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Bowl of homemade hoisin sauce with fresh ingredients on a wooden table

Hoisin Sauce

A fragrant and flavorful homemade Hoisin Sauce that elevates meals with its unique blend of sweet and savory notes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Condiment, Sauce
Cuisine: Asian, Chinese
Calories: 100
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce (light sodium) Brings saltiness with less sodium; regular soy sauce works too.
  • 2 tablespoons natural peanut butter (unsweetened) Adds creamy richness; almond butter can be a good alternative.
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup (or honey) Provides sweetness; agave syrup is an alternative for a vegan touch.
  • 1 tablespoon chili sauce Gives the sauce its spice; sriracha can be used for more heat.
  • 1 tablespoon molasses Helps deepen flavor; brown sugar can replace it in a pinch.
  • 2 teaspoons rice vinegar For acidity; apple cider vinegar works well too.
  • 2 teaspoons sesame oil Enhances nuttiness; can use olive oil if sesame isn’t available.
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced) Freshness adds flavor; garlic powder is a substitute.
  • 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger Provides warmth; powdered ginger can complement.
  • 1/8 teaspoon black pepper A light pepper taste; leave it out if preferred.
  • 1 teaspoon miso paste An umami powerhouse; tahini can substitute if necessary.
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch Thickens the mixture; arrowroot starch can take its place.
  • 2 tablespoons water Helps control the thickness; feel free to add more if needed.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Add all the sauce ingredients to a small saucepan over medium-high heat and whisk to combine.
  2. Bring it to a boil, then lower the heat to medium to maintain a simmer.
  3. In a small bowl, combine water and cornstarch until the cornstarch is fully dissolved.
  4. Whisk it into the sauce and continue simmering until it starts to thicken.
  5. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of boiling water, one tablespoon at a time.
  6. Remove the pan from heat and let it cool; sauce will thicken more as it cools.

Notes

Serve as a dip or mix into stir-fries. Common mistakes: Overcooking the sauce can reduce flavors. Adjust to taste as you go! Make a double batch for later use, and let it sit overnight for richer flavors.