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Fish Sauce

Also known as: Nuoc Mam, Nam Pla, Patis

🫙 Sauces & CondimentsVietnameseThaiFilipino

What is Fish Sauce?

Fish sauce is the liquid gold of Southeast Asian cooking—fermented anchovies and salt transformed into pure savory essence. It's funky, salty, and absolutely essential.

🍽️ Flavor Profile

Intensely salty, funky, savory, umami

How to Use Fish Sauce

  • ✓Nuoc cham dipping sauce
  • ✓Pad Thai
  • ✓Pho
  • ✓Marinades
  • ✓Stir-fries
  • ✓Green papaya salad

Substitutes for Fish Sauce

Can't find Fish Sauce? Here are some alternatives:

  • →Soy sauce + splash of Worcestershire
  • →Coconut aminos (much milder)

📦 Storage Tips

Keeps indefinitely at room temperature. May crystallize—that's normal and not harmful.

🛒 Buying Tips

First press (nhi or nuoc mam nhi) is highest quality. Red Boat is excellent. Avoid those with sugar or MSG.

Nutrition Highlights

  • ●Very high in sodium
  • ●Contains protein from fermented fish

💡 Fun Fact

The Romans had their own fish sauce called garum, which was equally beloved and expensive.

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