Why Do Different Brands of Fish Sauce Have Different Tastes?
Fish sauce is an essential seasoning in Thai and Southeast Asian cuisine, known for its aromatic, well-balanced saltiness that enhances the depth of various dishes. Although the basic ingredients of fish sauce—fermented fish and salt—are similar across brands, the flavors of different fish sauce brands on the market can vary significantly. Some brands have a strong salty taste, while others offer a smoother, more umami-rich flavor with a distinct fish aroma.
What causes these differences? Today, Squid Brand will explore the key factors behind the unique taste of each fish sauce brand.
Factors Affecting the Taste of Fish Sauce
| Factor | Details |
| 1. Ingredients and Type of Fish | – Short-bodied mackerel (Pla Sai Ton): Intense flavor with a distinctive aroma- Anchovy (Pla Katak): Smooth, mild umami taste- Other marine fish: Flavor varies depending on species |
| 2. Fermentation Process and Duration | – Short fermentation (3–6 months): Strong salty taste, pronounced fishiness- Long fermentation (1+ years): Milder, more aromatic flavor- Natural fermentation: More complex taste- Accelerated fermentation: May involve additives, altering the taste |
| 3. Salt Ratio and Salinity Control | – More salt: Stronger saltiness- Less salt: Smoother taste- Sea salt: Intensifies the flavor- Rock salt: Offers a softer saltiness |
| 4. Filtration Method and Storage | – Coarse filtration: Retains strong flavors and fish aroma- Fine filtration: Produces clearer fish sauce with a lighter taste- Packaging: Glass bottles preserve flavor longer than plastic bottles, but taste may change over time |
| 5. Secret Recipes and Brand-Specific Adjustments | – Added sugar or MSG: Enhances smoothness and umami- Aroma adjustment: Reduces sharp fishy smells for broader appeal |
Which Squid Brand Fish Sauce is Best for Your Dish?
Squid Brand offers a variety of fish sauce formulas, each crafted to complement specific dishes. Whether for stir-frying, marinating, dipping, or seasoning, there is a perfect fish sauce for every meal.
1. Original Formula (Green Label)
Made from high-quality Short-bodied mackerel, naturally fermented
Strong, bold flavor
Ideal for dishes requiring an intense taste, such as spicy salads, seafood dipping sauces, fermented dishes, and Tom Yum soup
2. สูตรกลมกล่อม ฉลากเหลือง
Made from Short-bodied mackerel, aged for 18 months
Balanced salinity with natural sweetness from stevia extract, making it keto-friendly
Perfect for dipping sauces, mild stir-fries, and seasoning without overpowering the dish
3. Premium Gold Formula
High-quality anchovy-based premium fish sauce
No added sugar, keto-friendly
Best for grilled fish with fish sauce glaze, crispy pork belly in fish sauce, and gourmet dishes needing a refined umami taste
4. Himalayan Salt Formula
Premium-grade fish sauce blended with Himalayan salt, containing over 84 minerals
Milder taste, ideal for health-conscious consumers and keto diets
Versatile for various dishes, from Thai to international cuisine
5. Mala Chili Fish Sauce
A fusion of Thai and Chinese flavors, combining authentic fish sauce with the unique numbing heat of Mala chilies
Carefully selected ingredients for an aromatic, spicy, and umami-rich taste
Perfect for hot pot, barbecue, stir-fried dishes, or as a dipping sauce
The taste of fish sauce varies among brands due to differences in ingredients, fermentation techniques, salt ratios, filtration processes, and unique brand recipes. When choosing a Squid Brand fish sauce, consider the dish you are preparing and the flavor profile you desire to enhance the overall taste of your meals.