XO sauce missing from the pantry? We’ve been there. We’ve got quick substitutes ready. They’re simple and effective.
We’ve tried these in our favorite dishes. They work like a charm. We’ve found them in local stores.
These substitutes save time and effort. They’re easy to use. We’ve tested them in various recipes.
Our list includes homemade options. They’re practical and tasty. We’ve shared them with friends.
These alternatives bring flavor to the table. They’re reliable and accessible. We’ve had great results every time.
5 Quick Substitutes for XO Sauce
Here are five quick substitutes for XO sauce that you can use in a pinch:
1 – Homemade XO Sauce
Homemade XO sauce is an umami-packed condiment from Hong Kong. We’ve tried making it with dried shrimp, scallops, ham, and loads of spice. The result is always savory and satisfying.
It’s great on stir-fries, noodles, or even veggies. We’ve seen how it transforms everyday dishes into something special. Plus, making it yourself isn’t as tough as it seems.
The base ingredients include seafood, Jinhua ham, garlic, and chili. Cook them low and slow for rich flavors. We’ve even tweaked the heat level for different tastes.
Homemade XO sauce keeps well in the fridge. It’s practical and lasts a good while. We’ve loved sharing jars with friends, and they never last long around here. We’ve enjoyed the way it boosts flavors in nearly any recipe.
2 – Chili Garlic Sauce
For those who love a good kick of heat, chili garlic sauce is an excellent substitute for XO sauce. It’s made with red chilies and garlic, giving it a similar flavor profile to XO sauce. It’s also readily available in most grocery stores or Asian markets.
Use chili garlic sauce at a 1:1 ratio in your recipe, adding more if you prefer a spicier taste. This substitute works well in stir-fries, noodle dishes, and even as a dipping sauce.
For more ideas, check out this guide on chili garlic sauce substitutes. It’s packed with useful tips.
3 – Nam Prik Pao (Thai chili paste)
In terms of flavor, this substitute may be the closest to XO sauce. Nam prik pao is a Thai chili paste made with chilies, shrimp paste, and other aromatics. Its umami-rich taste makes it a great alternative for XO sauce in dishes like stir-fries and noodles.
Use at a 1:1 ratio or adjust to your liking. Nam prik pao can also add depth of flavor to soups and stews.
You can also check out our guide on nam prik pao substitutes for more tips and recipe ideas.
4 – Hoisin Sauce + Chili
The Hoisin sauce is our go-to XO sauce substitute. We like its rich, tangy flavor. It’s thick and versatile.
We use it in stir-fries and glazes. Hoisin sauce adds a sweet, savory taste. It’s easy to find in stores.
We substitute it in a 1:1 ratio. It’s flavorful and simple to use. We keep it in our pantry.
It’s a reliable alternative. We notice it works in many recipes. Hoisin sauce is a staple for us.
It’s sweet and savory. We enjoy its versatility. It’s a great choice for cooking.
We find it enhances dishes. For more ideas, check out this guide on Hoisin sauce substitutes. It’s packed with useful tips.
5 – Chili Crisp
Last but not least, chili crisp is an excellent substitute for XO sauce if you’re looking for a similar level of heat and crunch.
It’s made with crispy fried chilies, oil, and often garlic or other aromatics. It adds a spicy kick and texture to dishes.
Use at a 1:1 ratio or adjust to your liking. Chili crisp works well in stir-fries, noodle dishes, and as a topping for rice bowls or noodle soups.
Andrew Gray is a seasoned food writer and blogger with a wealth of experience in the restaurant and catering industries. With a passion for all things delicious, Andrew has honed his culinary expertise through his work as a personal chef and caterer.
His love for food led him to venture into food writing, where he has contributed to various online publications, sharing his knowledge and insights on the culinary world. As the proud owner of CooksCrafter.com, Andrew covers a wide range of topics, including recipes, restaurant reviews, product recommendations, and culinary tips.
Through his website, he aims to inspire and educate fellow food enthusiasts, offering a comprehensive resource for all things food-related.