One taste, and you will be a Hoisin enthusiast for life. Ready to try my absolutely delicious and easy-peasy Vietnamese recipe?

Exploring the World of Hoisin Sauce

Thanks to one of my dearest friend, who is married to a Vietnamese man, I embarked on a culinary adventure that forever altered my taste buds. The catalyst for this special journey? Hoisin sauce. And while you may interject, “isn’t Hoisin sauce Chinese, specifically Cantonese?”: you would be correct. However, it is frequently used in Vietnamese cuisine, adding an intriguing twist to its origins. The key ingredients that form the heart of Hoisin sauce include fennel, soya beans, chili pepper, and garlic.. Allow me to assure you that, after this encounter, you will find a permanent spot for a jar of this delectable Hoisin sauce in your kitchen.

A Culinary Affair

For me, the introduction to Hoisin sauce was a game-changer, and it all began with a homemade Vietnamese feast hosted by my dear friend. The delightful aroma of simmering Hoisin chicken filled the room, arousing my curiosity. The warm, inviting atmosphere and the excitement in the air set the stage for a memorable culinary experience.

Just picture tender pieces of chicken enveloped in a luscious, velvety Hoisin sauce. It is a dish that truly marries sweet and savoury in perfect harmony. The unmistakable fragrance of fennel and garlic combines with the umami-rich soya beans and a hint of chili pepper heat!

Hoisin Chicken and Pouilly-sur-Loire

Now, let us talk about pairing this exquisite Hoisin chicken. My personal recommendation is a Pouilly-sur-Loire, a delightful white wine from the Loire Valley.

In the glass, Pouilly-sur-Loire is a light-bodied wine. It stands apart from the more acidic Loire whites. This is an everyday wine, uncomplicated and refreshing, designed for those who seek simple pleasures in every sip…

Pouilly-sur-Loire’s Aromas

The charm of Pouilly-sur-Loire does not end with its appearance. It presents as well a complex bouquet : green apple notes intermingle with hints of grass, minerality, zesty lime, and a subtle wisp of smoke!

Soil Stories

The vineyards here are rooted in four different soil types, each contributing to the wine’s unique character. From Villiers limestone, known as “caillottes,” dating back to the Oxfordian geological period, to marls with tiny oysters from the Kimméridgien geological era, aptly named “Terres blanches,” Pouilly-sur-Loire is a blend of ancient soils that tell a story in every sip.

From Romans to Rails

The winemaking tradition in Pouilly-sur-Loire is deeply entrenched in history, dating back to the Gallo-Roman era when vines thrived alongside the Roman road connecting Genabum (predecessor of Orléans) to Noviodunum, known today as Nevers. Fast forward to the 18th century, and the region’s wine was a sought-after treasure, with over 500 barges ferrying it northwards to the markets of Paris. These wines showcased a broader range of grape varieties than what graces the vineyards today.

The arrival of the railway in Pouilly-sur-Loire marked a turning point in the region’s winemaking history. It opened new doors to the Parisian markets and the vignerons of Pouilly-sur-Loire recognized the potential of selling Chasselas grapes.

So, do not hesitate to explore this delicious Hoisin chicken, without forgetting to pour yourself a glass of Pouilly-sur-Loire to complete the experience….