The mysterious nuoc mam

Vietnamese nuoc mam is the best fish sauce ever. Anthony Bourdain says so. It was a staple in my diet growing up and I have continued the trend. I forget some times that most Yanks have never had any experience with it before.

What most people don't know is nuoc mam is also an offense weapon. Think: concentrated rotten fish (since that's what it essentially is).

I have a bottle with me at work...not because I actually use it on any dishes, but as a reminder to all my coworkers that I am not to be trifled with.

A coworker thought it would be funny to send a company wide email...from my computer when I wasn't in my office one day. I got the last laugh though.

I poured a shot of nuoc mam into his coffee cup, which he spat out...all over his office and pants. Now he has the affectionate nickname "Tuna Crotch".