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Homemade Yum Yum Sauce

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Yum Yum Sauce, often referred to as Japanese white sauce or hibachi sauce, is a beloved condiment originating from Japanese steakhouses in the United States. This creamy sauce combines mayonnaise with ketchup, rice vinegar, garlic, sugar, and paprika, creating a harmonious balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. It’s incredibly versatile—ideal for dipping shrimp, drizzling over grilled meats and vegetables, or spreading on sandwiches and wraps. The best part? It’s quick and easy to make at home, allowing you to enjoy restaurant-quality flavor in your own kitchen.​

Ingredients

1 cup mayonnaise

2 tablespoons ketchup

1 tablespoon melted butter

1 tablespoon rice vinegar

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 tablespoon sugar or honey

1/2 teaspoon paprika

1-2 tablespoons water (to achieve desired consistency)

Optional: a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few drops of hot sauce for heat

Instructions

  1. Mix all ingredients in mixing bowl except the water.

  2. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well-blended.

  3. Gradually add water to reach your preferred consistency—thicker for dipping, thinner for drizzling.

  4. Refrigerate covered for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.

Note: For optimal flavor, prepare the sauce a day in advance. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 7 days but I doubt you will have any in 7 days.

Notes

Yum Yum Sauce is incredibly versatile. Here are some delicious ways to incorporate it into your meals:

Japanese-Inspired Dishes

  • Hibachi-style Meals: Drizzle over grilled chicken, shrimp, or steak accompanied by sautéed vegetables and fried rice.
  • Fried Rice: Mix into chicken or vegetable fried rice for added flavor.
  • Noodle Bowls: Use as a topping for hibachi noodles or stir-fry.

🥪 Sandwiches & Wraps

  • Burgers: Spread on beef or veggie burgers for a creamy kick.
  • Wraps: Enhance chicken or tofu wraps with a generous layer.
  • Sliders: Pair with pulled pork or grilled chicken sliders.​

🥗 Salads & Bowls

  • Grain Bowls: Drizzle over rice or quinoa bowls topped with roasted vegetables and proteins.
  • Salads: Use as a dressing for green salads, especially those with crunchy elements like nuts or seeds.
  • Yum Yum Bowls: Combine marinated steak, sautéed vegetables, avocado, and rice, then top with the sauce.

🍤 Dipping Sauce

  • Seafood: Perfect for dipping shrimp, calamari, or crab cakes.
  • Vegetables: Serve alongside tempura or fresh veggie platters.
  • Fries: A delightful alternative to ketchup for French fries or crispy-baked sweet potato fries.​

🌮 Fusion Cuisine

  • Tacos: Add a dollop to fish or shrimp tacos for a creamy contrast.
  • Pizza: Drizzle over seafood or veggie pizzas for an extra layer of flavor.  I tried this in Mexico and was surprised how good this was on pizza! 

Feel free to experiment and find new ways to enjoy Yum Yum Sauce in your culinary creations.  Share your comments on this yummy recipe 💙

Nutrition Disclaimer: The nutritional information provided is an estimate based on standard ingredients and serving sizes. Actual values may vary depending on specific products used and portion sizes. This information is provided for convenience and should not be considered medical or dietary advice.

Nutrition

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