Homemade Hoisin Sauce

Homemade Hoisin Sauce is a thick, flavorful Asian condiment made from a combination of soy sauce, peanut butter (or tahini), garlic, vinegar, and sweeteners. This easy-to-make version delivers a perfect balance of sweet, salty, tangy, and umami-rich flavors—ideal for stir-fries, marinades, or dipping.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Made with simple pantry ingredients
• Ready in just 5 minutes—no cooking required
• Customizable for dietary needs (gluten-free, vegan, etc.)
• No preservatives or additives
• Delicious alternative to store-bought sauces

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• peanut butter (or tahini for nut-free option)
• rice vinegar or white vinegar
• honey or maple syrup
• garlic (minced or grated)
• sesame oil
• sriracha or chili sauce (optional for heat)
• Chinese five spice powder (optional but recommended)

Directions

1. Mix Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, peanut butter, vinegar, honey, minced garlic, sesame oil, and any optional ingredients like sriracha or five spice.
2. Adjust to taste: Add more honey for sweetness, more vinegar for tang, or a splash of water for a thinner consistency.
3. Store or Use: Use immediately or transfer to a clean jar and refrigerate. Shake or stir before each use.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: about ¾ cup
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 5 minutes

Variations

• Nut-free: Use tahini or sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter
• Vegan: Use maple syrup or agave instead of honey
• Spicy: Add more sriracha or a pinch of chili flakes
• Smoky: Stir in a drop of liquid smoke or smoked paprika

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight jar or container for up to 2 weeks
• Freezing: Can be frozen in small portions for up to 3 months
• Reheating: Not required; serve cold or at room temperature. Stir if separation occurs

FAQs

What does hoisin sauce taste like?

It’s sweet, salty, slightly tangy, and deeply savory with a hint of spice and umami.

Is hoisin sauce the same as soy sauce?

No. Soy sauce is salty and thin, while hoisin sauce is thicker, sweeter, and more complex in flavor.

Can I use almond butter instead of peanut butter?

Yes, almond butter or even cashew butter will work well.

How can I make it gluten-free?

Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.

Is hoisin sauce vegan?

Homemade versions can be vegan by using maple syrup or agave instead of honey.

Can I use hoisin sauce as a marinade?

Absolutely. It works great as a marinade for meats, tofu, or vegetables.

How long does homemade hoisin sauce last?

It lasts up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator in a sealed container.

Can I use this in stir-fries?

Yes, it’s excellent for stir-frying meats or vegetables for quick Asian-inspired meals.

Is hoisin sauce spicy?

It typically has a mild heat. You can adjust the spice level by adding or omitting chili sauce.

What can I use hoisin sauce with?

Use it as a dip for spring rolls, glaze for meats, sauce for noodles, or even in wraps and sandwiches.

Conclusion

This Homemade Hoisin Sauce is an easy, flavorful alternative to the store-bought version, offering fresh and customizable taste. Whether you’re cooking up stir-fries, glazing grilled meats, or simply dipping, this sauce adds depth and character to your dishes with minimal effort.

Print