Fish sauce is a condiment derived from fish that have been allowed to ferment. It is an essential ingredient in many curries and sauces. Fish sauce is a staple ingredient in Vietnamese, Thai, Lao, Philippine cuisine and is used in other Southeast Asian countries. In addition to being added to cooking, fish sauce can also be used as a dipping condiment upon being prepared by reducing the saltiness, and it is done in many different ways by each country mentioned for fish, shrimp, pork, and chicken. In southern China, it is used as an ingredient for soups and casseroles.