Is Hoisin Sauce Vegan?

Hoisin sauce is a thick, fragrant sauce that originates from Chinese and Vietnamese cooking. Fermented soybeans, garlic, vinegar, sugar, and various spices make up the sauce. These ingredients give hoisin its signature sweet, savory, and slightly tangy flavor. The name “hoisin” actually means “seafood” in Cantonese, but don’t let that mislead you—traditional hoisin sauce doesn’t contain seafood. Most versions use plant-based ingredients, though some include non-vegan items.

What is Hoisin Sauce Used For?

Hoisin sauce is incredibly versatile and can be used in numerous dishes:

• Dipping Sauce: Commonly used as a dipping sauce for Vietnamese spring rolls, dumplings, and other appetizers.
• Glaze for Roasted Meats or Tofu: It works wonderfully as a glaze for meats and plant-based proteins like tofu or tempeh, offering a rich, caramelized flavor.
• Marinades and Stir-Fries: Hoisin is a popular addition to stir-fries and marinades, providing a savory depth.
• Sandwiches and Wraps: It’s also used in banh mi sandwiches and wraps, delivering a sweet, umami-packed punch.

Traditional Ingredients in Hoisin Sauce

Although hoisin sauce is largely plant-based, some ingredients can vary. The core components include:

• Soybeans: These provide the base for the sauce, adding protein and a rich texture.
• Vinegar and sugar: These ingredients contribute to the sweet and tangy profile.
• Garlic and spices: They enhance the sauce’s depth and complexity.

Why Some Hoisin Sauces Aren’t Vegan

Despite being mostly plant-based, some hoisin sauce brands include non-vegan ingredients. The main culprits are:

• Honey: Honey is used as a sweetener in some recipes, making the sauce non-vegan.
• Animal-based Additives: Some commercial hoisin sauces might contain animal-derived additives or preservatives, although this is less common.

To ensure that your hoisin sauce is vegan, always read the label or contact the manufacturer if you have concerns about specific ingredients.

Homemade Vegan Hoisin Sauce Recipe

If you’re struggling to find vegan hoisin sauce in stores, making your own is easy and allows for complete control over the ingredients. Here’s a simple recipe inspired by Elavegan’s approach:

Ingredients:

• 4 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for a gluten-free version)
• 2 tablespoons peanut butter (or tahini for a nut-free option)
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup (or agave syrup)
• 2 teaspoons rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon of sriracha (optional, for added spice)

Instructions:

1. Mix Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, peanut butter, maple syrup, rice vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, sesame oil, and sriracha.
2. Adjust Flavor: Taste and adjust the sweetness or tang as needed.
3. Store: Keep the sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

Hoisin Sauce Replacements

If you’re looking for a vegan, gluten-free, or just an alternative option, here are several replacements for hoisin sauce:

1. Soy Sauce + Brown Sugar: This combination mimics the sweet and savory notes of hoisin. Add garlic and a bit of vinegar for a more complex flavor.
2. Tamari + Molasses (for gluten-free): Tamari is a gluten-free soy sauce, and mixing it with molasses adds sweetness and thickness. Add garlic or five-spice powder to achieve a richer flavor.
3. Barbecue Sauce: Barbecue sauce serves as a substitute, particularly for marinades or dipping sauces, despite its different flavor profile. Adding soy sauce or tamari can make it taste more like hoisin.
4. Miso Paste + Maple Syrup: Miso paste adds the umami flavor found in hoisin, while maple syrup replicates the sweetness. This option works well in stir-fries.
5. Plum Sauce: Similar in texture and sweetness, plum sauce is a suitable replacement for hoisin, particularly in dipping sauces and glazes. Combine with soy sauce or tamari for a closer match.

Is Hoisin Sauce Gluten-Free?

Hoisin sauce often contains soy sauce, which typically includes wheat, making it not always gluten-free. However, there are gluten-free versions available that use tamari or another gluten-free soy sauce alternative. Popular gluten-free hoisin sauce brands include:

• Wok Mei Gluten-Free Hoisin Sauce
• Kikkoman Gluten-Free Hoisin Sauce
• San-J Hoisin Sauce

Hoisin sauce can often be vegan, but it’s important to check the ingredients for non-vegan components like honey or animal-derived additives. Fortunately, many brands offer vegan-friendly versions, and making your own hoisin sauce at home is both simple and delicious. Whether you’re using it as a dip, marinade, or glaze, hoisin sauce can be a flavorful and versatile addition to a plant-based diet.