What's the Best Substitute for Hoisin Sauce?
Whether you're out of Hoisin Sauce or looking for a healthier alternative, finding the right substitute can save your recipe. Sweet and savory Chinese sauce made from fermented soybeans In this guide, we'll explore the best substitutes that work in most recipes and help you achieve similar results.
Quick Answer
The best substitutes for hoisin sauce are Oyster Sauce + Brown Sugar + Soy Sauce, BBQ Sauce + Soy Sauce + Honey, and Miso Paste + Honey + Soy Sauce + Rice Vinegar. Use 2 tbsp oyster sauce + 1 tbsp brown sugar + 1 tbsp soy sauce, or 2 tbsp BBQ sauce + 1 tbsp soy sauce + 1 tbsp honey.
Best Substitutes for Hoisin Sauce
Oyster Sauce + Brown Sugar + Soy Sauce
Ratio
2 tbsp oyster sauce + 1 tbsp brown sugar + 1 tbsp soy sauce
Best For
- Chinese dishes
- when you want authentic umami
- marinades
- glazes
- stir-fries
Description
Umami-rich combination with sweetness and saltiness that closely mimics hoisin sauce flavor profile.
Mix oyster sauce with brown sugar and soy sauce. This combination provides the sweet, salty, and umami flavors characteristic of hoisin sauce.
BBQ Sauce + Soy Sauce + Honey
Ratio
2 tbsp BBQ sauce + 1 tbsp soy sauce + 1 tbsp honey
Best For
- when you want sweet-tangy profile
- American-Chinese fusion
- marinades
- glazes
Description
Sweet and tangy combination with umami that provides similar flavor complexity to hoisin sauce.
Mix BBQ sauce with soy sauce and honey. This combination provides sweetness and tanginess similar to hoisin sauce.
Miso Paste + Honey + Soy Sauce + Rice Vinegar
Ratio
1 tbsp miso paste + 1 tbsp honey + 1 tbsp soy sauce + 1 tsp rice vinegar
Best For
- when you want fermented flavor
- authentic Asian dishes
- marinades
- sauces
Description
Fermented umami with sweetness and acidity that mimics the complex flavor profile of hoisin sauce.
Mix miso paste with honey, soy sauce, and rice vinegar. This combination provides fermented umami and sweetness similar to hoisin sauce.
Teriyaki Sauce + Soy Sauce + Honey
Ratio
2 tbsp teriyaki sauce + 1 tbsp soy sauce + 1 tbsp honey
Best For
- when you want similar flavor profile
- quick substitutions
- marinades
- glazes
Description
Sweet and savory combination that provides similar flavor profile to hoisin sauce.
Mix teriyaki sauce with soy sauce and honey. This combination provides sweetness and savory flavors similar to hoisin sauce.
Soy Sauce + Honey + Peanut Butter + Rice Vinegar
Ratio
2 tbsp soy sauce + 1 tbsp honey + 1 tbsp peanut butter + 1 tsp rice vinegar
Best For
- when you want nutty flavor
- dipping sauces
- marinades
- glazes
Description
Sweet, salty, and nutty combination that provides complex flavor similar to hoisin sauce.
Mix soy sauce with honey, peanut butter, and rice vinegar. This combination provides sweetness, saltiness, and nuttiness similar to hoisin sauce.
Plum Sauce + Soy Sauce + Honey
Ratio
2 tbsp plum sauce + 1 tbsp soy sauce + 1 tbsp honey
Best For
- when you want fruity sweetness
- Chinese dishes
- marinades
- glazes
Description
Fruity and sweet combination with umami that provides similar flavor profile to hoisin sauce.
Mix plum sauce with soy sauce and honey. This combination provides fruity sweetness and umami similar to hoisin sauce.
How to Choose the Right Substitute
When choosing a substitute for Hoisin Sauce, consider the recipe's requirements for taste, texture, and cooking method. Think about whether you need something that mimics the original exactly or if a different but complementary flavor would work. Also consider dietary restrictions and availability of ingredients.
Cooking Tips
Hoisin sauce is thick and sweet, perfect for glazing
It contains fermented soybeans for umami flavor
Store in refrigerator after opening
Use sparingly as it's very concentrated
Always taste and adjust seasonings when using substitutes
Consider the cooking method - some substitutes work better in certain applications
Frequently Asked Questions
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