It is possible to make your own hoisin sauce from scratch, but to make it authentically requires black bean paste. This ingredient is essential for authenticity, but difficulty to source. The second essential ingredient that can be hard to find is Chinese 5-spice seasoning. While black bean sauce can be substituted, 5-spice is vital. Hoisin is made by blending a mixture of black bean sauce, Chinese 5-spice, brown sugar, rice wine vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and a splash of hot sauce. The process is relatively simple, and for Asian cookery fans many of the ingredients are store cupboard staples. If you can’t find black bean paste, there are options. A popular choice is smooth peanut butter, as this adds umami taste and the same thick consistency. Another option is molasses. Peanut butter is the closest match, but look for unsweetened.