Definition: Hoisin sauce, also called Chinese barbecue sauce is a fragrant, pungent sauce used frequently in Asian stir-fries and marinades and Asian-style grilled dishes (pictured at right: grilled tofu with hoisin sauce and grilled broccoli tossed with hoisin sauce). Made from a combination of fermented soy, garlic, vinegar, and usually chilis and sweetener, hoisin is dark in color and thick in consistency. It has a very strong salty and slightly sweet flavor, which some may find objectionable.
Smoky Asian Grilled Tofu (pictured)
Chinese Style Stir Fry with Seitan
Thai Style Stir Fry
Vegetarian Sesame Hoisin "Chicken" Wings
Vietnamese Salad Rolls
Chinese Barbecue Sauce
Chinese Eight Treasures Recipe
Hoisin Dipping Sauce
Because the flavor can be overpowering, particularly if you’re new to Asian cuisine, it’s recommended that you use only a bit at a time to experiment with the flavor. Or, dilute the flavor by adding water or oil to the paste before using in a recipe.
Hoisin sauce is a great way to add an authentic Asian flavor and thickening color to a stir-fry or noodle dish.
Hoisin Sauce Recipes
Hoisin Dipping Sauce
Like this article?
Sign up to receive free vegetarian and vegan recipes, resources and tips in a weekly email newsletter. Click here.Also Known As: Chinese Barbecue Sauce


