Hoisin Sauce

      Hoisin sauce has become one of my go-to homemade sauce. Making it from scratch delivers a far superior flavor compared to store-bought versions! This versatile sauce is perfect for stir-fries, marinades, and glazes.

Many store-bought hoisin sauces tend to be overly salty, too sweet, or excessively thick. But this homemade version strikes the perfect balance, savory, slightly sweet, tangy, and packed with umami. It pairs beautifully with chicken, salmon, ribs, tofu, and vegetables.

Since perfecting this recipe, I’ve found endless ways to use it. From glazing salmon and tossing it with tofu to creating sticky hoisin ribs, this sauce has become a staple in my kitchen. It also makes an excellent addition to chicken lettuce wraps!

Ingredients : 

• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic, finely minced or grated
• One 1-inch thumb-size piece fresh ginger, finely minced or grated
• 2 green onions, whites and light green parts only, finely minced
• 5 tablespoons (65g) light tamari or light soy sauce, plus more to taste
• 5 tablespoons (65g) pure maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons (30g) molasses
• 1 tablespoon (20g) peanut butter
• 1 ½ teaspoons Gochujang, see notes
• 1 teaspoon rice wine vinegar
• 1/4 teaspoon Chinese Five Spice, see notes
• 1/4 teaspoon cornstarch

Key Ingredients : 

• Garlic, Ginger, and Green Onion : These fresh aromatics add depth and brightness to the sauce. The ginger, in particular, enhances its bold flavor.
• Light Tamari or Soy Sauce : The base of the sauce, providing the signature salty, umami-rich taste. Tamari has a smoother, cleaner flavor, while light soy sauce is a great alternative.
• Maple Syrup & Molasses : These natural sweeteners help balance the saltiness and add richness.
• Peanut Butter : Adds complexity without overpowering the sauce. If needed, tahini or almond butter can be used as substitutes.
• Gochujang : This Korean chili paste mimics the deep, fermented flavors found in traditional hoisin sauce. If unavailable, miso paste with a dash of hot sauce makes a great alternative.
• Rice Wine Vinegar : A small amount enhances the sauce’s tanginess and brings the flavors together.
• Chinese Five Spice : A warm, aromatic blend of star anise, fennel, Szechuan peppercorns, cloves, and cinnamon. Found in most spice aisles.
• Cornstarch : Helps thicken the sauce for a perfect consistency (optional but recommended).

Instructions : 

     Making your own hoisin sauce is quick and simple, just 15 minutes and a few basic kitchen tools! All you need is a small saucepan and a whisk or spoon.

• In a small saucepan, heat sesame oil over medium heat.
• Add minced garlic, grated ginger, and chopped green onion.
• Cook for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft and fragrant. Remove from heat to cool slightly.
• Stir in light soy sauce (or tamari), maple syrup, molasses, peanut butter, gochujang, rice wine vinegar, and Chinese Five Spice.
• Return the pan to medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring continuously.
• Taste then adjust with additional soy sauce if needed.
• Prepare a cornstarch slurry by mixing ½ teaspoon of cornstarch with 2 teaspoons of water.
• Slowly whisk the slurry into the simmering sauce. It will thicken as it cooks.
• Once the desired consistency is reached, remove from heat and allow it to cool.

Storing Homemade Hoisin Sauce : 

To keep your homemade hoisin sauce fresh and flavorful, follow these storage tips:

• Refrigeration: Store the sauce in an airtight glass jar in the fridge for up to one month. If separation occurs, simply give it a good shake or stir before using.
• Freezing: For longer storage, transfer the sauce to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before using and stir well to restore its consistency.

This way, you’ll always have delicious homemade hoisin sauce ready for your favorite dishes!

Tips for Making the Best Hoisin Sauce : 

• Gochujang Substitute: Gochujang is a spicy, fermented Korean condiment. If you prefer a milder version, swap it with miso paste and add a dash of hot sauce or chili paste for extra heat.
• Customize to Your Taste: Adjust the spice, sweetness, and saltiness to suit your preferences. You can tweak the maple syrup for sweetness or add more soy sauce for a bolder flavor.
• Sauce Thickness: Keep the sauce thinner for easy tossing in stir-fries or glazing meats, or add extra cornstarch for a thicker consistency.
• Gluten-Free Option: Ensure all ingredients, especially soy sauce or tamari, are certified gluten-free if needed.

Nutrition (Per 2 Tbsp. Serving)

• Calories: 86
• Total Fat: 2.8g
• Saturated Fat: 0.5g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 290 mg
• Carbohydrates: 14.8g
• Fiber: 0.3g
• Total Sugars: 12.3g
• Protein: 1.3g

This homemade hoisin sauce is versatile, flavorful, and easy to customize for any dish!