Fried Pork with Fish Sauce is a deceptively simple dish with an incredible charm. The magic lies in the aroma of authentic fish sauce soaking into every fiber of the pork, creating a juicy interior and a perfectly crisp exterior. It’s a favorite for many, yet home cooks often struggle with tough meat or a saltiness that is too sharp. Today, we’re sharing a premium recipe that ensures a restaurant-quality result every time.
The true secret to elevating this dish is the ingredients. Since fish sauce defines the color and mellowness of the meat, choosing Squid Brand Fish Sauce—a premium choice trusted by chefs worldwide—guarantees a beautiful golden-brown hue and a fragrant, well-rounded taste without the harsh saltiness.

Premium Ingredients for the Perfect Dish
Bringing the taste of a famous restaurant’s kitchen into your home for Fried Pork with Fish Sauce isn’t just about technique. The key is selecting top-quality ingredients to achieve the most perfect texture and flavor. Simply choosing the right seasoning guarantees more than half the success. Let’s get your ingredients ready and start crafting this premium, special meal together!
- Pork (300-500g): We recommend pork loin or pork belly with a bit of fat. This ensures the meat stays juicy (“Juiciness”) and tender rather than becoming tough or dry.
- Squid Brand Gold Label (2-3 tbsp): The hero of the dish. This premium fish sauce provides a natural Umami flavor and a stunning golden color without needing extra seasonings.
- Crispy Frying Flour or Tapioca Starch (3-4 tbsp): This acts as a barrier to lock in moisture, providing that coveted “crispy outside, tender inside” texture.
- Ground White Pepper: Adds a layer of mild heat and aroma that cuts through the richness and highlights the fish sauce.
- Palm Oil (for frying): Choose an oil with a high smoke point to ensure the pork is evenly cooked, golden, and not greasy.

Step-by-Step: Making perfectly aromatic Fried Pork with Fish Sauce.
1. Preparation
Choose cuts with some fat marbling, like pork collar or belly. Slice the meat into consistent thicknesses of 0.5 – 1 cm. This ensures even cooking. Wash the meat and pat it completely dry so the seasoning adheres better.
2. The Marinating Secret
Toss the sliced pork with Squid Brand Gold Label. Add a dash of white pepper and a pinch of sugar. Massage the mixture into the meat. Because this is a 100% natural, Gluten-Free fish sauce with no MSG or preservatives, you get a clean, deep Umami taste. For best results, marinate in the fridge for 30 to 60 minutes.
3. Coating with Flour
Lightly dust the marinated pork with frying flour. The goal is a thin coating, not a thick batter. This thin layer protects the meat from losing its juices during frying, keeping it moist inside.
4. Frying Technique
Heat the oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Drop the pork in carefully. Do not stir for the first 1-2 minutes to allow the flour to set and turn golden. Once the pork floats and looks evenly golden, turn the heat to high for the final 30 seconds to “push out” excess oil. Drain on a wire rack.

The Secret to Deliciousness: Why is Squid Brand Fish Sauce a must for Fried Pork with Fish Sauce?
Authentic fish sauce isn’t just about salt; it’s about aroma and color.
- Unique Aroma: Fermented naturally for 18 months from fresh anchovies, it releases a complex, appetizing scent the moment it hits the hot pan—reminiscent of high-end Thai restaurants.

- Natural Golden Color: It gives the pork an appetizing golden-brown glow without the need for artificial food coloring.
- Mellow Taste: Unlike cheap brands that are “sharply salty,” this premium sauce offers a balanced saltiness derived from sea salt and natural amino acids.
FAQ
Q : How do I prevent oil splatters?
- A : Ensure the pork is patted dry before marinating. The light coating of flour also helps absorb moisture, which is the main cause of splattering.
Q : Can I use other pork cuts?
- A : Yes! Pork collar (neck) is an excellent alternative to pork belly as it has great fat marbling and stays tender.
Q : Why is my fried pork too salty?
- A : This usually happens with low-quality fish sauces that lack depth. Using a premium naturally fermented sauce allows the flavor to penetrate the meat evenly without the saltiness becoming overpowering.
Q : Why does my fried pork with fish sauce turn out overly salty at home?
- A : Don’t over-fry. Use medium-high heat rather than low heat. Frying too long on low heat dries out the moisture, making the meat leathery.
