Does Hoisin Sauce Need To Be Refrigerated? Explained

Last Updated on September 15, 2024 by Shari Mason

Enjoying Asian food? I’m always on the hunt for **new tricks** to jazz up my dishes. **Hoisin sauce** brings a rich and unique flavor that’s hard to beat.

But as I’ve stocked up on this delicious condiment, I’ve wondered – does hoisin sauce need to be refrigerated? 

We’ll explore the answer to this common question and provide tips for storing hoisin sauce.

Do You Need To Refrigerate Hoisin Sauce?

Hoisin sauce [1] does not necessarily need to be refrigerated, but it is recommended to extend its shelf life. If unopened, hoisin sauce can last up to 2 years when stored in a cool, dry place. 

However, once opened, it’s best to store hoisin sauce in the fridge to prevent spoilage and maintain its quality. The fridge’s cool temperature helps slow the oxidation process, which can cause the sauce to go rancid. 

“I was always curious about, like, how does hot sauce work? Growing up, I wondered, ‘If I touched it, was it hot?”

– Lil Yachty, American Rapper

Storing hoisin sauce in an airtight container and a cool, dry place can help to prolong its freshness and maintain its delicious flavor.

Can You Freeze Hoisin Sauce?

Yes, you can freeze hoisin sauce to extend its shelf life. To freeze hoisin sauce, transfer it to a freezer-safe container and store it in the freezer for up to 6 months. 

When ready to use the sauce, thaw it in the fridge overnight. It’s important to note that freezing hoisin sauce can cause its texture to change slightly, but this won’t affect its flavor or quality. 

Once thawed, use the sauce within a few days and store any leftovers in the fridge.

How To Thaw Frozen Hoisin Sauce?

1. Remove the frozen hoisin sauce from the freezer.
2. Place the container of hoisin sauce in the fridge to thaw overnight. If you need to thaw the sauce more quickly, place it in a bowl of lukewarm water, replacing the water every 20-30 minutes until the sauce has thawed.
3. Once the hoisin sauce has thawed, please stir it to ensure it’s smooth and has no clumps.
4. Use the hoisin sauce as desired in your favorite recipes.
5. Any leftover hoisin sauce should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge and used within a few days.

“Like a well-crafted dish, the key to maintaining the flavor of hoisin sauce is in the preparation. Keep it cool, dry, and out of direct light, and you’ll savor its bold flavors for months to come – no refrigeration required.”

– Eat Pallet Restaurant & Food Advice

Signs That It Might Have Gone Bad

1. Sour or Off Smell: If hoisin sauce has gone bad, it may have a sour or off smell. This can indicate that the sauce has started to ferment or spoil.
2. Mold: If you notice any mold growing on the surface of the hoisin sauce, this is a clear sign that it has gone bad and should be discarded.
3. Discoloration: If the hoisin sauce has changed color or appears discolored in any way, this can be a sign that it has gone bad. The sauce may appear darker or have spots or streaks of discoloration.
4. Separation: If the sauce has separated and there is a layer of liquid on top, this can indicate that it has gone bad or that the emulsion [2] has broken down.
5. Changes in Texture: If the texture of the hoisin sauce has changed and it has become thicker, lumpy, or gritty, this can indicate that it has gone bad or that the quality has deteriorated.

Tips & Tricks On Storing Hoisin Sauce

1. Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Hoisin sauce should be stored in a cool, dry place away from heat and direct sunlight. Avoid storing it near the stove or other sources of heat.
2. Use Airtight Containers: Once opened, hoisin sauce should be stored in an airtight container to prevent air and moisture from getting in. This will help to preserve the flavor and texture of the sauce.
3. Label and Date Containers: It’s a good idea to label and date containers of hoisin sauce, especially if you have multiple containers or plan to freeze some for later use.
4. Refrigerate After Opening: While the hoisin sauce does not need to be refrigerated before opening, it should be stored in the fridge once opened. This will help to extend its shelf life and prevent spoilage.
5. Freeze for Long-Term Storage: If you have a large quantity of hoisin sauce you don’t plan to use within a few months, you can freeze it for long-term storage. Transfer it to a freezer-safe container and store it in the freezer for up to 6 months.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Hoisin sauce does not need to be refrigerated before opening, but it should be stored in the fridge after opening to maintain its quality and extend its shelf life. 

When stored properly in a cool, dry place away from heat and direct sunlight, hoisin sauce lasts up to two years. 

If you have a large quantity of hoisin sauce, you won’t use it within a few months. You can freeze it for long-term storage. 

References:

1. https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/256166/homemade-hoisin-sauce/
2. https://www.thespruceeats.com/what-is-an-emulsion-995655

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Shari Mason

Co-Founder & Senior Writer at Eat Pallet

Hey, I'm Shari! After more than a decade in the restaurant industry, I've decided to share my experience online with you here. Learn more about us here or you can contact me directly [email protected].

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