One of the key elements that make Thai dishes flavorful and aromatic is “fish sauce.” It is a seasoning that enhances both taste and aroma, making food even more delicious. Therefore, selecting the right type of fish sauce that matches the dish you’re preparing is important for achieving a perfect taste. There are simple techniques for choosing good fish sauce that even beginners can easily apply.
Read the Label Carefully
When selecting a bottle of fish sauce, it’s crucial to read the label as different recipes and brands contain various ingredients. A good fish sauce should primarily consist of fish and sea salt, with minimal additives. It should have a proper sodium level and be produced using natural methods, such as fermentation with fresh fish and minimal processing.
Smell It
To get a better sense of the scent, dip a spoon into the fish sauce and smell it. However, since you cannot open the bottle in the store to smell it directly, a good way to choose is by looking at the label. Look for reputable brands that clearly list the ingredients and fragrance, such as Squid Brand, known as “True Fish Sauce” or “น้ำปลาแท้ตราปลาหมึก.” Their products provide detailed information on ingredients, allowing you to confidently make a choice.
Check the Color
The color of the fish sauce is an indicator of its quality and the fermentation time. The amber-colored sediment in fish sauce is a result of the natural fermentation process between the fish and salt, which causes a chemical reaction between the proteins and sugars in the fish. The longer the fermentation, the darker the sauce becomes. High-quality fish sauce should have a clear amber color without being cloudy or having sediment.
Taste It
Good fish sauce should not be overly salty. It should have a subtle aroma from the fermentation process. Normally, you can’t taste the sauce before buying it, but you can check the label to see the percentage of anchovies ( krathak ) used, the fermentation method, and whether it is naturally fermented or artificially flavored.
Choose a Reputable Brand
Selecting the best fish sauce depends on personal preference, as each brand has its own formula and standards. Comparing multiple brands can help you find the one you like most. However, if you don’t have time to experiment with different brands, we recommend choosing a high-quality brand like Squid Brand (น้ำปลาแท้ตราปลาหมึก), which has been trusted in Thai kitchens for over 80 years. It is made from premium anchovies, naturally fermented, gluten-free, with no preservatives, MSG, artificial colors, or fragrances. It also offers options for controlling sodium, vegan formulas, and keto-friendly versions.