Easy Hoisin Sauce

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Sweet, salty, and umami-rich, this Easy Hoisin Sauce is a game-changer for your pantry. It brings bold Asian-inspired flavors into your kitchen with just a few minutes of prep. Whether you’re glazing meat, tossing noodles, or adding a punch to your stir-fry, this homemade hoisin is leagues above the store-bought version in taste and freshness.

Perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend feasts, this sauce balances soy, garlic, vinegar, and a touch of sweetness into a silky, glossy finish that clings beautifully to whatever it touches. With no additives or mystery ingredients, you can finally enjoy restaurant-style flavor from the comfort of home.

What Makes a Good Hoisin Sauce?

A great hoisin sauce hits the perfect harmony between salty, sweet, and tangy. Traditional versions include fermented soybean paste, but this simplified homemade option uses peanut butter for richness, balanced with soy sauce and vinegar for the umami and sharpness. The addition of garlic, sesame, and a touch of heat makes it pop.

If you’re looking for something smoother and versatile, this recipe adapts well to dipping sauces, marinades, or as a secret ingredient in other savory dishes.

Ingredients for the Easy Hoisin Sauce

• Soy Sauce: The salty base of the sauce, it delivers umami depth and balances the sweetness.
• Peanut Butter: A creamy alternative to fermented soybean paste, adding richness and body.
• Molasses or Honey: For the signature sweetness. Molasses adds complexity; honey keeps it bright.
• Rice Vinegar: Brings the needed acidity to balance the sauce.
• Garlic Powder: For savory warmth.
• Sesame Oil: A small amount gives a deep nutty aroma.
• Sriracha or Chili Garlic Sauce: Just a dash to add heat and enhance flavor.
• Five Spice Powder (Optional): A classic Chinese spice blend that rounds out the profile.

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How To Make the Easy Hoisin Sauce

Step 1: Mix the Base

In a small mixing bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup soy sauce and 2 tablespoons of creamy peanut butter until smooth and fully combined.

Step 2: Add Sweet and Tangy Elements

Add 1 tablespoon molasses (or honey), and 1 tablespoon rice vinegar. Mix until everything is blended.

Step 3: Season it Up

Stir in 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil, and 1 teaspoon sriracha or chili garlic sauce. For added depth, sprinkle in 1/4 teaspoon five-spice powder.

Step 4: Adjust and Store

Taste and adjust the sweetness or heat to your liking. Store in a sealed jar in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

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Serving and Storing Homemade Hoisin Sauce

This sauce is incredibly versatile. Use it as a glaze on meats like chicken, pork, or beef, or drizzle it over roasted vegetables. It’s perfect as a dipping sauce for egg rolls or dumplings, and it transforms stir-fried noodles or rice bowls.

Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays fresh for about 10-14 days. If it thickens, just stir in a splash of warm water before using.

What to Serve With Easy Hoisin Sauce?

Stir-Fried Veggies

Drizzle it over quick-fried broccoli, bell peppers, or green beans.

Grilled Chicken or Pork

Brush it on in the last few minutes of grilling for a sticky, caramelized glaze.

Lettuce Wraps

Layer it with ground meat and crispy veggies for a flavor-packed bite.

Asian-Inspired Burgers

Mix it into mayo or spread directly on buns for a savory twist.

Spring Rolls

Use it as a bold, flavorful dipping sauce.

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Want More Sauce and Dip Ideas?

If this homemade hoisin sauce hits the spot, here are a few more flavor-boosting favorites to explore:

• KFC-Style Gravy for comforting mashed potatoes or fried chicken.
• Shrimp Butter Spread for seafood lovers.
• Refreshing Marinated Cucumbers for a bright, tangy side.
• Roasted Cauliflower Green Goddess Salad for a veggie-packed main.
• Easy Marinated Mushrooms for a quick, savory snack.

Save This Pin For Later

Save this delicious idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to whip it up again.

Tried it with a twist? Maybe added fresh ginger or used almond butter instead? I’d love to hear how it turned out—drop your tips or questions in the comments below.

Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen.com on Pinterest. Your next favorite might be waiting there.

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