Yum Yum Sauce Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Yum Yum Sauce is a creamy, slightly tangy, and subtly sweet sauce that is a popular accompaniment in Japanese steakhouses, especially with hibachi-style dishes. It’s perfect for dipping, drizzling, or slathering on grilled meats, seafood, and vegetables. Its versatility and delicious flavor make it a crowd-pleaser for any meal.

Ingredients

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

mayonnaise
ketchup
sugar
garlic powder
onion powder
paprika
rice vinegar
water
salt
cayenne pepper (optional for a spicy kick)

Directions

1. In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, and sugar.
2. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using).
3. Add rice vinegar and water, mixing until smooth.
4. Season with a pinch of salt to taste, and adjust the consistency with more water if needed.
5. Cover and refrigerate the sauce for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields approximately 1 cup of Yum Yum Sauce.
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Refrigeration time: 30 minutes or longer
Total time: 35 minutes or more

Variations

• Add a bit of lemon juice for extra tanginess.
• Use sriracha sauce instead of cayenne pepper for a different type of heat.
• Swap the ketchup for tomato paste for a richer tomato flavor.
• Make it lighter by using low-fat mayo or Greek yogurt.

Storage/Reheating

Store Yum Yum Sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
For longer storage, you can freeze the sauce, but it may alter the texture once thawed. To use, simply stir before serving.

FAQs

What does Yum Yum Sauce taste like?
It has a creamy, sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy flavor with a hint of garlic and onion.

Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Yes, making it ahead of time is actually recommended. It allows the flavors to meld together for an even better taste.

Is Yum Yum Sauce spicy?
It has a mild heat from the cayenne pepper, but you can adjust the spice level to your liking or omit it entirely.

Can I use this sauce on other foods?
Absolutely! Yum Yum Sauce is great on grilled chicken, shrimp, french fries, vegetables, and even as a salad dressing.

Can I make Yum Yum Sauce without mayonnaise?
You can try substituting mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter version, though it will change the flavor and texture.

Conclusion

Yum Yum Sauce is a simple, yet flavorful sauce that adds a creamy, tangy kick to any dish. Whether you’re using it for dipping or drizzling, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Try it today and elevate your meals with this delicious sauce!

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