Hoisin Sauce

Hoisin Sauce is a thick, fragrant sauce commonly used in Chinese cuisine as a glaze for meat, an addition to stir-fries, or as a dipping sauce. It is typically available year-round and is not subject to seasonality. Hoisin sauce is a staple in many Asian dishes, particularly those from Cantonese cuisine, and is known for its sweet and salty flavor profile, which can add a complex taste to a variety of dishes.

Hoisin Sauce Synonyms

海鲜酱
Peking sauce

Hoisin Sauce Substitutes

Different Forms/Types of Hoisin Sauce

Tub

Larger quantities of hoisin sauce may come in plastic tubs, which are useful for frequent users or commercial kitchens.

Jarred

Similar to bottled, but in glass jars, which some cooks prefer for maintaining flavor and avoiding potential interaction with plastic.

Bottled

Hoisin sauce is most commonly found in bottles, which can range from small to large sizes depending on the brand and intended use.

How to Choose Hoisin Sauce

When selecting hoisin sauce, look for options with a deep, rich color and a balance of sweet and savory flavors. The ingredients list should be free from unnecessary additives or preservatives. A shorter ingredient list often indicates a more traditional and potentially higher-quality sauce. Consider the salt and sugar content based on your dietary preferences and cooking needs.

Cooking/Prep Tips for Hoisin Sauce

Hoisin Sauce is a thick, fragrant sauce commonly used in Chinese cuisine. It's sweet and salty with a hint of spice, making it a versatile ingredient in many dishes. When cooking with Hoisin Sauce, it's important to use it sparingly due to its strong flavor. It can be used as a glaze, marinade, or as an addition to stir-fries. Since it's already fully cooked, it's best to add Hoisin Sauce towards the end of cooking to prevent it from burning and to maintain its flavor profile. For glazing, brush it onto meats during the last few minutes of roasting or grilling. As a marinade, combine it with other ingredients to balance its intensity and marinate for several hours for deep flavor infusion.

Shelf Life of Hoisin Sauce

Hoisin sauce should be stored in a cool, dark place before opening. Once opened, it must be refrigerated to maintain its quality. Ensure the cap is tightly sealed after each use to prevent contamination and drying out. Properly stored, hoisin sauce can last several months in the refrigerator. If the sauce begins to darken significantly or develop an off smell, it's time to replace it.

Recommended Brands for Hoisin Sauce

tub hoisin sauce: Huy Fong

jarred hoisin sauce: Kikkoman

bottled hoisin sauce: Lee Kum Kee

Cooking Techniques for Hoisin Sauce

Glazing: Apply Hoisin Sauce to meats or vegetables during the last few minutes of roasting or grilling to create a sticky, caramelized coating.

Marinating: Use Hoisin Sauce as a base for marinades, mixing it with ingredients like soy sauce, garlic, and sesame oil. Marinate proteins for several hours to tenderize and infuse them with flavor.

Stir-frying: Incorporate Hoisin Sauce into stir-fries by adding it towards the end of cooking. This allows the sauce to coat the ingredients and heat through without burning.

Popular Hoisin Sauce Recipes

Peking Duck
Hoisin Pork Ribs
Beef Ho Fun (Stir-Fried Rice Noodles with Beef)

Hoisin Sauce Nutritional Information (100g)

fat: 3.4 g
fiber: 2.7 g
sugar: 35 g
protein: 2.5 g
calories: 220 kcal
carbohydrates: 44.3 g

Flavor Combinations

Hoisin Sauce pairs well with a variety of flavors and ingredients. It complements the richness of meats like pork, duck, and beef, and adds depth to vegetables like bell peppers and broccoli. Common flavor pairings include ginger, garlic, sesame oil, and rice vinegar. Fresh herbs like cilantro and green onions can provide a bright contrast to the sauce's richness. Hoisin also works well with citrus flavors, such as orange or lemon, which can cut through its sweetness.

Allergen Information

Hoisin sauce commonly contains soy and wheat, which are potential allergens. Individuals with allergies to these ingredients should avoid hoisin sauce or seek out allergen-free alternatives.

Ingredient Comparisons

Recipes with Hoisin Sauce

Spicy Braised Pork in Hoisin Sauce