Published May 10, 2019 Updated Sep 01, 2024
What Is Hoisin Sauce
When it comes to Chinese recipes, soy sauce and oyster sauce are two of the most used sauces. However, there are other sauces that taste great, but are less common, for example: Hoisin sauce. The complex flavor of Hoisin sauce comes from the fermented soybeans, spices, dried sweet potatoes, salt, sugar and other ingredients. It is usually used as a dipping sauce, for example: Peking duck. Hoisin sauce, or 海鲜酱 in Chinese, literally means seafood sauce. Ironically, there is no seafood in the sauce. Hoisin sauce is made of sweet potatoes, soybeans and other flavorings.
Hoisin Sauce Stir Fry
The savory, sweet, and umami tasting sauce is actually great for stir-fries, as in this simple Hoisin Chicken. Hoisin sauce brings a new dimension in taste. I like the slight sweetness that comes with the sauce, and it makes this Hoisin Chicken very appetizing, and especially great with steamed white rice. For a baked version of this dish, check out my Baked Hoisin Chicken recipe!
Hoisin Sauce Uses
Other than stir fries, Hoisin sauce is great as a dipping sauce and marinade. For examples: lettuce wraps and Peking duck. The sweet, savory and smoky taste is a perfect dipping sauce for roasted duck, chicken and pork, as well as refreshing lettuce wraps. As a marinade, the sauce lends a rich earthy note to the protein.
Cooking Tips
Anyway, for this Hoisin Chicken recipe, you want to add some vegetables. I used broccoli and carrot but baby bok choy will be a great substitute. You can also add mushrooms such as Shiitake mushroom or white button mushroom. For the chicken, white meat is the best for Chinese stir fries. Once you velvet the chicken breast with corn starch, the meat will be tender, silky smooth and soft, just like your favorite Chinese takeout restaurants!
What To Serve With Hoisin Chicken
This meal is best served with steamed rice. For a wholesome Chinese meal and easy weeknight dinner, I recommend the following recipes. I hope you enjoy this post as much as I do. If you try my recipe, please leave a comment and consider giving it a 5-star rating. For more easy and delicious recipes, explore my Recipe Index, and stay updated by subscribing to my newsletter and following me on Facebook, Pinterest, and Instagram for new updates.
Other Hoisin Recipes You Might Like
Hoisin Shrimp with Broccoli Hoisin Sriracha Chicken Chicken Lettuce Wraps Baked Chicken Lollipop
