The flavour enhancer of Vietnamese cuisine

Fish sauce, also known as nước mắm, is an essential ingredient in almost every Vietnamese kitchen. The sauce is made by fermenting anchovies and sea salt for a long period, creating a rich umami flavour that gives dishes extra depth.

Vietnamese fish sauce is used not only during cooking, but also as a base for dipping sauces, marinades and dressings. This makes it an essential ingredient for anyone who wants to cook authentic Vietnamese food.

Authentic Vietnamese brands

At Tjin’s Toko you will find a carefully selected range of Vietnamese fish sauces from well-known brands, including:

• Red Boat
• Viet Huong
• Son
• Minh Ha
• Flying Lion

From premium first press fish sauce to traditional varieties for everyday use: there is always a fish sauce that suits your recipe.

For Phở, Bánh Mì and more

Vietnamese fish sauce is used in countless classic dishes, such as:

• Phở Bò
• Bún Chả
• Gỏi Cuốn
• Bánh Xèo
• Bánh Mì
• Cơm Tấm
• Spring rolls
• Marinades for meat and fish
• Nước Chấm (Vietnamese dipping sauce)

With just a few drops of fish sauce, you can instantly give broths, stir-fries and dressings an authentic Vietnamese flavour.

First Press Vietnamese Fish Sauce

Connoisseurs often choose first press fish sauce, such as Red Boat. This premium fish sauce is extracted during the first pressing of the fermentation process and is known for its pure flavour, deep umami and high quality. Ideal for dipping sauces, dressings and dishes where the fish sauce can truly shine.

Discover more

Want to learn more about Vietnamese cuisine? Visit our Vietnam inspiration page for recipes, cooking tips and background information. Also discover our Vietnamese Noodles, Vietnamese Herbs & Spices, Vietnamese Sauces and Vietnamese Drinks.

Frequently asked questions about Vietnamese fish sauce

What is Vietnamese fish sauce?

Vietnamese fish sauce, also known as nước mắm, is a traditional sauce made from fermented anchovies and sea salt. The sauce gives dishes a rich umami flavour and forms the base of many Vietnamese recipes.

What do you use Vietnamese fish sauce for?

Vietnamese fish sauce is used in broths, stir-fries, marinades, salads and as a base for the well-known Vietnamese dipping sauce Nước Chấm. It is also an important ingredient in dishes such as Phở, Bún Chả and Bánh Mì.

What is the difference between Vietnamese and Thai fish sauce?

Vietnamese fish sauce often has a slightly milder, more refined and complex flavour. Premium brands such as Red Boat are known for their pure first press quality without additives, while Thai fish sauce is often slightly saltier and stronger in flavour.

What does First Press fish sauce mean?

First Press means that the fish sauce comes from the first pressing of the fermentation process. This first extraction yields the highest quality, with a full, natural umami flavour and a clear colour.

Which Vietnamese fish sauce is the best known?

Red Boat is one of the best-known premium brands worldwide. In addition, Viet Huong, Son, Minh Ha and Flying Lion are popular brands that are widely used in Vietnamese households and restaurants.

How do you store Vietnamese fish sauce?

After opening, store fish sauce in a cool, dry place or in the refrigerator according to the advice on the packaging. Keep it tightly closed to preserve the flavour for longer.