Is Fish sauce vegan?
Not vegan
No — fish sauce is fermented anchovies and salt.
Also listed as: nuoc mam, nam pla, patis
Why
It gives Southeast Asian cooking its salty depth. Vegan versions ferment pineapple, soy or seaweed and hit a very similar note.
What to check on the label
- Anchovy extract in curry pastes
- Fish sauce in dressings and dips
- "Vegan fish sauce" labels
Swap it for
Seaweed + soy sauceVegan fish sauceLight soy + lime + sugar
Questions people ask
How do I replicate the funk?
Simmer kombu in soy sauce with a little sugar and lime; add miso for depth.
Are curry pastes vegan?
Often not — shrimp paste and fish sauce are standard. Check for vegan-labelled pastes.