Best Fish Sauces of 2026

Ashley Abels Avatar
Ashley Abels
Last Updated: Jan 28, 2026

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Fish sauces are a staple ingredient in many Southeast Asian cuisines, including Thai, Vietnamese, and Filipino. Made from fermented fish and salt, these sauces add a savory, umami flavor to dishes. Some popular brands include Red Boat, Three Crabs, and Squid. Fish sauce can be used as a marinade or added to stir-fries, soups, and curries. It's also a key ingredient in the iconic Thai dish, Pad Thai. While the strong aroma may be off-putting to some, fish sauce adds a depth of flavor that can't be replicated by any other ingredient.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Red Boat Fish Sauce Cover #TOP 1
Red Boat Fish Sauce
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Thai Kitchen Premium Fish Sauce, 23.66 fl oz Cover #TOP 2
Thai Kitchen Premium Fish Sauce, 23.66 fl oz
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Red Boat Fish Sauce, Phamily Reserve Cover #TOP 3
Red Boat Fish Sauce, Phamily Reserve
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Fish Sauces

#TOP 1

Red Boat Fish Sauce

9681
Red Boat Fish Sauce Cover
Red Boat Fish Sauce | Premium 40°N Fish Sauce made with just 2 ingredients in Vietnam | Keto, Paleo & Whole 30 | Gluten and Sugar free | 17 fl oz

Red Boat Fish Sauce is made of two ingredients - sea salt and black anchovies, caught off Vietnam's Phú Quốc archipelago. It is first press and high in protein content. The anchovies and sea salt are fermented together for a year using a traditional method. This fish sauce is perfect for adding umami flavor in various dishes without any preservatives or additives.

What We Like
High-quality, pure ingredients
Rich umami flavor
No additives or preservatives
Versatile in many cuisines
Long shelf life
What We Don't Like
Higher price than other brands
Strong aroma for some users
#TOP 2

Thai Kitchen Premium Fish Sauce, 23.66 fl oz

Thai Kitchen Premium Fish Sauce, 23.66 fl oz Cover
Thai Kitchen Premium Fish Sauce, 23.66 fl oz - One 23.66 Fluid Ounce Bottle of Fish Sauce Crafted for Dressings and Marinades for a Sweet, Tangy and Spicy Flavor

Thai Kitchen Premium Fish Sauce features fresh-pressed salted anchovies, perfect for dressings and marinades. This gluten-free and dairy-free product offers an intense flavor that adds complexity to your favorite recipes. It comes in a 23.66-fluid-ounce bottle, making it ideal for high-volume establishments.

What We Like
Authentic flavor
Great value
Versatile usage
Rich umami taste
Good price in bulk
What We Don't Like
Slightly salty
#TOP 3

Red Boat Fish Sauce, Phamily Reserve

8.45 fl oz
Red Boat Fish Sauce, Phamily Reserve Cover
Red Boat Fish Sauce, Phamily Reserve | Premium 50°N fish sauce sustainably made with just two ingredients in Vietnam | Higher Protein For Exceptional Flavor | Gluten and sugar free, no preservatives | 8.45 fl oz.

Red Boat Phamily Reserve is a premium fish sauce with exceptional flavor due to its high protein content. Made in Vietnam with sea salt and black anchovies, this sauce offers pure umami taste. The slow fermentation process in wooden barrels enhances its character. Family-owned, it reflects traditional Vietnamese craftsmanship. Effortlessly add umami to your dishes like sauces, marinades, and soups. Paleo, Whole 30, and Keto friendly, it contains no preservatives, sugar, or gluten, catering to various dietary preferences.

What We Like
Rich umami flavor
Premium quality ingredients
Complex and smooth taste
No additives or preservatives
Less intense smell
What We Don't Like
Strong aroma
Higher price point

Thai Kitchen Gluten Free Premium Fish Sauce

07376280010
Thai Kitchen Gluten Free Premium Fish Sauce Cover
Thai Kitchen Gluten Free Premium Fish Sauce, 6.76 fl oz

Thai Kitchen Fish Sauce is a premium fish sauce made from salted anchovies and sea salt. It is gluten-free and can be used as a seasoning or a substitute for soy sauce or salt to add a savory taste to any dish. Its careful crafting ensures a high-quality taste that blends perfectly with the sweet and spicy flavors of authentic Thai dishes. This sauce is a must-have for any home cook who wants to add an authentic Thai taste to their dishes.

What We Like
Precise spout design
Enhances Asian dishes
Widely available
Affordable price
What We Don't Like
Milder flavor profile
Extra ingredients added
#TOP 5

Soeos Vegan Fish Sauce, 16.9 fl oz

Soeos Vegan Fish Sauce, 16.9 fl oz Cover
Soeos Fish Sauce, 16.9 fl oz (500ml), Savory Flavor, Premium Fish Sauce for Cooking, Crafted for Dressings and Marinades, Naturally Fermented for Rich Umami Flavor

Soeos Vegan Fish Sauce offers a rich, savory taste that enhances your cooking. This Thai-inspired condiment, known as "Nam Pla," is made from naturally fermented anchovies and salt, delivering a unique umami flavor. You can easily substitute it for traditional sauces like soy sauce or chicken essence, making meals healthier with zero fat. With its versatility, it’s perfect for a variety of cooking methods, including stir-frying, marinating, and braising. Enjoy the authentic Thai flavor in your dishes while maintaining a clean and pure ingredient list.

What We Like
Rich umami flavor
Lower sodium content
Clean ingredients
Attractive packaging
Versatile in recipes
What We Don't Like
Price slightly higher
Sodium still noticeable
#TOP 6

Lucky Brand Thai Fish Sauce

KONGZEE
Lucky Brand Thai Fish Sauce Cover
Lucky Brand Thai Fish Sauce (1)

Lucky Brand Thai Fish Sauce is a 23 Fl. oz. bottle of fish sauce that contains no MSG. The sauce is made of anchovy extract, salt, sugar, and water, making it a perfect addition to your kitchen for those who love to cook Thai cuisine.

What We Like
Authentic Thai fish sauce
Prompt delivery
Great for cooking
Convenient squirt top
Well-packaged shipment
What We Don't Like
Mild aroma and flavor
Can be salty if overused
#TOP 7

Red Boat Fish Sauce

500 ml
Red Boat Fish Sauce Cover
Red Boat Fish Sauce | Premium 40°N fish sauce sustainably made with just two ingredients in Vietnam | Keto, Paleo, & Whole 30 friendly | Gluten and sugar free with no preservatives | 25fl oz. plastic PET bottle

Red Boat Premium Fish Sauce is made with only sea salt and black anchovies from Vietnam, fermented for a year using a traditional method. This first press 40N fish sauce offers pure flavor with high protein content. The family-owned brand, started by Cuong Pham, ensures authenticity and taste. Effortlessly add umami to your dishes like sauces, marinades, and soups. Enjoy the benefits of a product that is Paleo, Whole 30, and Keto friendly, with no preservatives or additives.

What We Like
Deep, rich umami flavor
Clean, simple ingredients
Authentic Vietnamese taste
Smooth, well-rounded profile
Versatile cooking uses
What We Don't Like
Higher price than some brands
#TOP 8

Red Boat Fish Sauce 8.45 oz

9680
Red Boat Fish Sauce 8.45 oz Cover
Red Boat Fish Sauce, 8.45 Fluid Ounce

Red Boat Fish Sauce is made from pure ingredients, giving you a natural and authentic flavor for your dishes. This sauce is crafted from the first pressing of fish, which means it’s packed with rich, fresh taste that can enhance your cooking. Being 100% pure, it contains no additives or fillers, so you get the true essence of fish sauce every time. Whether you’re seasoning a stir-fry or preparing a dipping sauce, Red Boat Fish Sauce helps you bring out the best in your meals with a quality you can trust.

What We Like
Rich umami flavor
No added MSG
Versatile in various cuisines
Mellow, not overly fishy
Enhances depth of dishes
What We Don't Like
Salty taste typical of fish sauce
#TOP 9

Wangshin Artisanal Korean Fish Sauce 5 fl oz

20251119
Fish (5 fl oz)
Wangshin Artisanal Korean Fish Sauce 5 fl oz Cover
Wangshin Fish Sauce (5 fl oz) | Artisanal Korean Fish Sauce Aged 2 Years | Made with Just Anchovy & Salt | Non-GMO Project Verified | No Preservatives

The Wangshin Korean Fish Sauce is crafted from fully fermented anchovies and salt, giving you a genuine and rich taste that enhances your dishes. Whether you're making a fresh salad dressing or a sizzling stir-fry, this sauce adds a deep, savory flavor that brings your cooking to life. It's also certified non-GMO, so you can trust it fits well with your dietary needs. With its strong umami profile, this sauce is a simple way to boost flavor and elevate your meals with authentic Korean tradition.

What We Like
Clean flavor profile
High-quality ingredients
Versatile usage
No strong aftertaste
Great umami boost
What We Don't Like
Smaller bottle size
Higher price point
#TOP 10

Dear Mam Premium Fish Sauce California Anchovy 1 Year

Dear Mam Fish Sauce
3 cups
Dear Mam Premium Fish Sauce California Anchovy 1 Year Cover
Dear Mam Premium Fish Sauce | California Anchovy | 1 Year Aged | Fermented Phu Quoc Vietnam | 24 fl oz

Dear Mam Fish Sauce offers a rich and authentic flavor thanks to its first press extraction, which ensures you get the purest and most intense taste from the fish. Made from high-quality California anchovies and sea salt, it contains no fillers, so you can trust what you’re adding to your meals is natural and wholesome. The sauce is naturally fermented for one year, giving it a deep umami flavor that enhances your dishes beautifully. Plus, it’s made with sustainability in mind, using responsible harvesting and zero waste practices, so you can feel good about your choice in both flavor and environmental impact.

What We Like
Clean ingredients
Authentic Vietnamese flavor
Smooth, well-balanced taste
Convenient small bottle
Good quality
What We Don't Like
Skepticism due to social media promotion
Buying Guide Image

The Best Fish Sauces to Buy Right Now

Introduction

Fish sauce is an essential condiment in many cuisines around the world, particularly in Southeast Asian dishes. It is made by fermenting fish and salt for several months, which creates a savory and pungent liquid that adds a unique depth of flavor to food. But with so many fish sauce brands on the market, it can be difficult to know which one to choose. In this article, we will provide some tips for selecting a high-quality fish sauce that will elevate your cooking to the next level.

Look for the Right Ingredients

One of the most important things to consider when choosing a fish sauce is the ingredients list. The best fish sauces are made from only two ingredients: fish and salt. Avoid fish sauces that contain preservatives, additives, and artificial flavors, as these can alter the flavor and reduce the quality of the sauce.

Additionally, look for fish sauces that are made from whole fish, rather than fish scraps or by-products. Whole fish will yield a richer and more complex flavor. It is also a good idea to check the label to see what type of fish the sauce is made from. Anchovies are the most commonly used type of fish for making fish sauce, but other varieties such as mackerel, tuna, and squid can also be used. Each type of fish will provide a slightly different flavor profile, so experimenting with different types can be a fun way to explore the world of fish sauce.

Consider the Region of Origin

Fish sauce is a traditional condiment in many parts of the world, but it is particularly popular in Southeast Asian cuisine. Each region has its own unique style of fish sauce, so it can be helpful to choose a fish sauce that is made in the region where you plan to use it. For example, Thai fish sauce is typically saltier and more pungent than Vietnamese fish sauce, which tends to be milder and sweeter.

Furthermore, the climate and fermentation conditions in each region can affect the flavor of the fish sauce. In general, fish sauces from warmer climates tend to have a stronger and more intense flavor, whereas those from cooler climates have a more subtle and nuanced flavor. Consider the climate of the region where you will be using the fish sauce, and choose a sauce that is well-suited to that climate.

Pay Attention to the Color and Consistency

The color and consistency of fish sauce can provide important clues about its quality and flavor. A high-quality fish sauce will have a rich golden or amber color, and a thick, syrupy consistency. Avoid fish sauces that are too light in color, as these may be diluted or of lower quality.

Additionally, look for fish sauces that are clear and free of sediment or other impurities. Sediment can indicate that the fish sauce has not been properly filtered, which can affect its flavor and overall quality. If you are unsure about the color and consistency of a particular fish sauce, you can always ask the seller or check online reviews for more information.

Taste Before You Buy

If possible, taste a small sample of the fish sauce before you buy it. This will give you a good idea of its flavor and how it will work in your cooking. Remember that fish sauce is a very strong condiment, so a little goes a long way. Start with a small amount, and add more to taste.

When tasting fish sauce, pay attention to its balance of flavors. A high-quality fish sauce will have a well-rounded flavor that is both savory and slightly sweet, with a hint of umami and a slight tang from the fermentation process. Avoid fish sauces that are overly salty, fishy, or bitter, as these can be unpleasant and overpower the flavor of your food.

Conclusion

Choosing the right fish sauce can be a daunting task, but with a little knowledge and a few simple tips, you can select a sauce that will elevate your cooking and add depth and complexity to your dishes. Look for fish sauces with simple ingredients lists, made from whole fish and consider the region of origin. Pay attention to the color and consistency, and taste before you buy to ensure that you are getting a high-quality fish sauce that will enhance the flavor of your food.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What sauces do you eat with fish?

There are various sauces that go well with fish, such as parsley sauce, smoked-almond romesco sauce, fresh herb sauce, rich ketchup sauce, mint sauce, lemon cream sauce, salmoriglio sauce, and red wine sauce. These sauces add flavor and enhance the taste of fish dishes, offering a variety of options to suit different preferences.

2. What sauces are best with fish sticks?

Fish sticks can be paired with a range of sauces, including tartar sauce, ketchup, BBQ sauce, nacho cheese, cocktail sauce, buffalo sauce, honey mustard, and ranch. These sauces complement the crispy texture of fish sticks and add a burst of flavor to every bite.

3. What to serve with fresh fish?

When serving fresh fish, you can consider pairing it with lemon butter sauce, vermicelli rice, oven-roasted potatoes, gremolata, cauliflower mac & cheese, air fryer french fries, bloves sauce, or roasted vegetable medley. These side dishes complement the flavors of the fish and create a well-rounded meal.

4. What can I eat with fish sticks besides tartar sauce?

In addition to tartar sauce, fish sticks can be enjoyed with a variety of side dishes. Some options include french fries, coleslaw, cheese dip, avocado fries, crispy green beans, hummus, blooming onion, steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, sweet potato fries, macaroni and cheese, and green salad. These side dishes provide a range of flavors and textures to accompany the fish sticks.

Editor's Notes

During our fish sauce research, we found 24 fish sauce products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 89,974 customer reviews through our big data system to write the fish sauces list. We found that most customers choose fish sauces with an average price of $16.37.

The fish sauces are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of fish sauces, including Red Boat, Thai Kitchen, Soeos, TastePadThai, WangShin. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 98 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

Written by
Ashley Abels Avatar

Ashley Abels is a former restaurant executive and has worked in the restaurant industry for 15 years. She is also a gourmet who loves tasting different cuisines and trying out all kinds of cooking methods. The food she writes about will make you want to try it!

Fish Sauces Comparison Table

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#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand Red Boat Thai Kitchen Red Boat Thai Kitchen Soeos TastePadThai Red Boat Red Boat WangShin Dear Mam Fish Sauce
Units 1.00 Count 23.66 Fluid Ounces 1.00 Fluid Ounces 6.76 Fluid Ounces 16.9 Ounce 23.0 Ounce 25.0 Ounce 8.4 Fluid Ounces 5.00 Fluid Ounces 1.0 Count
Flavor Original Premium Fish Sauce Fish Premium Fish Sauce Fish Sauce Fish Fish Savory Fish (5 fl oz) Fish
Package Information Bottle Bottle Bottle Bottle Bottle Bottle Bottle Bottle Bottle Bottle
Item Weight 0.62 Kilograms 1.55 Pounds 0.66 Ounces 16 ounces 1.33 Pounds 0.01 Ounces 0.98 Kilograms 0.32 Kilograms - 3.02 Pounds
Allergen Information Fish Dairy Free - Fish Fish - - Fish - -
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.7
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.8
ftb score rating icon 8.8
Where to Buy