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Homemade Fish Sauce

Name: Homemade Fish Sauce
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 60 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: {'ingredient': 'Anchovy fillets', 'amount': '1 cup'}; {'ingredient': 'Sea salt', 'amount': '1/2 cup'}; {'ingredient': 'Water', 'amount': '2 cups'}; {'ingredient': 'Garlic', 'amount': '4 cloves, minced'}; {'ingredient': 'Thai chili peppers', 'amount': '2, chopped (adjust to taste)'}; {'ingredient': 'Sugar', 'amount': '2 tablespoons'}; {'ingredient': 'Lime juice', 'amount': '1/4 cup'}

Dive into the depths of umami with this homemade fish sauce, a vital ingredient in many Southeast Asian cuisines. This savory condiment is crafted from anchovies and infused with the bright flavors of lime, garlic, and Thai chilies. Perfect for drizzling over noodles, enhancing marinades, or adding a delicious kick to stir-fries, this fish sauce elevates any dish it touches. With roots tracing back to ancient times, fish sauce has been a culinary staple for centuries, cherished for its robust flavor and versatility.

Servings: Approximately 16 servings (1 tablespoon each)

Ingredients

Anchovy fillets: 1 cup
Sea salt: 1/2 cup
Water: 2 cups
Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
Thai chili peppers: 2, chopped (adjust to taste)
Sugar: 2 tablespoons
Lime juice: 1/4 cup

Instructions

In a clean jar or container, combine the anchovy fillets, sea salt, and water. Stir well until the salt is fully dissolved.
Cover the jar with a lid or plastic wrap and let it sit at room temperature for 3 to 4 days. Stir the mixture occasionally to encourage the fermentation process.
After 3 to 4 days, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into another bowl to remove any solids, pressing gently to extract all the liquid.
To the strained liquid, add the sugar, minced garlic, chopped Thai chili peppers, and lime juice. Stir well until the sugar is dissolved and all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
Transfer the finished fish sauce to a clean jar or bottle with an airtight seal. Refrigerate for at least 1 week before using to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Use this fish sauce as a condiment or ingredient in various recipes to enhance depth and umami flavor.

Dietary Information

Servings: Approximately 16 servings (1 tablespoon each) • Dish Type: Condiment • Prep Time: 10 minutes • Fermentation Time: 3-4 days • Refrigeration Time: 1 week • Calories: 20 • Fat: 0g • Carbs: 4g • Protein: 1g • Sodium: 800mg • Sugar: 1g