Are you a fan of hoisin sauce?
This popular sauce is a staple in Cantonese and Vietnamese cuisine, and is also used in many American dishes.
But how long does it actually last?
Whether you’re using store-bought or homemade hoisin sauce, it’s important to know how to properly store it and when to toss it out.
In this article, we’ll explore the shelf life of hoisin sauce, how to tell if it’s gone bad, and some tips for keeping it fresh.
So, let’s dive in and find out how long your favorite hoisin sauce can keep!
How Long Does Hoisin Sauce Keep?
The shelf life of hoisin sauce depends on a few factors, including whether it’s store-bought or homemade, and how it’s stored.
An unopened jar of hoisin sauce can last up to three years if stored correctly at room temperature. However, once opened, it needs to be refrigerated to maintain its freshness. An opened jar of hoisin sauce that has been continuously refrigerated can last up to 18 months.
It’s important to note that the quality of the sauce may deteriorate over time, even if it hasn’t gone bad. A change in flavor or color is usually the first indication that the sauce is losing its freshness.
What Is Hoisin Sauce?
Hoisin sauce is a popular sauce used in Cantonese and Vietnamese cuisine, but it has also gained popularity among American chefs in recent years. It is primarily made up of fermented soybean paste, along with water, sugar, sesame seeds, vinegar, salt, garlic, and sometimes starches and other spices.
Homemade hoisin sauce will last for about 7-10 days when stored in the fridge and up to 3 months in the freezer. Store-bought hoisin sauce that is opened should be refrigerated to maintain its freshness and can last for up to 18 months if stored properly. However, it’s important to keep the lid of the jar closed while refrigerating to prevent the sauce from drying out and losing its flavor.
Signs Of Spoiled Hoisin Sauce
While hoisin sauce can last for a significant amount of time, it’s essential to know the signs of spoiled hoisin sauce to avoid consuming a potentially harmful product.
The first indication that hoisin sauce has gone bad is a change in smell. If the sauce has an off odor, it’s best to discard it immediately. Additionally, if you notice any mold growth on the surface of the sauce, it’s no longer safe to consume.
Another sign of spoiled hoisin sauce is a change in texture or consistency. If the sauce has become thick or clumpy, it’s best to err on the side of caution and discard it. The same goes for any separation or curdling of the sauce.
Lastly, if you notice a change in taste or color, it’s best to discard the sauce. Hoisin sauce should have a sweet and savory flavor with a dark brown color. If the taste is bitter or sour, or if the color has changed significantly, it’s no longer safe to consume.
Proper Storage Of Hoisin Sauce
Proper storage of hoisin sauce is crucial to ensure that it stays fresh and safe for consumption. Once opened, the jar of hoisin sauce should be tightly covered and stored in the refrigerator at all times. Leaving the jar open in the refrigerator can cause the sauce to dry out and lose its flavor.
It’s important to check the expiration date of the hoisin sauce before purchasing it. Store-bought hoisin sauce usually has a “Best By,” “Best if Used By,” Best Before, or “Best When Used By” date stamped on it. This date is not a safety date but rather an estimate of how long the hoisin sauce will remain at peak quality.
If you notice any signs of spoilage such as an off odor, flavor or appearance, or mold, discard the hoisin sauce immediately. Bacteria can easily form in warm conditions, so it’s best to refrigerate the sauce as soon as possible after opening.
Homemade hoisin sauce can last up to 7-10 days in the fridge and up to 3 months in the freezer. It’s important to store it in an airtight container and label it with the date it was made.
Tips For Keeping Hoisin Sauce Fresh
To ensure that your hoisin sauce stays fresh for as long as possible, follow these tips:
1. Store it properly: Once opened, hoisin sauce should be stored in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness. Make sure to keep the lid tightly closed to prevent air from getting in and drying out the sauce.
2. Check for spoilage: Before using hoisin sauce, always check for signs of spoilage such as an off odor, flavor, or appearance, or the presence of mold. If you notice any of these signs, discard the sauce immediately.
3. Use it within a reasonable time frame: While an opened jar of hoisin sauce can last up to 18 months when refrigerated, it’s best to use it within a few months for optimal freshness and flavor.
4. Consider the type of hoisin sauce: Store-bought hoisin sauce may have preservatives that extend its shelf life, while homemade hoisin sauce may have a shorter shelf life. Be aware of the type of hoisin sauce you’re using and adjust your storage and usage accordingly.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your hoisin sauce stays fresh and flavorful for as long as possible.
Making Homemade Hoisin Sauce
Making homemade hoisin sauce is a great way to ensure that you know exactly what ingredients are going into your sauce. The ingredients for homemade hoisin sauce typically include fermented soybean paste, water, sugar, sesame seeds, vinegar, salt, garlic, and sometimes starches and other spices.
To make homemade hoisin sauce, simply place all the ingredients in a blender or food processor and puree until smooth. If you prefer a slightly chunkier sauce, use a food processor. However, if you want a very smooth sauce, use a blender.
It’s important to note that homemade hoisin sauce will last for about 7-10 days in the fridge and up to 3 months in the freezer. To store it in the fridge, use an airtight glass jar. If you’re making a large batch and don’t plan on using it often, consider freezing the rest in an ice tray.
When making homemade hoisin sauce, it’s important to use soybean paste instead of miso for the best flavor. Additionally, there is no peanut butter used in authentic hoisin sauce.
