Yum Yum Sauce Recipe

Yum Yum Sauce is a creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet condiment often served at Japanese steakhouses, particularly with hibachi dishes. Its irresistible flavor makes it the perfect dipping sauce for shrimp, chicken, vegetables, and even fries or rice.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

mayonnaisetomato pastebuttergarlic powderpaprikaonion powdersugarrice vinegarwater

directions

In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise and tomato paste until smooth.

Melt the butter and add it to the bowl, mixing thoroughly.

Add garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, and sugar. Stir well to combine.

Pour in the rice vinegar and water, then whisk until the sauce is smooth and well blended.

Cover the sauce and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld. Overnight is best.

Stir before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields about 1 cup of sauce.Preparation time: 5 minutesChilling time: 1 hourTotal time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Variations

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.

Use ketchup instead of tomato paste for a sweeter version.

Swap rice vinegar for apple cider vinegar in a pinch.

Mix in a few drops of sesame oil for a deeper umami flavor.

storage/reheating

Store Yum Yum Sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.Do not freeze, as the texture may separate.To reblend after chilling, simply stir well before serving.

FAQs

What does Yum Yum Sauce taste like?

It’s creamy, tangy, slightly sweet, and lightly spiced — perfect for pairing with grilled foods.

Is Yum Yum Sauce spicy?

Not typically, but you can make it spicy by adding cayenne or hot sauce.

Can I make it vegan?

Yes, use vegan mayo and plant-based butter alternatives.

Why refrigerate it before serving?

Chilling allows the flavors to fully develop and blend for the best taste.

Can I use low-fat mayo?

Yes, but the flavor may be slightly less rich.

Is this the same as Japanese white sauce?

Yes, Yum Yum Sauce is also known as Japanese white sauce or shrimp sauce.

Can I make a larger batch?

Absolutely, just multiply the ingredients accordingly.

What’s the best dish to serve this with?

It’s perfect with grilled shrimp, hibachi chicken, fried rice, or steamed vegetables.

Does it need to be served cold?

It’s typically served cold or at room temperature.

Why is it pink?

The tomato paste and paprika give it a light pink hue.

Conclusion

Yum Yum Sauce is a versatile and delicious addition to any meal, especially if you love Japanese hibachi-style cooking. With just a few pantry staples, you can whip up a batch at home that tastes just like the restaurant version. Creamy, flavorful, and easy to make — it’s a must-have dipping sauce for any savory dish.

Print