Noodlepedia
A glossary of both familiar and lesser-known Asian ingredients and terms.
Fish Sauce
A salty, savory seasoning made from fermented anchovies—essential in Southeast Asian cooking for deep umami flavor.
Pro Tip: A few drops go a long way—use it like liquid gold in soups, stir-fries, and marinades.
How to Use It:
- Splash into pho or curry
- Mix into dressings or dipping sauces
- Add to stir-fries for depth
1. Vietnamese-Style Pickled Cucumbers
Bright, tangy, and addictive. A great side for rice dishes or grilled meats!
🛒 Ingredients:
1 large cucumber, thinly sliced
1 tbsp fish sauce
1 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tsp sugar
1 small garlic clove, minced
Optional: thinly sliced chili or red onion
👩🍳 Instructions:
Toss all ingredients together in a bowl and let sit for 10–15 minutes. That’s it!
🎀 Pro tip: These quick pickles get even better after a few hours in the fridge.
2. Savory Fish Sauce Noodles (Inspired by Vietnamese Bún)
Simple, bold, and full of umami. Serve warm or cold!
🛒 Ingredients:
Rice noodles (cooked)
1 tbsp fish sauce
1 tbsp lime juice
1 tsp sugar
1 tsp soy sauce
1 clove garlic, minced
Shredded carrot, sliced cucumber, and chopped herbs (mint, cilantro, basil)
Optional: protein like tofu, shrimp, or grilled chicken
👩🍳 Instructions:
Mix fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, soy sauce, and garlic into a quick dressing.
Toss with noodles and veggies. Top with protein if using.
🎀 Pro tip: Drizzle with chili crisp or crushed peanuts for extra flavor + crunch!