The Best Chinese Sauces for Cooking Fish and Seafood

When it comes to cooking fish and seafood, the right sauce can elevate your dish to a whole new level. Chinese cuisine boasts a variety of sauces that enhance the natural flavors of these proteins, providing depth and a satisfying umami kick. Here’s a look at some of the best Chinese sauces for cooking fish and seafood.

1. Soy Sauce
One of the most versatile sauces in Chinese cooking, soy sauce is a staple for a reason. Its salty savoriness pairs well with fish and seafood, making it ideal for marinating, stir-frying, or drizzling over grilled dishes. The rich color of dark soy sauce also adds an appealing hue to your seafood dishes.

2. Oyster Sauce
Oyster sauce brings a rich, slightly sweet flavor that complements the delicate taste of fish and shellfish. Made by cooking oysters with salt and sugar, this sauce adds depth to dishes like stir-fried shrimp or glazed salmon. It works exceptionally well in combination with other sauces for a complex flavor profile.

3. Black Bean Sauce
This thick, flavorful sauce is made from fermented black soybeans and is perfect for adding a bold taste to seafood. Black bean sauce can be used to prepare dishes like black bean garlic prawns or a spicy fish stir-fry, enhancing the dish with its unique umami flavor.

4. Sweet and Sour Sauce
Sweet and sour sauce is beloved for its tangy flavor, making it a delightful accompaniment for battered and fried fish dishes. This sauce, often made from vinegar, sugar, and ketchup, is nostalgic and can be used for an array of seafood eats, particularly in Cantonese cuisine.

5. Chili Garlic Sauce
If you love a bit of spice, chili garlic sauce is an excellent choice for giving fish and seafood dishes a fiery kick. This sauce combines the heat of chili peppers with the rich flavors of garlic, making it perfect for spicy shrimp or grilled fish tacos.

6. Fish Sauce
Though not exclusively Chinese, fish sauce is widely used in Asian cooking, including in various Chinese dishes. It adds a pungent, salty flavor that intensifies the dish's taste. Use it sparingly in marinades or stir-fries to enhance the flavor of fish or shellfish.

7. Teriyaki Sauce
Though teriyaki sauce has Japanese origins, it has found its way into Chinese cooking as well. This sweet, tangy sauce made from soy sauce, mirin, and sugar is excellent for glazing fish such as salmon or tuna, creating a mouthwatering dish with delightful caramelization.

8. Ginger Scallion Sauce
Simple yet mighty, ginger scallion sauce is a mixture of fresh ginger, scallions, and oil. It’s a fresh, fragrant sauce that pairs beautifully with steamed or poached fish, bringing a refreshing burst of flavor that enhances the dish without overpowering it.

9. Shaoxing Wine Sauce
This Chinese cooking wine adds a deep, aromatic flavor to cooking. Marinating seafood in Shaoxing wine can enhance its natural sweetness and reduce its fishy smell. It’s also great for deglazing pans and adding depth to various seafood dishes.

10. Hoisin Sauce
Hoisin sauce is another versatile option, known for its sweet and tangy flavor. It can be used as a marinade for grilled fish or a dipping sauce for seafood. Its unique taste elevates dishes like barbecue shrimp or crispy fish skewers.

Incorporating these Chinese sauces into your seafood cooking can transform your meals into flavorful experiences. Whether you are grilling, stir-frying, or steaming, these sauces provide a perfect complement to a variety of fish and seafood. Experiment with combinations and techniques to discover unique flavors that will excite your palate!