How To Use Thai Fish Sauce In Unexpected Dishes

Thai fish sauce is one of those common pantry staples that is usually reserved for Thai or Asian cooking. But it has so much more to offer than depth in a pad thai or green curry. This little bottle of umami magic can elevate everyday meals to new levels in ways you never imagined, adding richness and complexity that your regular salt, pepper, or sauces just can't match.

If you have never tried using fish sauce other than in Thai cooking - now is the perfect time to start. From marinades to cocktails (yes, actually), here are some of the most innovative and unexpected uses for Thai fish sauce in your cooking.

Marinades That Pack A Punch

Fish sauce is an excellent addition to marinades - it adds a powerful depth to meats, vegetables, and seafood. Surprisingly, Thai fish sauce is an excellent addition to BBQ marinades, too - just a dash of its umami-rich flavour can easily bring out the natural taste of your chosen protein or veggies.

For instance, if you want a lip-smacking Thai fish dish, marinate fish fillets with Thai fish sauce, lime juice, and garlic before grilling. The very slightly salty and subtle sweetness mixture allows the inherent flavour of the seafood to shine without overpowering it. The end result? A beautifully caramelised crust and an unctuous, flavour-filled interior.

Pro tip: Blend Thai fish sauce with honey, crushed garlic, and a dash of fresh lime for a very well-rounded glaze. This will be delicious on chicken wings, steak, and even grilled tofu.

Soups and Stews With Extra Depth

When making a classic Western stew or soup, such as beef stew or chicken noodle soup, consider substituting some of the salt with a teaspoon of fish sauce. It may seem odd, but the fish sauce adds a richness of savoury flavour that takes the broth to a whole new level.

Even your regular, classic vegetable soup can be elevated with a splash of Thai fish sauce - it rounds out the flavors and makes everything more robust. Just don't overdo it; as with most things, less is more.

Pro tip: The next time you make tomato soup, add a teaspoon of fish sauce for a beautiful, deep, and fuller taste.

A Secret Ingredient For Salad Dressings

Tired of the same old vinaigrette? Fish sauce can add a wonderful surprise to salad dressings, giving them a richer, more umami taste. It combines nicely with olive oil, lemon juice, and honey, creating a tangy dressing that is especially great with roasted vegetables, Asian slaws, and grilled meats.

Here’s a quick recipe you can try: Whisk 1 tablespoon of fish sauce, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon of honey. Drizzle it over a roasted pumpkin and feta salad or a fresh herb-packed slaw for a surprise splash of flavor.

Yes, Fish Sauce in Cocktails!

If you think fish sauce doesn’t have a place in cocktails, think again. Bartenders have been experimenting with umami flavours for years, and fish sauce is making its way into some seriously innovative cocktails.

You can add a savoury boost to a classic Bloody Mary by substituting fish sauce for Worcestershire sauce. The saltiness elevates the tomato juice and complements the vodka, making this classic cocktail even more delicious.

Want to get even more creative? Mix fish sauce with salt and use it to rim the glass for a savory, umami twist on a margarita. It sounds weird, but trust us, once you've had it, you'll never go back to plain salt again!

Snacks and Sides With A Twist

The best part about fish sauce is its versatility. Thai fish sauce can be used not only for main dishes but also to elevate snacks. Drizzle a little bit over roasted nuts or popcorn alongside melted butter, and you will have an umami-rich snack that’s hard to resist.

Another great idea is to use fish sauce as a seasoning for roast potatoes. Ditch the salt and pepper and toss your potatoes in a combination of olive oil, fish sauce, and garlic before roasting. The end result? A rich, seriously savoury, and slightly crispy side dish that goes hand-in-hand with any meal.

Try this: Toss roasted cashews in a mixture of fish sauce, a touch of sugar, and a sprinkle of chilli flakes. Roast them for a few more minutes, and you’ve got an addictive snack with the perfect balance of salty, sweet, and spicy.

Make Exotic Food Thailand's Fish Sauce Your Pantry Staple

Not all fish sauces are made equally or are of great quality. However, if you want the best for you, Exotic Food Thailand’s fish sauce is the right choice! Made with all-natural ingredients, it’s a high-quality option that delivers pure umami goodness.

Aside from our Thai fish sauce, we also boast an expansive collection of ready-to-go marinades, natural dipping sauces, and other essential condiments. You could be cooking a traditional Thai recipe or experimenting with new cuisines, our collection is here to make your kitchen endeavours easy and delicious.

Stock up on Exotic Food Thailand's selection of marinades and dipping sauces today, and add some umami oomph to your meals! Get ready to get creative in the kitchen!