Lee Kum Kee is the most widely recommended hoisin sauce in the UK, with a balanced sweet, salty, and slightly spiced flavour that works for glazing, dipping, and stir-fries. Amoy and Blue Dragon are easier to find in mainstream supermarkets and suit everyday use. Check the ingredients if you want a gluten-free version, since some hoisin sauce is thickened with wheat flour.
Hoisin sauce is a thick, dark condiment used in everything from crispy duck pancakes to glazes and marinades. This guide covers what to check before you buy and how brands differ.
What to check before you buy
- Sweetness level. Hoisin sauce varies from mildly sweet to quite sugary. If you’re using it as a dip rather than in a cooked sauce, a less sweet version balances better.
- Ingredients list. Traditional hoisin is made from fermented soybean paste, garlic, vinegar, sugar, and spices. Some cheaper versions rely more heavily on sugar and thickeners, which gives a flatter flavour.
- Gluten content. Wheat is common in hoisin sauce, both from the fermented soybean base and as a thickener. Check the label if you need a gluten-free option, since a small number of brands now offer one.
- Thickness. A good hoisin sauce should be thick enough to coat food without running off. A watery bottle usually points to a weaker, less concentrated sauce.
Comparing common brands
| Brand | Style | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| Lee Kum Kee | Balanced sweet and savoury | Glazes, dips, and stir-fries |
| Amoy | Milder, widely stocked | Everyday cooking |
| Blue Dragon | Sweet, easy to find | Quick meals and marinades |
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FAQ
What is hoisin sauce used for?
It’s used as a dip for crispy duck and spring rolls, a glaze for roasted meats, and a flavour base in stir-fries and marinades.
Is hoisin sauce the same as plum sauce?
No. Plum sauce is fruitier and tarter, while hoisin is thicker, sweeter, and made from a fermented soybean base.
Can I use hoisin sauce instead of oyster sauce?
It will add sweetness and depth, though the flavour is noticeably sweeter and less savoury than oyster sauce, so start with less than the recipe calls for.
Related reading
- What is hoisin sauce, and what to use instead.
- Best Oyster Sauce Brands to Buy in the UK to compare.
- Crispy chilli beef to try it as a glaze.
