When it comes to adding depth and umami flavor to your dishes, few ingredients are as versatile and potent as fish sauce. This salty, savory condiment has been a staple in Southeast Asian cuisine for centuries, and its uses go far beyond just dipping street food. From the bold flavors of Thai curries to the delicate nuances of Vietnamese salads, fish sauce is a secret ingredient that can elevate any dish to new heights.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouth-watering recipes that showcase the incredible range of fish sauce’s applications. Whether you’re looking for bold and spicy, sweet and caramelized, or tangy and refreshing flavors, these recipes are sure to inspire your next culinary adventure. So let’s dive in and discover the incredible world of fish sauce!
Vietnamese Fish Sauce Chicken Wings
Experience the bold flavors of Vietnam with these aromatic and savory chicken wings marinated in a mixture of fish sauce, lime juice, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds chicken wings
– 1/4 cup fish sauce
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together fish sauce, lime juice, garlic, ginger, sugar, and red pepper flakes (if using).
2. Add the chicken wings to the marinade and toss to coat evenly.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper.
5. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
6. Place the wings on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Thai Green Papaya Salad with Fish Sauce Dressing
Experience the bold flavors of Thailand with this refreshing salad featuring crunchy green papaya, tangy fish sauce dressing, and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium green papaya, peeled and grated
– 2 cups mixed greens (Thai basil, mint, cilantro)
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped peanuts or cashews
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce ( nam pla)
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon palm sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh chilies, sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine grated papaya, mixed greens, red bell pepper, and chopped nuts.
2. In a small bowl, mix together fish sauce, lime juice, palm sugar, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Garnish with sliced chilies, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Caramelized Pork Belly with Fish Sauce
A sweet and savory twist on traditional pork belly, this recipe combines the richness of caramelization with the umami flavor of fish sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork belly, skin removed
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp fish sauce
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp black pepper
– 1 tsp coriander powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, honey, and fish sauce.
3. Rub the mixture all over the pork belly, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the pork belly in a roasting pan and roast for 30 minutes.
5. Reduce oven temperature to 300°F (150°C) and continue to cook for an additional 2-3 hours, or until caramelized to desired level.
6. Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 2.5-3.5 hours
Spicy Fish Sauce Glazed Eggplant
Spicy Fish Sauce Glazed Eggplant Recipe
Discover the perfect blend of sweet and spicy with this Asian-inspired eggplant dish.
Ingredients:
• 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1-inch thick rounds
• 1/4 cup Spicy Fish Sauce (see note)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together Spicy Fish Sauce, soy sauce, honey, garlic, and salt.
3. Brush both sides of eggplant slices with the glaze mixture.
4. Heat oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear eggplant slices until browned (about 3 minutes per side).
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until eggplant is tender.
6. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Note: Spicy Fish Sauce can be found at most Asian grocery stores or online. If unavailable, substitute with a mixture of equal parts gochujang (Korean chili paste) and fish sauce.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Fish Sauce Marinated Grilled Shrimp
Elevate your shrimp game with this Asian-inspired recipe that combines the savory flavors of fish sauce, soy sauce, and brown sugar. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup fish sauce
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Vegetable oil for grilling
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together fish sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger.
2. Add the shrimp to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove shrimp from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they’re pink and cooked through.
5. Serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as rice or vegetables.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Vietnamese Dipping Sauce with Fish Sauce
This aromatic dipping sauce is a staple in Vietnamese cuisine, adding depth and umami flavor to your favorite dishes. This recipe combines the savory taste of fish sauce with the freshness of herbs and spices.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together fish sauce, soy sauce, lime juice, grated ginger, and garlic until well combined.
2. Stir in chopped cilantro and scallions.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Let the mixture sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This sauce is ready to use immediately.
Enjoy your delicious Vietnamese Dipping Sauce with Fish Sauce!
Fish Sauce Caramel Chicken
This sweet and savory dish combines the flavors of fish sauce, caramel, and chicken for a unique culinary experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp fish sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together fish sauce, brown sugar, water, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
3. Add chicken thighs to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Remove chicken from marinade and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Stir-Fried Morning Glory with Fish Sauce
This Southeast Asian-inspired stir-fry is a flavorful and nutritious way to start the day, featuring the sweet and crunchy morning glory vegetable paired with savory fish sauce.
Ingredients:
• 1 bunch morning glory (or Chinese broccoli), cleaned and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the morning glory and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender but still crisp.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together fish sauce and soy sauce.
5. Pour the fish sauce mixture over the morning glory and stir to combine.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Fish Sauce and Lime Dressing for Noodles
Elevate your noodle dishes with this tangy and savory dressing, perfect for pairing with Asian-inspired noodles or as a marinade for grilled fish.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce (Thai or Vietnamese)
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for some heat)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together fish sauce, lime juice, soy sauce, and rice vinegar until smooth.
2. Add the grated ginger and red pepper flakes (if using); whisk until well combined.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Cooking Time: None! This dressing is ready to use straight away.
Thai Larb with Fish Sauce
A classic Thai dish, Larb (also known as Laab) is a spicy and sour salad made with minced meat, herbs, and chilies. This version uses fish sauce for added umami flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 pound pork or beef, minced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup fish sauce
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1/4 cup chopped mint
– 1-2 Thai bird’s eye chilies, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic, ginger, and minced meat; cook until browned, breaking up with a spoon as needed.
3. Add fish sauce, lime juice, cilantro, mint, and chilies; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Fish Sauce Braised Short Ribs
A rich and savory Asian-inspired dish that falls-off-the-bone tender, with the bold flavors of fish sauce and aromatics.
Ingredients:
– 4 short ribs
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fish sauce
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon brown sugar
– 1 star anise pod
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear short ribs until browned, about 3 minutes per side.
3. Remove ribs, leaving the pot’s drippings. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add fish sauce, beef broth, soy sauce, sugar, star anise, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return short ribs to the pot, cover with a lid, and transfer to the preheated oven.
6. Braise for 2 1/2 hours or until meat is tender and falls apart easily.
Cooking Time: 2 1/2 hours
Garlic Butter Clams with Fish Sauce
Garlic Butter Clams with Fish Sauce Recipe
Summary: This recipe combines the rich flavors of garlic butter and fish sauce to create a decadent and savory dish featuring clams.
Ingredients:
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
• 1/2 cup fish sauce (Nam Pla or Anchovy Paste work well)
• 2 pounds freshly shucked clams
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. If using white wine, add it to the skillet and cook until reduced by half, stirring occasionally.
4. Stir in fish sauce; bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Add clams to the skillet, cover with a lid, and transfer to the preheated oven.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until clams are cooked through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Fish Sauce Pickled Vegetables
Elevate your Asian-inspired dishes with this tangy and savory condiment, featuring a perfect balance of sweet, sour, and umami flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as carrots, bell peppers, cucumber, and onions)
– 1/2 cup fish sauce
– 1/4 cup rice vinegar
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
Instructions:
1. Combine the mixed vegetables in a large bowl.
2. In a small saucepan, combine fish sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, and water. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
3. Remove from heat and stir in grated ginger and sesame oil.
4. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the vegetables, making sure they are fully submerged.
5. Let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
6. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (plus chilling time)
Grilled Fish with Fish Sauce and Herbs
A flavorful and aromatic recipe that elevates the taste of grilled fish to new heights.
Ingredients:
– 4 fish fillets (white fish or salmon work well)
– 1/2 cup fish sauce ( Nam Pla or Anchovy paste)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together fish sauce, olive oil, garlic, parsley, and dill.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the fish fillets.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place the fish on the preheated grill and cook for 4-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-12 minutes
Fish Sauce Fried Rice with Crispy Pork
This classic Chinese dish combines savory pork with flavorful fish sauce and a bed of fluffy fried rice.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup crispy pork strips (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 2 teaspoons fish sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger; cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the cooked rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
5. Push the rice mixture to one side of the skillet. Crack in 1 egg and scramble it until cooked through. Mix with the rice.
6. Add the crispy pork strips to the skillet; stir-fry until combined with the rice and egg.
7. Season with fish sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Fish Sauce and Chili Glazed Salmon
Elevate your salmon game with this sweet and spicy glaze, featuring a tangy fish sauce component.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup fish sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup chili flakes
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together fish sauce, honey, soy sauce, ginger, and chili flakes.
3. Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the glaze evenly over both sides of the salmon, making sure they’re fully coated.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through to your desired level of doneness.
6. Remove from oven and sprinkle brown sugar and rice vinegar over the top.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Vietnamese Fish Sauce Caramelized Fish
Experience the bold flavors of Vietnam with this simple and aromatic recipe that combines sweet, sour, and savory notes.
Ingredients:
– 4 fish fillets (any white fish works well)
– 1/2 cup fish sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together fish sauce, brown sugar, lime juice, and garlic.
3. Place the fish fillets in a shallow baking dish and brush the caramelized mixture evenly over both sides of the fish.
4. Drizzle with vegetable oil and season with salt to taste.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Fish Sauce and Lemongrass Beef Skewers
Elevate your barbecue game with these flavorful skewers, combining the umami of fish sauce with the brightness of lemongrass.
Ingredients:
– 500g beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
– 1/4 cup fish sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 20 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together fish sauce, garlic, soy sauce, brown sugar, and sesame oil.
3. Add beef strips and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
4. Remove beef from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Alternate beef and lemongrass stalks on skewers.
6. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until beef reaches desired level of doneness.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Summary
Discover the bold flavors of Southeast Asian cuisine with these 18 mouthwatering recipes that feature fish sauce as a key ingredient. From sweet and sticky caramelized pork belly to spicy Thai green papaya salad, these dishes showcase the versatility of fish sauce in cooking. Try using it to marinate grilled shrimp or add depth to a Vietnamese dipping sauce. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just looking for new inspiration, this collection of recipes is sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.
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