Fish sauce is a staple condiment in many Asian cuisines, and for good reason. This savory umami-rich liquid adds depth and complexity to a wide range of dishes, from stir-fries and marinades to dipping sauces and braises. But fish sauce can be intimidating if you’re new to using it in your cooking. Don’t worry – with our collection of 20 recipes that showcase the versatility of fish sauce, you’ll be hooked (pun intended)!
In this article, we’ll explore a variety of dishes that incorporate fish sauce as a key ingredient. From classic Vietnamese and Thai dishes to creative twists on familiar favorites, these recipes will inspire you to get cooking with this incredible condiment. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen, you won’t want to miss these flavor-packed recipes.
Vietnamese Fish Sauce Chicken Wings
This recipe combines the bold flavors of Vietnam with the comfort of crispy chicken wings. Perfect for a quick and delicious snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds chicken wings
– 1/4 cup fish sauce
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 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, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger.
3. Add chicken wings to the marinade and toss to coat.
4. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray with cooking spray. Arrange the wings in a single layer.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through and crispy.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Thai Fish Sauce Marinated Grilled Pork
Elevate your grilling game with this flavorful and aromatic Thai-inspired marinade, perfect for a summer evening or any day that calls for a delicious pork dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork shoulder or butt, sliced into thin strips
– 1/4 cup Thai fish sauce
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together fish sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, lime juice, and sesame oil.
2. Add the sliced pork to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove pork from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Grill pork for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Fish Sauce Shrimp Stir-Fry
This quick and flavorful stir-fry is a perfect combination of spicy and savory, featuring succulent shrimp cooked with aromatic vegetables and a bold fish sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce (Spicy Asian-style)
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper; stir-fry until vegetables are tender-crisp.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink and just done.
4. Stir in fish sauce, soy sauce, and red pepper flakes; season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Fish Sauce Glazed Salmon
A sweet and savory glaze elevates the flavor of this pan-seared salmon fillet, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup fish sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together fish sauce, honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, and ginger until smooth.
3. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the glaze evenly over each fillet.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Caramelized Fish Sauce Tofu
Caramelized Fish Sauce Tofu: A Sweet and Savory Twist on Traditional Tofu Recipes
This recipe combines the richness of caramelized onions with the savory flavor of fish sauce to create a unique and mouthwatering tofu dish. Perfect for those looking for a vegetarian or vegan alternative to traditional fish-based sauces.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons of fish sauce (make sure it’s free from animal products)
– 1 tablespoon of brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon of soy sauce
– 1/4 cup of vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced onions and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally (about 20-25 minutes).
3. In a small bowl, whisk together fish sauce, brown sugar, and soy sauce.
4. Add the tofu cubes to the skillet with the caramelized onions and pour in the fish sauce mixture.
5. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the tofu is coated evenly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Fish Sauce Marinated Beef Skewers
Experience the bold flavors of Southeast Asia with this simple and savory recipe. Tender beef skewers are marinated in a mixture of fish sauce, soy sauce, garlic, and sugar, then grilled to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 500g beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 10 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together fish sauce, soy sauce, garlic, and brown sugar.
2. Add the beef strips to the marinade and mix until they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
4. Thread the marinated beef onto the bamboo skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Brush the vegetable oil on the grates before cooking the skewers.
6. Grill the skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Fish Sauce and Lime Dressing Salad
This refreshing salad combines the savory flavors of fish sauce with the brightness of lime, perfect for a light and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup sliced red onion
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tbsp fish sauce
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together fish sauce, lime juice, and honey until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Top with crumbled feta cheese.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Fish Sauce Braised Pork Belly
Transform pork belly into a rich and flavorful dish with this simple recipe, infused with the savory umami of fish sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork belly, skin removed
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, combine pork belly, fish sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, onion, and garlic.
3. Pour in chicken broth and water, making sure the pork is covered.
4. Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven.
5. Braise for 2-1/2 hours or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
6. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Fish Sauce and Herb Dipping Sauce
This versatile dipping sauce combines the umami flavor of fish sauce with fresh herbs, perfect for accompanying grilled meats, seafood, or vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup fish sauce
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together fish sauce and Greek yogurt until smooth.
2. Stir in chopped cilantro, scallions, and lime juice.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This sauce is ready to use straight away.
Use this dipping sauce to add a burst of flavor to your favorite dishes. Enjoy!
Fish Sauce Caramelized Ribs
Elevate your barbecue game with this unique twist on traditional ribs, featuring the umami flavor of fish sauce and a caramelized glaze. Perfect for adventurous palates!
Ingredients:
– 2 racks of pork ribs
– 1/4 cup fish sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together fish sauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, vegetable oil, garlic, and ginger.
3. Remove membrane from back of ribs and place in a large baking dish. Brush the fish sauce glaze all over the ribs, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 2 hours.
5. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, or until caramelized to your liking.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Fish Sauce Fried Rice with Shrimp
This classic Chinese dish combines the savory flavors of fish sauce, shrimp, and vegetables with the comfort of a warm bowl of fried rice.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1/2 cup diced onion
– 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
– 1/4 cup fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until they start to soften.
3. Push the vegetables to one side of the pan. Crack an egg into the empty space and scramble it.
4. Mix the egg with the vegetables.
5. Add the cooked shrimp and stir-fry until pink and cooked through.
6. Pour in the fish sauce and stir-fry for 1 minute.
7. Add the cooked rice to the wok, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir-fry until combined with the other ingredients.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Fish Sauce and Garlic Roasted Chicken
A flavorful and aromatic twist on traditional roasted chicken, this recipe combines the savory goodness of fish sauce with the pungency of garlic for a truly unforgettable dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp fish sauce
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and fish sauce.
4. Rub the garlic-fish sauce mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and roast for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Fish Sauce Pickled Vegetables
This recipe combines the bold flavors of fish sauce with the natural sweetness of pickled vegetables, creating a delicious and tangy condiment perfect for accompanying your favorite dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as carrots, cucumbers, bell peppers, and onions)
– 1/2 cup fish sauce
– 1/4 cup vinegar
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1 tablespoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Cut the mixed vegetables into bite-sized pieces.
2. In a large bowl, combine the fish sauce, vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add the vegetable pieces to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the marinade.
4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 24 hours or up to 48 hours.
5. After the pickling process is complete, strain the liquid from the vegetables and discard any excess liquid.
Cooking Time: 24-48 hours (depending on desired level of pickling)
Fish Sauce and Coconut Milk Curry
A flavorful and aromatic curry that combines the rich flavors of fish sauce with the creaminess of coconut milk.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb fish (any white fish works well), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 1 can coconut milk
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Add fish pieces; cook until opaque and flaky, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in fish sauce, curry powder, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour in coconut milk; bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low; let curry simmer for 10-15 minutes or until thickened slightly.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Fish Sauce Glazed Eggplant
Elevate your eggplant game with this savory and umami-rich glaze, featuring the bold flavors of fish sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup fish sauce
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together fish sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, and rice vinegar.
3. Brush the eggplant slices with vegetable oil and season with salt.
4. Place the eggplant on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper in a single layer.
5. Drizzle the fish sauce glaze over the eggplant, making sure they’re evenly coated.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the eggplant is tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Fish Sauce and Chili Grilled Squid
Elevate your seafood game with this bold and flavorful Fish Sauce and Chili Grilled Squid recipe, perfect for a quick and impressive meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cleaned squid tubes
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon chili flakes
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together fish sauce, chili flakes, garlic, soy sauce, and brown sugar.
3. Add the squid tubes to the marinade and toss to coat. Let it sit for 15-20 minutes.
4. Brush the squid with vegetable oil and place on the grill.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the squid is tender and slightly charred.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Fish Sauce and Ginger Steamed Fish
Elevate your fish game with this aromatic and savory dish, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 fish fillets (any white fish works well)
– 1/2 cup fish sauce
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and sliced thinly
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 green onions, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your steamer basket or a metal colander lined with parchment paper over boiling water.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together fish sauce, ginger, soy sauce, and garlic.
3. Place the fish fillets in the prepared steamer basket.
4. Pour the fish sauce mixture evenly over the fish.
5. Steam the fish for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Fish Sauce and Lemongrass Marinade
Elevate your seafood dishes with this aromatic marinade, perfect for grilled fish or prawns.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup fish sauce
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated lemongrass
– 1 teaspoon chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together fish sauce, lime juice, garlic, and lemongrass until well combined.
2. Add cilantro (if using) and stir to incorporate.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Cooking Time:
– No cooking required! This marinade is designed to be used raw, perfect for grilled fish or prawns.
Fish Sauce and Sesame Noodle Bowl
This dish combines the savory flavors of fish sauce with the nutty taste of sesame, all wrapped up in a delicious noodle bowl. Perfect for a quick and easy meal or as a base for other toppings.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup soba noodles
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook soba noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together fish sauce, sesame oil, onion, garlic, and scallions.
3. Add the noodle mixture to the cooked noodles and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time:
– 15 minutes
Fish Sauce and Pineapple Fried Rice
A flavorful and savory twist on traditional fried rice, this recipe combines the richness of fish sauce with the sweetness of pineapple.
Ingredients:
• 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
• 1 cup diced pineapple
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons fish sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 2 minutes.
3. Add the mixed vegetables, pineapple, fish sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
4. Push the vegetable mixture to one side of the pan.
5. Pour in a little more oil if needed, then add the cooked rice. Stir-fry until heated through and combined with the vegetable mixture.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Fish sauce lovers, rejoice! We’ve got 20 mouthwatering recipes that showcase the umami-rich condiment’s versatility. From savory dishes like Fish Sauce Braised Pork Belly and Fish Sauce Glazed Salmon to bold flavors like Spicy Fish Sauce Shrimp Stir-Fry and Fish Sauce and Chili Grilled Squid, these recipes will take your taste buds on a culinary adventure. With options for meat-lovers, seafood enthusiasts, and even plant-based eaters, there’s something for everyone in this flavorful collection.
Leave a Reply