Yum Yum Sauce
Craving that irresistible sauce from your favorite hibachi restaurant? You can ditch the takeout menus and whip up your own delectable yum yum sauce at home in minutes! This versatile condiment is a flavor explosion, perfect for dipping everything from shrimp and veggies to chicken and fries.
Making yum yum sauce is surprisingly simple. It all starts with a base of mayonnaise, brightened with a touch of sweetness from sugar and a hint of tang from vinegar or ketchup (optional). Tomato paste adds a subtle richness, while paprika and garlic powder deliver a warm, savory depth.
This recipe offers a basic framework, but feel free to customize it to your taste buds! Want it spicier? Add a dash of sriracha. Craving a creamier texture? Use less water. The beauty of yum yum sauce lies in its adaptability.
So ditch the store-bought bottles and impress your family and friends with this restaurant-quality sauce made fresh in your own kitchen.
Questions I often get asked about this recipe:
Can I use something other than mayonnaise?
Yes, for a vegan option, you could use vegan mayonnaise or a cashew-based cream.
I don’t have sriracha, what can I use instead?
For a similar spice level, you could use a pinch of red pepper flakes or a few drops of your favorite hot sauce.
What kind of vinegar is best?
Rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar are common choices, but white vinegar would also work in a pinch.
How can I make it sweeter?
Add a little more sugar or a drizzle of honey.
How can I make it tangier?
Increase the amount of vinegar or add a squeeze of lemon juice.
What else can I add for more flavor?
Chopped fresh herbs like chives or parsley, a squeeze of Dijon mustard, or a pinch of smoked paprika would all be delicious additions.
What can I use yum yum sauce for besides dipping?
This sauce is a great addition to sandwiches, wraps, burgers, or even as a marinade for chicken or fish.
What you need to make Yum Yum Sauce:
1 ¼ cups mayonnaise
¼ cup water (optional, for thinning)
1 tablespoon melted butter
1 teaspoon tomato paste (or sriracha for a spicier version)
1 teaspoon white sugar, or more to taste
½ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon paprika
Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar) (optional)
Ketchup (optional, for a sweeter and tangier flavor)
How to make it:
Whisk together the mayonnaise, water (if using), melted butter, tomato paste (or sriracha), sugar, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using) in a bowl until smooth.
If you prefer a sweeter or tangier sauce, add a tablespoon of rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar and/or ketchup to taste.
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.
Taste and adjust seasonings as desired.
Tips:
You can use a food processor or blender to make the sauce even smoother.
For a richer flavor, use Japanese mayonnaise.
Feel free to adjust the amount of spices to your preference.
This sauce will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Latest Reviews:
This recipe is a lifesaver! My family devours everything with yum yum sauce, and now I can make it myself. It’s so easy to adjust the spice level for everyone’s taste. Goodbye expensive store-bought bottles, hello delicious homemade goodness! Toby E.
I was skeptical about making my own yum yum sauce, but this recipe is fantastic! It tastes just like the kind from my favorite hibachi place. The option to add sriracha was a nice touch, and I loved how creamy it got with less water. Definitely a keeper! Jen H.
Wow! This yum yum sauce is the real deal. It’s so flavorful and versatile. I used it for dipping shrimp and veggies, and even tossed some leftover chicken in it for a quick and delicious lunch. Thanks for sharing such a simple and satisfying recipe! Joanne D.
Printable Recipe:
Yum Yum Sauce
Yum yum sauce is a delicious and versatile condiment that's perfect for dipping or drizzling over your favorite dishes. Here's a recipe that's easy to follow and allows for customization:
Ingredients
- 1 ¼ cups mayonnaise
- ¼ cup water (optional, for thinning)
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- 1 teaspoon tomato paste (or sriracha for a spicier version)
- 1 teaspoon white sugar, or more to taste
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar) (optional)
- Ketchup (optional, for a sweeter and tangier flavor)
Instructions
- Whisk together the mayonnaise, water (if using), melted butter, tomato paste (or sriracha), sugar, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using) in a bowl until smooth.
- If you prefer a sweeter or tangier sauce, add a tablespoon of rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar and/or ketchup to taste.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as desired.
If you enjoyed this recipe, please share it on your social media! I would love for more people to try this delicious and easy-to-make recipe. If you have any questions or feedback, please feel free to leave a comment below. I would love to hear from you! Shhh… Join our secret foodie group on Facebook
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