh Mi recipe delivers the perfect balance of savory marinated pork, crunchy pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs, all nestled in a crispy baguette. Easy to follow instructions and mouthwatering results guaranteed.

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Barbecue Course Main Ingredient Main Dish

Barbecue Ginger Prawns Shrimp

Ignite your taste buds with these succulent BBQ Ginger Garlic Chilli Prawns! This vibrant recipe, inspired by the Australian Barbecue Kettle Cookbook, features juicy prawns marinated in a fiery ginger, garlic, and chilli blend. Perfect for a summer barbecue, these prawns cook quickly to tender perfection. Get ready for a flavour explosion!

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Occasion Meat Preparation Occasion

Barbecued Vietnamese 5 Spice Cornish Game Hens

This award-winning recipe, originally published in the San Francisco Chronicle in 1990 by Joyce Jue, delivers succulent, flavorful Cornish game hens with a beautiful char. The Vietnamese 5-spice blend creates a complex aroma, perfectly complemented by the tangy nuoc cham dipping sauce. Impress your guests with this elegant yet surprisingly easy BBQ recipe!

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Low Carb Main Ingredient Cuisine Asian

Beanshoot Avocado Baby Spinach Salad

A vibrant and flavorful salad bursting with fresh beansprouts, creamy avocado, and tender baby spinach. This recipe, inspired by Australian chef Iain Hewitson's popular TV show, features a zesty Asian vinaigrette that's perfect as a light lunch or refreshing entrée. Get ready to impress with this quick and easy recipe!

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Main Dish Main Ingredient Preparation Beef

Beef Lok Lak Cambodian Recipe

Experience the explosive flavors of authentic Cambodian Beef Lok Lak! This sizzling stir-fry, similar to Vietnamese shaking beef (but with a uniquely Cambodian twist!), features tender beef slices marinated in a savory blend of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and fragrant spices. Enjoy it the traditional way – wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves with fresh cucumber, tomato, and onion, and dipped in the irresistible, homemade dipping sauce. This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner. Serve with fluffy rice or crispy fries, and don't forget the fried egg for an extra touch of decadence! Learn the secret to perfectly cooked, flavorful Beef Lok Lak and impress your family and friends with this unforgettable Cambodian dish.

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Cuisine Occasion Beef Vietnamese

Beef Pho

Experience the rich, savory depths of authentic Vietnamese Beef Pho! This classic recipe, perfect for beef lovers, delivers a heartwarming and flavorful soup that's worth the time. While the elaborate, slow-simmered broth takes dedication (and is best made a day ahead), the result is a deeply rewarding culinary journey. Fresh herbs and perfectly seared beef elevate this dish to an unforgettable experience. Prepare to be amazed!

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Cuisine Summer Appetizers Seasonal

Prawn And Black Rice Salad With Vietnamese Dressing

A stunning summer salad inspired by Nigella Lawson! This vibrant dish features succulent prawns and nutty black rice, tossed in a tangy Vietnamese dressing. Perfect for a light lunch, festive gathering, or even a Christmas Day feast (as enjoyed in Australia!). The beautiful colors and fresh flavors make it an unforgettable culinary experience. Prepare to be amazed!

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Cuisine Pasta Rice And Grains Weeknight Pasta

Thai Noodles Phad Thai

Authentic Thai Phad Thai recipe! This incredibly flavorful dish features perfectly cooked rice noodles, succulent shrimp, and a vibrant mix of fresh vegetables. Learn to make restaurant-quality Phad Thai at home with our easy-to-follow instructions. Get ready for a taste of Thailand!

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