Many people have wondered why switching brands of fish sauce changes the taste of their dishes, even when using the same amount. Some brands are intensely salty, others slightly sweet, while certain formulas have such a strong aroma they overpower the main ingredients on the plate. The question is: why does fish sauce, which seems to have only fish and salt as its ingredients, vary so much in taste?
In reality, there are many factors that make “different brands of fish sauce taste different.” Everything from the type of raw materials, fermentation methods, fermentation period, to added ingredients, all significantly influence the taste, aroma, and quality of fish sauce. In this article, we’ll clear up these questions and compare various brands of authentic fish sauce to find out which one is the most delicious and best suited to your kitchen.
Factors That Affect the Taste of Fish Sauce
Although fish sauce may seem like a simple condiment, behind that small bottle lies a world of differences. It’s not just the taste, but also the aroma, color, and umami that directly affect your food. The secret to these differences lies in the production process and the raw materials each brand chooses. Let’s take a closer look at the key factors that give each fish sauce its distinctive character:
1. Type of Fish
The most commonly used fish in fish sauce production is anchovy, thanks to its small size, low fat content, and distinct aroma after fermentation. This results in a rich, mellow fish sauce without a fishy odor. Some brands, however, may use mackerel scad or other cheaper fish, which can lead to a harsher taste and stronger, less consistent fish smell.
2. Fish-to-Salt Ratio
High-quality fish sauce typically uses an appropriate fish-to-salt ratio, such as 3:1 or 2:1, ensuring enough fish to produce a naturally rich flavor. If there’s too little fish and the sauce is diluted with excessive water or salt, the result will be a sharply salty taste lacking the natural depth from the fish.
3. Fermentation Time
Fermentation time is another crucial factor in making authentic fish sauce. If it’s fermented for less than 6 months, the taste and aroma usually aren’t well-developed, and there may be a noticeable fishy smell. Meanwhile, naturally fermented fish sauce for over 18 months, such as that of Squid Brand, develops a fragrant natural aroma, clear golden color, and a mellow, non-harsh saltiness. Longer fermentation allows the fish enzymes to fully break down, creating a smoother, more natural taste compared to chemically adjusted sauces.
4. Additives: Sugar, MSG, Preservatives, and Flavor Enhancers
Some brands add sugar for a softer sweetness, MSG for instant umami, or preservatives to extend shelf life. However, these additives can compromise the quality of natural fish sauce and may not be suitable for those watching their sodium intake or avoiding additives. If your kitchen desires a truly “delicious” taste from 100% authentic fish sauce—free from sugar and MSG—then Squid Brand’s authentic fish sauce is your answer. Made from pure anchovies with no added flavorings, it enhances your food’s flavor without relying on artificial sweetness or preservatives, making it a favorite for health-conscious consumers.
Recommended: 3 Popular Squid Brand Fish Sauce Recipes That Elevate Every Dish
If your kitchen is looking for truly “delicious” flavor from 100% natural anchovy fish sauce that can be used in all your favorite dishes, we recommend these three popular Squid Brand fish sauce varieties, each tailored for taste and health:
1. Squid Brand Green Label Authentic Fish Sauce – Original Recipe
The traditional recipe that has been a staple in Thai kitchens for generations. It offers a robust, aromatic fish sauce flavor perfect for Thai cooking—whether for salads, pickling, frying, boiling, or marinating—bringing out bold, balanced flavors in your favorite dishes.
2. Squid Brand Yellow Label Authentic Fish Sauce – Mellow Recipe
A classic recipe well-known in Thai households, made from anchovies fermented with sea salt. This fish sauce delivers a “mellow taste,” chosen by many kitchens for its balanced, non-harsh saltiness. Ideal for seasoning, drizzling, or making dipping sauces, it enhances dishes without overwhelming them.
3. Squid Brand Gold Label Authentic Fish Sauce (Squid Gold) – Premium Grade
This premium formula, with no added sugar, is keto-friendly. Made from fresh, high-quality anchovies naturally fermented to achieve a mellow, fragrant saltiness and pronounced umami without being overly salty. Perfect for both cooking and premium dipping sauces like seafood sauce, spicy salads, or chili fish sauce dips, it elevates flavors to the next level.