It’s just a quick stir of a few basic ingredients I already have on hand, then I’m all ready for unlimited dipping and drizzling. It’s creamy, tangy, with just a hint of sweetness. The perfect blend to go alongside so many different things. Creamy, pink sauces come in so many varieties. From my spicy Sriracha Mayo, to the mildly briny Utah Fry Sauce, to the bold and complex Louisiana Remoulade, we’ve made our share in the Gypsy Plate kitchen. Yum yum sauce is another such condiment, and is becoming one of the most popular all across the country.
What is Yum Yum Sauce?
Yum yum sauce is a simple sauce of mayo and a few other basic ingredients. Often called Japanese Steakhouse Sauce, it was invented in the 1980’s, and is now a staple in hibachi restaurants. Bottled varieties can be found in the international aisle of most supermarkets. Despite that, the sauce is not Japanese at all. It’s origins trace to Albany, Georgia, where it was created by restauranteur Terry Ho. It is also called seafood sauce, white sauce, and Japanese steak sauce. However, it goes so well with hibachi style meats and vegetables, it has become the condiment that Americans associate with Japanese steakhouses.
Ingredients Needed
Mayonnaise – I use Dukes, but any of your favorite good quality mayo will do. Tomato Paste – It lends to the pink color. Melted butter – It makes the sauce extra special. Rice vinegar – For a little tang. Honey – For a hint of sweetness. Paprika – Regular, not smoked. Garlic Powder – Just a hint. Water – To make the sauce less thick.
Yum Yum Sauce Recipe Notes and Tips
How to Use It
Yum yum sauce is the perfect accompaniment for Hibachi Chicken and vegetables, as well as shrimp. It’s also great as a dip for so many of my favorite finger foods.
Fries Latkes Sweet Potato Fries Tostones Sauerkraut Balls Onion Rings Chicken Nuggets Sushi
Or, try slathering it on sandwiches, burgers or wraps. Get creative! Don’t just think of it as a Japanese steakhouse sauce… think of it as an anything sauce! Give your taste buds a treat with this quick and easy Yum Yum Sauce recipe. You don’t need to make a trip all the way to the Japanese steakhouse whenever you get that desire to take a bite and say “YUM YUM”! I have plenty more amazing dishes from all around the world coming your way. If you haven’t already, be sure to subscribe to our mailing list so you’re always in the loop. Until next time…
Yum Yum Sauce, on our Gypsy Plate… enjoy!
Try these other easy and delicious condiments!Teriyaki SauceCilantro Mint ChutneyHollandaise SaucePeruvian Green SauceCaesar DressingChipotle MayoGarlic AioliTzatzikiChili Oil
title: “Yum Yum Sauce” ShowToc: true date: “2024-10-27” author: “Maureen Chandler”
Yum Yum Sauce, also known as Japanese white sauce, may not have deep roots in traditional Japanese cuisine, but it has become a beloved staple in Japanese restaurants across the United States. The origins of this pale pink sauce are a bit of a mystery, but this sweet, tangy, and slightly smoky sauce has become a must-have for hibachi meals, often served alongside shrimp, steak, and fried rice. We like to drizzle it over rice bowls at home. What makes this the best Yum Yum Sauce recipe ever is just how effortlessly you can whip it up right at home! With just a few simple ingredients, you can recreate that famous Japanese steakhouse sauce for a fraction of the cost. No need to run to the store or wait for your next hibachi dinner—this versatile and delicious sauce can be made in minutes. Want more flavor-packed homemade condiments? Dive into my recipes for Outback Blooming Onion Sauce, Kansas City BBQ Sauce, Homemade Aioli, Carolina Mustard Based BBQ Sauce, and Homemade Remoulade!
Why We Love This Recipe
It’s quick and easy! This Yum Yum Sauce comes together in just a few minutes, and you don’t need any advanced cooking techniques to make it. It’s customizable! Whether you like it spicier or sweeter, you can adjust the ingredients to suit your taste perfectly. It pairs with everything! From hibachi steak to onion rings, this tangy sauce is the ultimate companion for all your favorite dishes.
What You’ll Need
Scroll down to the recipe card below this post for ingredient quantities and full instructions.
Kewpie Mayonnaise – The creamy Japanese mayo is the base that gives this sauce its signature rich flavor. You can substitute with regular mayo if needed, but Kewpie mayo adds extra umami. Water – Helps thin out the sauce to your desired consistency, making it smooth and pourable. Melted Butter – Adds a hint of richness and depth to the sauce. Ketchup – Gives the sauce that perfect hint of sweetness and color. Rice Wine Vinegar – Adds a tangy touch to balance the creaminess. You can substitute it with apple cider vinegar or lemon juice for a similar effect. Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the sauce to balance the savory elements. Garlic Powder – Brings in a subtle garlic flavor without overpowering the other ingredients. Onion Powder – Complements the garlic, adding depth to the overall flavor profile. Smoked Paprika – Adds a hint of smokiness and a beautiful color. Kosher Salt – Enhances all the flavors in the sauce. Cayenne Pepper – Just a pinch brings the perfect level of heat to the sauce.
How to Make Yum Yum Sauce
Tips for Success
Always let the sauce chill for at least an hour before serving. This lets all the flavors combine for that perfect taste. If your sauce is too thick, add a tiny splash of water to thin it out. Go slow—it’s easier to add more water than to fix a runny sauce. Taste as you go! If you prefer it a little sweeter or spicier, don’t be shy about adjusting the sugar or cayenne to match your personal taste. Make sure to use a good-quality mayonnaise like Kewpie for the best flavor. It really makes a difference!
Tasty Recipes That Beg for Yum Yum Sauce
Crispy Baked Sweet Potato Fries Yakitori Chicken Recipe Salmon Cakes Grilled Chicken Kabobs Fried Catfish Zucchini Fries
It also works wonders with seafood, like Easy Grilled Shrimp Skewers, Salmon Cakes, or Maryland Crab Cakes. For something fun, serve it alongside crispy Homemade French Fries or Crispy Homemade Onion Rings—an unbeatable combo!
