Yum Yum Sauce: A Deliciously Easy Recipe You’ll Want to Try
Yum Yum Sauce is a creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet condiment that originated in Japanese steakhouses, often served with hibachi meals. This homemade version is just as delicious, and you can customize it to your liking with the perfect balance of ingredients. Whether you’re using it as a dip, dressing, or sauce, this recipe is a must-try for any fan of flavorful, versatile condiments.
Ingredients
- 1 cup mayonnaise or dairy-free mayo for a vegan version
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar optional
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika or regular paprika
- 1-2 teaspoons water to adjust consistency
- Optional: A few drops of sriracha or cayenne pepper for extra heat
Instructions
- Combine the Base Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, ketchup, rice vinegar, and sugar until smooth.
- Add Seasonings: Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Whisk the mixture until well combined.
- Adjust Consistency: Add 1-2 teaspoons of water, stirring each time, until the sauce reaches your preferred thickness.
- Taste and Adjust: Sample your sauce and adjust the flavor to your liking—add more sugar for sweetness, more vinegar for tang, or sriracha for heat.
- Refrigerate: For best flavor, chill the sauce in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve: Use it as a dip for shrimp, drizzle over grilled meats or vegetables, or add to your favorite rice bowls.
Notes
Dairy-Free: Use a vegan mayo for a completely dairy-free version of Yum Yum Sauce.
Spicy Option: Adjust the spiciness by adding cayenne pepper or sriracha to taste.
Storage: Store leftover Yum Yum Sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
Consistency: If the sauce thickens too much after chilling, simply stir in a little water to reach the desired consistency.