Hoisin sauce

Hoisin sauce, often referred to as Chinese barbecue sauce, is a thick, fragrant sauce widely used in Chinese cuisine. Its name derives from the Cantonese words for seafood, but ironically, the sauce doesn’t contain any seafood ingredients. Instead, it’s made from a blend of soybeans, garlic, chili, and various spices, offering a sweet and salty taste with a hint of spice. Hoisin sauce is versatile, serving as a glaze for meat, a component in stir-fries, a condiment for pho, and a popular choice for Peking duck and mu shu pork.

• In a bowl, mix the fermented soybean paste (or peanut butter/miso paste if soybean paste is unavailable), minced garlic, sugar, white vinegar, sesame oil, soy sauce, and Chinese five-spice powder until well combined. If you prefer a spicy hoisin sauce, add hot sauce or chili paste to taste.
• Transfer the mixture to a saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and ensure the sugar fully dissolves.
• Continue to simmer the sauce for about 10 minutes, or until it thickens. The sauce should have a consistency similar to barbecue sauce. If it’s too thick, you can thin it with a small amount of water.
• Remove the sauce from the heat and let it cool. Once cooled, transfer it to a jar or an airtight container.

Storage Tips

Hoisin sauce can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to two weeks. The vinegar and sugar act as preservatives, extending the sauce’s shelf life.

Useful Properties of the Main Ingredient

Soybeans, the base ingredient in hoisin sauce, are a good source of protein, fiber, and vitamins. They contain antioxidants and phytonutrients that have been linked to various health benefits, including improved heart health and reduced risk of certain cancers.

Interesting Facts

• Hoisin sauce is a key ingredient in many Chinese dishes, but it has also been adopted by other Asian cuisines for its unique flavor.
• The term “hoisin” is derived from the Chinese word for seafood, although the sauce does not contain seafood and is used in a wide variety of dishes.
• Hoisin sauce’s unique flavor comes from the fermentation process of the soybeans, which is similar to how soy sauce is made but results in a completely different taste and texture.

This homemade hoisin sauce recipe provides a delicious, versatile condiment that can be easily made with accessible ingredients, offering a balance of sweet, salty, and umami flavors that can enhance a wide range of dishes.