If you’ve ever dined at a Japanese steakhouse—like Benihana or your favorite local hibachi grill—you’ve likely encountered that creamy, pink-colored sauce that gets served with just about everything. It’s tangy, savory, a little sweet, and completely irresistible. That’s Yum Yum Sauce, and today, you’re going to learn how to make it right at home.
This homemade version is smooth, flavorful, and better than most bottled versions on the shelf. Whether you’re serving it with grilled meats, fried rice, shrimp, or vegetables, this sauce ties the whole plate together and keeps everyone coming back for more.
Why You’ll Love This Yum Yum Sauce
- Simple ingredients you probably already have
- More affordable and customizable than store-bought
- Perfect for dipping, drizzling, or spreading
- Can be made ahead for maximum flavor
What Is Yum Yum Sauce?
Yum Yum Sauce, also known as white sauce or shrimp sauce, is a Japanese steakhouse classic. It’s a mayonnaise-based condiment typically blended with ketchup, sugar, and spices. It has a smooth, creamy texture and a unique balance of tangy and sweet with a touch of savory depth.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make a batch of Yum Yum Sauce from scratch:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup water
- ¼ cup ketchup (or tomato paste for a deeper flavor)
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ⅛ teaspoon ground ginger
- ⅛ teaspoon onion powder
How to Make Yum Yum Sauce
1. Combine the Ingredients
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, water, ketchup (or tomato paste), sugar, garlic powder, paprika, salt, ground ginger, and onion powder until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
2. Let it Chill
Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This step is crucial—it gives the flavors time to blend and intensify.
3. Stir and Serve
After chilling, stir the sauce again and serve it with your favorite dishes. It’s especially good with grilled meats, seafood, fried rice, and vegetables.
Expert Tips and Tricks
- For a richer flavor, use Japanese Kewpie mayonnaise.
- If you prefer a thinner sauce, add an extra tablespoon or two of water.
- For a spicier version, mix in a few drops of sriracha or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Always refrigerate before serving. It makes a big difference in flavor.
Variations
- Spicy Yum Yum Sauce – Add sriracha or hot sauce.
- Smoky Yum Yum – Use smoked paprika instead of regular.
- Citrus Twist – Add a teaspoon of lemon juice or rice vinegar.
- Honey-Sweetened – Use honey in place of sugar.
- Thick Dipping Sauce – Use less water for a thicker consistency.
- Vegan Version – Use plant-based mayo.
- No Sugar Option – Swap in a low-carb sweetener.
- Tomato Paste Swap – Try tomato paste instead of ketchup for a bolder flavor.
- Garlic Lover’s Version – Double the garlic powder.
- Herb Infusion – Add finely chopped chives or parsley for a fresh twist.
What to Serve with Yum Yum Sauce
Yum Yum Sauce is incredibly versatile. Here are some ideas to get you started:
- Grilled chicken
- Hibachi-style shrimp
- Fried rice or steamed white rice
- Grilled vegetables
- French fries or sweet potato fries
- Burgers and sandwiches
- Chicken tenders or nuggets
- Roasted potatoes
- Stir-fried noodles
- Tempura or dumplings
Storage Instructions
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 7 days.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the texture can break.
- Stir Before Serving: Always stir before using if it’s been stored for a few days.
Yum Yum Sauce
Ingredients
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup water
- ¼ cup ketchup or tomato paste for a richer version
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ⅛ teaspoon ground ginger
- ⅛ teaspoon onion powder
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, water, ketchup (or tomato paste), sugar, garlic powder, paprika, salt, ground ginger, and onion powder until smooth.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to develop.
- Stir well before serving. Use as a dip, drizzle, or spread with your favorite dishes.
