A Guide to Squid Brand Fish Sauce: What It Is & How to Use It
Squid Brand Fish Sauce is a pantry staple in many Southeast Asian kitchens, known for its bold flavor and versatility. Whether you're making Thai stir-fries or enhancing a dipping sauce, this fish sauce adds depth and umami like few ingredients can.
Let’s explore what makes it unique, how to use it, and how to store it properly.
1. 🐟 What Is Squid Brand Fish Sauce?
Squid Brand is a popular Thai fish sauce made from anchovies fermented with salt. The result is a clear, amber-colored liquid with a rich, savory flavor. Unlike lower-quality versions, Squid Brand offers a well-balanced profile—strong, but not overpowering.
It’s widely trusted in Thai cooking and beyond, favored for its clean umami hit that enhances both traditional dishes and modern recipes.
2. 🍜 How to Use It
Squid Brand Fish Sauce is incredibly versatile:
-
Add a splash to stir-fries for instant depth.
-
Enhance curries and soups with a subtle background richness.
-
Use in marinades, salad dressings, or Thai dipping sauces like nam jim or nuoc cham.
-
A few drops in rice or scrambled eggs can transform bland into flavorful.
Pro Tip: Start with small amounts—it's potent. You can always add more.
3. 🔥 Flavor Profile
The flavor of Squid Brand is:
-
Savory and deeply umami
-
Slightly salty with a hint of sweetness
-
A touch of fishiness that mellows when cooked
It doesn’t just add salt—it rounds out flavors, similar to how soy sauce functions in other cuisines.
4. 🧂 Storage Tips
Fish sauce has a long shelf life due to its salt content. After opening:
-
Store in a cool, dark place (like a cupboard—not the fridge).
-
It stays fresh for about 12 months, though the flavor may slowly mellow over time.
Keep the cap tightly closed to avoid oxidation or contamination.
Final Thoughts
Squid Brand Fish Sauce is more than just a seasoning—it's a flavor amplifier that brings depth to nearly any dish. Once you understand its role, you’ll find yourself reaching for it regularly, even outside traditional Thai cooking.
