This hoisin sauce recipe is easy to make and even easier to enjoy in your own kitchen.
The first time I saw this "It’s All Good: Delicious, Easy Recipes That Will Make You Look Good and Feel Great" by Gwyneth Paltrow, I was surprised at the cover photo. I guess I should say pleasantly surprised.
Instead of the glammed up, perfectly coiffed Oscar-winning actress, it shows Paltrow as she probably sees herself first thing in the morning – her hair and face naturally glowing with little to no styling or product.
Most photos of Gwyneth in her book are like this, and I think it compliments the natural, healthy focus of her recipes. It’s beautiful.
Gwyneth and her co-author Julia Turshen serve up a refreshing variety of recipes that not only look and taste great, but make you feel great as well. Speaking of refreshing, I tried the Cucumber, Basil, Lime Juice recipe (in my blender) and was surprised how much I liked it. I don’t usually care for green smoothies, but the basil intrigued me.
I really like Gwyneth’s nutritional point of view. Her recipes include clean, organic meats, lots of nutrient-dense vegetables, and, with a couple of exceptions, these are all gluten free recipes! There’s also a section in the back for homemade pantry staples (which I love making).
I gave up using store-bought hoisin sauce a while ago because it’s basically a jar of corn syrup, and was tickled to see a more naturally-sweetened version in her book! It’s right across the page from a homemade sriracha sauce. Oh yes, she did.
I whipped up this hoisin sauce recipe (super fast and easy, below), and used it in her Chinese Chicken Salad recipe. Awesome dressing! Our whole family devoured this.
Can I say again how much I loved the photography in this book? There are a lot of photos of Gwyneth cooking with her children and scenes at the beach which make me melt into a puddle.
That sea bass is probably my favorite photo in the book, though. It looks rather punk rock, don’t you think? I also liked the look of her Candy Bar recipe and tried those out, too.
Those came together in about 10 minutes. Probably less than that. The only reason why they’re not completely eaten is because they’re hidden in the fridge, and I forget until I open the door to grab something. And steal a nibble.
This book has quickly become one of the favorites in my collection, and I know I’ll be turning to it again and again. It truly is "all good!"
Just in time for Mother’s Day, we’d like to give one lucky Food Fanatic reader this fabulous cookbook from People’s Most Beautiful Woman, Gwyneth Paltrow. Make sure you enter the giveaway by May 18th!
This contest is over. Congratulations to our winner, Elizabeth M!
Planning a dinner party and need some inspiration?
How about looking for a new slow cooker dinner idea?
We’ve got you covered in our ever-growing Facebook group! If you’re not a member yet, why not?!
We’re chatting cooking techniques, dessert ideas, and everything in between. If you’re already a member, invite your friends to join us too!
Hoisin Sauce Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon Grapeseed Oil
- 1 clove Garlic minced
- 1/2 teaspoon Chinese Five-Spice Powder
- 1/2 cup Red Miso Paste
- 1/2 cup Pure Maple Syrup
- 2 tablespoons Brown Rice Vinegar
Instructions
- In a small saucepan, bring the oil to medium heat.
- Add the garlic and five-spice powder, and heat until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Add the miso paste, syrup, and vinegar; whisk to combine thoroughly.
- Bring to a boil and cook, whisking constantly, for 3-4 minutes.
- The mixture should be slightly thickened.
- Let the sauce cool before using.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for several days.
Notes
- You can also use canola, safflower or any neutral oil in lieu of grapeseed.
- You can also use honey in lieu of syrup