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XO sauce is a more premium item than most Chinese condiments, so it is stocked less widely and worth checking for before a special trip.
Which aisle is XO sauce in?
XO sauce is in the world food aisle of larger UK supermarkets, in the Chinese section with the other premium sauces. Smaller branches and convenience stores rarely stock it at all.
Where to look, supermarket by supermarket
- World food aisle, Chinese section. Next to oyster sauce and black bean sauce.
- A specialist or larger format store. Since it is a pricier item, it is more likely to be stocked in bigger branches than smaller ones.
If a smaller branch does not carry it, a bigger store nearby is the next step before ordering online.
Where XO sauce is in Sainsbury’s
Sainsbury’s larger stores stock XO sauce in the world food aisle with the premium Chinese sauces. Local and convenience branches typically do not carry it.
How to find the exact aisle in your store
Check the supermarket app before travelling, since this is one of the items most likely to be missing from a smaller branch.
XO sauce vs chilli oil vs black bean sauce
| Sauce | Made from | Use it for |
|---|---|---|
| XO sauce | Dried seafood, chilli, garlic | Stirred through rice, noodles, greens |
| Chilli oil | Chilli infused oil | Heat and colour, drizzled on |
| Black bean sauce | Fermented black beans | Stir fries with meat or seafood |
What to ask a member of staff
Say XO sauce and mention it is a premium Chinese seafood sauce, since it is less well known than soy or oyster sauce.
Asian supermarkets
A Chinese grocer is the most reliable place to find XO sauce, often with more brands than any supermarket carries.
Buying XO sauce online
Given how patchy in store stock is, buying online is often the most reliable route, and it keeps well once it arrives.
Storing it
Keep the jar in the fridge once opened. It is oil based and salty, so it keeps for a good while.
Frequently asked questions
Why is XO sauce more expensive than other sauces?
It is made with dried scallops and dried shrimp, both pricier ingredients, which is why it costs more than a standard soy or oyster sauce.
Is XO sauce spicy?
Mildly to moderately, depending on the brand. It is more savoury and seafood forward than straightforwardly hot.
Do all supermarkets sell XO sauce?
No, it is one of the less consistently stocked Chinese sauces, so a larger branch or a Chinese grocer is the safer bet.
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- XO sauce. A jar for rice, noodles and greens.
