What does hing mean?
Hing is a type of fermented fish sauce commonly used in Southeast Asian cuisine, particularly in Cambodian and Thai cooking. It is made from fermented fish and salt, and has a strong umami flavor. Hing is often used as a condiment to add depth and complexity to dishes, and is typically used in small amounts due to its potent flavor. The sauce is an essential ingredient in many traditional recipes, and is prized for its ability to enhance the flavors of other ingredients. With its rich, savory taste, hing is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from soups and stews to stir-fries and marinades.
nounA type of fermented fish sauce used in Southeast Asian cuisine, particularly in Cambodian and Thai cooking.
- A fermented fish sauce
- A condiment used in Southeast Asian cooking
"The recipe called for a splash of hing to add depth to the soup."
"The market sold a variety of hing from different producers."
"She added a dash of hing to the stir-fry for extra flavor."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of hing
The word 'hing' is derived from the Cambodian language, in which it is written as 'ሕિંગ' and pronounced similarly to the English word. It is related to the Thai word 'nam pla', which also refers to a type of fermented fish sauce. The use of fermented fish sauces dates back thousands of years, with evidence of their production found in ancient Southeast Asian cultures.
How hing is actually used
Often used in small amounts due to its strong umami flavor.