Ingredients
2
tbsp rice vinegar (not seasoned)
1
tbsp minced peeled fresh ginger
1/8
tsp Chinese five-spice powder
Directions
1.
Stir together all ingredients except sugar in a bowl.
2.
Cook sugar in a dry heavy saucepan over moderate heat, undisturbed, until it begins to melt. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally with a fork, until sugar is melted into a deep golden caramel. Tilt pan and carefully pour in hoisin mixture (caramel will harden and steam vigorously). Cook over moderately low heat, stirring, until caramel is dissolved and sauce is thickened, 6 to 8 minutes. Cool to room temperature. Serve with shrimp, swordfish, pork, or chicken.
3.
* Our two favorite brands are Koon Chun and Lee Kum Kee, both from Hong Kong. We found them in New York\'s Chinatown, but they\'re also available by mail order from Uwajimaya (800-889-1928).