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Per 100g
Nutrition data source: USDA FoodData Central
Common measurement equivalents in grams
It is a powder made from ground-up li hing mui, which are salted, dried Chinese plums. It has a distinct salty, sweet, and sour flavor profile.
When kept in a dry, airtight container, it can last indefinitely, though it is best used within 1-2 years for optimal flavor.
It should be used sparingly due to its extremely high sodium content and the presence of artificial sweeteners and dyes in many commercial brands.
A mixture of citric acid, salt, and sugar can mimic the profile, or umeboshi (Japanese pickled plum) powder can be used for a similar salty-sour effect.
The traditional red color comes from food coloring (often Red 40) added during the processing of the dried plums.
Many commercial brands use aspartame or saccharin to achieve the intense sweetness without adding bulk sugar. Check the label if you are sensitive to these.
Freezing is not necessary and may introduce moisture. A cool, dry pantry is the best storage location.
Yes, the standard ingredients (plums, salt, sugar, licorice, and flavorings) are plant-based and vegan-friendly.
Ensure the container is sealed tightly after every use and avoid using a wet spoon to scoop the powder.
li hing mui powder is a versatile ingredient found in cuisines around the world. With 285 calories per 100g and 1.8 grams of protein, it's a nutritious addition to many dishes.
Explore more ingredients in the other category with complete nutrition information.
View all other →Discover 2 recipes featuring li hing mui powder with step-by-step instructions.
Browse recipes →In Hawaii, it is famously used on fresh fruit, gummy bears, popcorn, and even in shave ice syrups.
