Hoisin sauce is one of the standards of Asian dishes and most frequently associated with Peking duck and Mu Shu pork.
Fermented soybeans make up the base for this dark, red-tinged sauce, which explains the sometimes pungent and offsetting aroma. When added to marinades or used as a dipping sauce, however, a wonderful burst of flavors is uncovered. Other ingredients include sugar, salt, vinegar, and spices, which give it the descriptive sweet/sour/salty taste.
Hoisin, Peking (or duck) sauce, and Asian barbecue sauce are the same product.
Hoisin sauce is found in most grocery stores, but brands will be limited (one; no more than two). Asian markets will have a wider selection. Among these, taste and consistency may vary based on ingredients.
Unopened, it can remain unrefrigerated for about twelve months. After opening, refrigerate – it will keep almost indefinitely.
Jarred products are preferred, but if purchased in a can, open and transfer to a glass or plastic container, then refrigerate.
Try one of our favorite hoisin sauce recipes:
Chinese-Style Spareribs
Barbecued Spareribs
Tofu with Hoisin Sauce
Suggested Pairings
Bean sprouts, beef, duck, fish, mush
View BigOven's hoisin-sauce recipes