Fish Sauce

Servings: 4 servings Difficulty: Intermediate
A savory, umami-rich condiment essential for Southeast Asian cuisine
Fish Sauce recipe image

This homemade fish sauce captures the deep, savory essence of traditional Southeast Asian cooking. By simmering fresh fish with a blend of aromatic spices, garlic, and lime, you create a complex liquid gold that elevates stir-fries, dipping sauces, and marinades. The balance of salty, sweet, and spicy notes makes it a versatile pantry staple. While store-bought versions are convenient, this fresh version offers a brighter, more nuanced flavor profile perfect for summer grilling or weeknight dinners. It’s an excellent way to add authentic depth to your home cooking without relying on processed additives.

Fish Sauce

Difficulty: Intermediate
Servings: 4 servings Calories: 40.9

Description

This homemade fish sauce captures the deep, savory essence of traditional Southeast Asian cooking. By simmering fresh fish with a blend of aromatic spices, garlic, and lime, you create a complex liquid gold that elevates stir-fries, dipping sauces, and marinades. The balance of salty, sweet, and spicy notes makes it a versatile pantry staple. While store-bought versions are convenient, this fresh version offers a brighter, more nuanced flavor profile perfect for summer grilling or weeknight dinners. It&# 226;ÂÂs an excellent way to add authentic depth to your home cooking without relying on processed additives.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. Clean and rinse the fish thoroughly, then chop into small pieces to increase surface area for flavor extraction.
  2. In a large pot, combine the chopped fish with water, sliced garlic, chilies, and any available aromatics like lemongrass or ginger.
  3. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then immediately reduce the heat to low to maintain a gentle simmer.
  4. Simmer the fish for 30 to 45 minutes, skimming off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface.
  5. Strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl, pressing gently on the solids to extract maximum flavor.
  6. Discard the solids and allow the sauce to cool completely before transferring to sterilized bottles for storage.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4 servings


Amount Per Serving
Calories 40.9kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 0.2g1%
Saturated Fat 0.0g0%
Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
Sodium 4.5mg1%
Total Carbohydrate 9.4g4%
Dietary Fiber 0.9g4%
Sugars 0.6g
Protein 1.7g4%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Keywords: fish sauce, umami, thai, condiment, garlic, chili, lime, homemade, marinade, dipping sauce, seafood, asian, salmon, anchovy, fermented, savory, pantry staple, fresh herbs, cooking liquid, flavor enhancer
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