Best Xo Sauce Substitutes
What Can I Use Instead of Xo Sauce in a Recipe?
Use the same amount as the original. Mix 1 tsp fish sauce with 1 tsp chili oil and a splash (¼ tsp) sesame oil. Captures umami and heat but lacks XO's complexity and dried scallop sweetness.
Ran out of Xo Sauce mid-recipe? Don't panic — you have options. This guide covers 2 tested Xo Sauce substitutes that actually work in cooking, complete with exact ratios so you don't have to guess. Whether you need to save money at the store, there's a swap here for you. The top pick is Fish Sauce with Chili Oil and Sesame Oil — it's the closest match for most recipes. Mix 1 tsp fish sauce with 1 tsp chili oil and a splash (¼ tsp) sesame oil. Captures umami and heat but lacks XO's complexity and dried scallop sweetness.
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Get ratios for Xo Sauce →All Xo Sauce Substitutes (2 options)
Mix 1 tsp fish sauce with 1 tsp chili oil and a splash (¼ tsp) sesame oil. Captures umami and heat but lacks XO's complexity and dried scallop sweetness.
Mix 1 tsp sriracha with 0.5 tsp soy sauce and 0.25 tsp sesame oil. Easier to find but less intense; works as a quick seasoning rather than finishing sauce.
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Tips for Substituting Xo Sauce
For most recipes, Fish Sauce with Chili Oil and Sesame Oil is the best starting point. Mix 1 tsp fish sauce with 1 tsp chili oil and a splash (¼ tsp) sesame oil. Captures umami and heat but lacks XO's complexity and dried scallop sweetness. Watching your grocery budget? Sriracha with Soy Sauce and Sesame Oil is the most wallet-friendly swap and does a solid job in most uses. If you're unsure which Xo Sauce substitute to use, think about why the original is in the recipe: flavor, texture, moisture, or binding? Choose the substitute that best matches that function.
Common Questions About Xo Sauce Substitutes
The best substitute for Xo Sauce is Fish Sauce with Chili Oil and Sesame Oil. Use the same amount. Mix 1 tsp fish sauce with 1 tsp chili oil and a splash (¼ tsp) sesame oil. Captures umami and heat but lacks XO's complexity and dried scallop sweetness.
This guide lists 2 Xo Sauce alternatives. The best one depends on your recipe, dietary needs, and what you have on hand — check the substitution cards above for details on each.
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