Sauce | Vegan Vegetarian

Hoisin Sauce

N/A (Prepared Sauce) Allergens: Soy, Wheat
hoisin sauce

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family N/A (Processed Product, Primary ingredient is soy)
  • Primary Cuisine East Asian
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Soybeans, Sweet potato, Garlic

The Forktionary Angle

"The quintessential sweet and savory umami bomb of Cantonese cuisine, offering depth and shine to countless dishes."

Definition

A thick, dark, sweet, and savory sauce essential in Chinese cuisine, made from fermented soybeans, garlic, vinegar, and spices.

Sensory Profile

TasteSweet, Salty, Umami, Savory, Slightly Spicy
TextureThick, Viscous, Smooth
AromaPungent, Garlic, Sweet, Fermented
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Common Usage

Essential for Peking Duck and Mu Shu Pork

Primary Ingredient

Fermented soybeans are the base

Storage After Opening

Refrigerate up to 6 months

Nutrition Facts

Per 30 ml (2 tbsp)
Calories257 kcal
Total Fat1 g
Saturated Fat0.1 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Protein2.1 g
Total Carbohydrate58 g
Dietary Fiber1.4 g
Total Sugars51 g
Calcium40 mg
Iron0.8 mg
Potassium190 mg

Chef’s Secret

For a richer hoisin glaze, reduce it slightly over low heat until it coats the back of a spoon, then brush onto meats during the final cooking stages.

Substitutions

Best Match

BBQ Sauce (Asian-style or Sweet & Smoky)

1:1

Good for glazes and marinades, provides similar sweetness and savory depth.

Teriyaki Sauce

1:1

Offers a sweet and umami profile, but lighter in texture and less complex flavor.

Plum Sauce

1:1

Similar sweetness and fruitiness, but less savory and garlic-forward than hoisin.

Miso Paste + Honey + Soy Sauce + Garlic

Varies

DIY option to replicate complex savory-sweet-garlic notes, customizable.

Buying Guide

Check for natural ingredients, avoid high fructose corn syrup if possible. Look for 'authentic' brands.

Flavor Pairings

Duck Pork Ribs Stir-fries Spring Rolls Lettuce Wraps Noodles

Recipes Using Hoisin Sauce

Technique Steak Chinese Preparation

3 Dragons Szechuan Steak

Ignite your taste buds with this fiery 3 Dragons Szechuan Steak! This Asian-inspired recipe delivers a sizzling blend of savory steak, aromatic vegetables, and a mouthwatering Szechuan sauce. Ready in under an hour, it's surprisingly easy to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests. Double the chili for extra heat! Serve with cold sesame noodles for a complete and unforgettable meal. #SzechuanSteak #AsianRecipe #SpicyFood #QuickDinner #EasyRecipe #SteakRecipe

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For 1 Or 2 Seafood Time To Make Main Ingredient

Amaretto Oriental Salmon

Experience a culinary fusion with this Amaretto Oriental Salmon recipe! Sweet Amaretto, savory soy sauce, and zesty lime create an unforgettable glaze for perfectly baked salmon fillets (or steaks!). This easy recipe, adapted from about.com, is ready in under 2 hours and features a vibrant marinade infused with ginger, sesame oil, and hoisin sauce. Garnish with lemon slices and fresh asparagus for an elegant presentation. Prepare to impress!

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Course 60 Minutes Or Less Time To Make Preparation

Applebee's Crispy Orange Chicken Bowl

Recreate the irresistible Applebee's Crispy Orange Chicken Bowl at home! This recipe delivers tender, crispy chicken tossed in a vibrant orange sauce, served over fluffy rice with fresh vegetables. A complete and satisfying meal, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun weekend treat. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

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Course Preparation Dietary Low Carb

Asian Barbecue Chicken Salad

Fire up your grill for this incredible Asian Barbecue Chicken Salad, inspired by Camp Robber Cafe in Montrose, CO! This Bon Appetit-approved recipe features juicy grilled chicken slathered in a homemade Asian barbecue sauce, tossed with crunchy croutons, crisp lettuce, and a tangy poppy seed dressing. Get ready for a flavor explosion in every bite!

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60 Minutes Or Less 60 Minutes Or Less Preparation Time To Make

Asian Barbecued Pork Tenderloin

Experience a burst of Asian flavors with this succulent Barbecued Pork Tenderloin recipe, inspired by Marlene Koch's "Fantastic Food with Splenda." This recipe uses a rich and complex hoisin-based marinade (Koon Chun brand recommended) to create tender, flavorful pork perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. The marinade infuses the pork with sweet, spicy, and savory notes, resulting in a dish that's both easy to make and incredibly delicious. Prep time doesn't include the essential marinating time, allowing you to tailor it to your schedule.

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Meat Meat Easy Beef

Asian Beef Lettuce Wraps

Craving a quick, flavorful weeknight dinner? These Asian Beef Lettuce Wraps are the perfect solution! This family-favorite recipe bursts with delicious Asian-inspired flavors – savory beef, crisp vegetables, and a tangy sauce – all nestled in crisp lettuce cups. Easy to customize to your spice preference, it's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

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Chicken Main Ingredient Poultry Time To Make

Asian Chicken Orzo Salad

A vibrant and flavorful Asian-inspired pasta salad perfect for potlucks, summer gatherings, or a light weeknight meal. This recipe, inspired by Paula Deen, features tender chicken, crunchy water chestnuts, and a zesty Asian-inspired dressing. Easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser!

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Dietary Course Main Ingredient Number Of Servings

Asian Glazed Pork Chops

These succulent Asian Glazed Pork Chops are a quick and easy weeknight dinner! Tender pork chops are perfectly glazed with a savory hoisin sauce, then served over fluffy rice with vibrant broccoli. Ready in under 20 minutes, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

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4 Hours Or Less Crock Pot Slow Cooker 3 Steps Or Less 4 Hours Or Less

Asian Inspired Chili

Spice up your chili game with this Asian-inspired twist! Developed over years to perfectly utilize hoisin sauce, this recipe delivers a rich, thick chili brimming with umami. Perfect for a cozy night in, it's easily adaptable to your slow cooker – simply toss everything in and cook on low for 6 hours. Prefer a thinner chili? No problem! Just add water or broth to reach your desired consistency. Get ready for a flavor adventure!

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Main Dish Main Ingredient Low Carb Time To Make

Asian Short Ribs With Carrots And Rice

Fall-apart tender Asian short ribs braised in a rich, savory sauce with sweet carrots and fluffy rice. This easy recipe delivers incredible flavor in just over 2 hours! A perfect weeknight meal or impressive dinner party dish. Stew meat can be substituted for short ribs if needed.

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Low In Something Preparation Low Carb Main Ingredient

Asian Sloppy Joes

Experience a delicious fusion of flavors with these Asian Sloppy Joes! A tantalizing twist on a classic comfort food, this recipe features tender beef simmered in a savory hoisin-lemon sauce, served over fluffy white rice and vibrant steamed vegetables. Inspired by r. Reisman, this easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

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Barbecue Low In Something Occasion Grilling

Asian Steak Salad

Sizzle into summer with this vibrant Asian Steak Salad! Juicy grilled steak is tossed with a refreshing Asian slaw and a tangy hoisin lime dressing. A quick and easy recipe perfect for a light yet satisfying weeknight dinner. Optional additions like diced tart apples or mandarin oranges add extra sweetness and texture.

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Number Of Servings Stir Fry Stove Top Main Ingredient

Asparagus Chicken Stir Fry

Ready in 20 minutes, this vibrant Asparagus Chicken Stir-Fry is a delicious and healthy weeknight meal! Tender chicken and crisp-tender asparagus are tossed in a sweet and savory hoisin sauce. Serve over fluffy rice for a complete and satisfying dinner.

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Equipment Small Appliance Holiday Event Savory

Barbecue Pork Buns

Indulge in the irresistible flavor of authentic-looking barbecue pork buns! These sweet and savory buns boast a deliciously thick, homemade barbecue sauce and tender pork filling. Perfect for a crowd-pleasing meal, prepare them a day ahead or simply re-steam frozen buns for a quick 5-minute delight. Get ready for a taste sensation!

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Asian Time To Make Asian Dietary

Barbecued Roast Pork Tenderloin Char Shui

Experience the ultimate flavor explosion with this succulent Barbecued Roast Pork Tenderloin Char Siu! Our mouthwatering recipe features a signature glaze that elevates this classic dish to new heights. Perfect served hot or cold, and fantastic in sandwiches the next day – leftovers are a treat! (Prep time excludes marinating and resting.)

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Preparation Course Main Dish Meat

Bbq Chicken Legs With Sauteed Veggies

Enjoy this mouthwatering recipe for BBQ chicken legs with perfectly sauteed veggies, inspired by Coup de Pouce! Tender, juicy chicken legs glazed with a sweet and savory BBQ sauce are paired with vibrant, crisp-tender vegetables. A quick and easy weeknight meal the whole family will love.

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Dinner Party Time To Make Beef Brunch

Dynasty Burger

Experience the explosive flavors of Asia with Martin Yan's Dynasty Burger! This quick and easy recipe delivers juicy, flavorful patties topped with a tangy hoisin barbecue sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun weekend cookout.

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Oven Main Ingredient 4 Hours Or Less Meat

Spicy Chinese Pork Tenderloin

Elevate your weeknight dinner with this incredibly flavorful Spicy Chinese Pork Tenderloin! This easy recipe, originally from a local newspaper's syndicated cooking column, is a crowd-pleaser perfect for company or a special treat. Tender pork tenderloin is marinated in a vibrant blend of soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and a touch of spice (easily omitted for milder palates), then roasted to juicy perfection. Served over fluffy rice and drizzled with a luscious, homemade sauce, this dish is guaranteed to impress. Grill it for smoky char or bake it in the oven for ultimate convenience – either way, get ready for a flavor explosion!

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