Introduction
Yum Yum Sauce is a classic hibachi-style condiment, perfect as a dip, sauce, or drizzle for grilled meats, seafood, vegetables, or rice bowls. This creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet sauce delivers a delightful, umami-packed flavor in every spoonful. Presented in a white ceramic bowl, garnished with a sprinkle of paprika or chopped chives, this Yum Yum Sauce offers a vibrant, inviting aesthetic that elevates any table. This recipe provides a traditional version adaptable for dietary preferences, ideal for home cooks seeking a quick, crowd-pleasing condiment that brings Japanese-inspired charm to any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Yum Yum Sauce:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp melted butter
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1–2 tbsp water (to adjust consistency)
- 1/4 tsp salt
For Serving:
- Optional: Paprika, chopped chives
- Suggested Accompaniments: Grilled shrimp, steak, fried rice, roasted vegetables
- Suggested Pairings: Iced tea, sparkling water
- Suggested Aesthetic: Serve in a white ceramic bowl
- Suggested Equipment: Mixing bowl, whisk, measuring cups/spoons, airtight container
Step-by-Step Process
- Mix Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, melted butter, rice vinegar, sugar, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, and salt. Add 1 tbsp water and whisk until smooth. Taste and adjust with additional sugar, vinegar, or water for a balanced flavor and desired consistency.
- Chill: Transfer the sauce to a white ceramic bowl or an airtight container. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Serve: Stir the sauce before serving. Transfer to a white ceramic bowl and garnish with a sprinkle of paprika or chopped chives. Serve chilled with grilled shrimp, steak, fried rice, roasted vegetables, iced tea, or sparkling water.
Tips for Better Yum Yum Sauce
- Use high-quality mayonnaise for a creamy, rich base; adjust water for desired thickness.
- Taste the sauce before chilling to balance tangy, sweet, and savory flavors; adjust with sugar or vinegar.
- Melt butter and cool slightly before mixing to ensure smooth incorporation.
- Chill for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavor; overnight is even better.
- Use a white ceramic bowl for a vibrant presentation, highlighting the creamy orange hue and colorful garnishes.
- Make ahead: Prepare and refrigerate up to 5 days in advance; stir before serving.
- For a thinner sauce, add an extra 1 tbsp water; for a thicker dip, reduce water.
- Enhance aesthetic: Present in a white ceramic bowl with paprika or chives for a bold, inviting look.
Variations and Customization
- Vegan Yum Yum Sauce: Use vegan mayonnaise and replace butter with vegan margarine or olive oil.
- Gluten-Free Yum Yum Sauce: Naturally gluten-free; ensure all ingredients (e.g., ketchup) are certified gluten-free.
- Low-Sodium Yum Yum Sauce: Omit salt and use low-sodium ketchup.
- Spicy Yum Yum Sauce: Add 1 tsp sriracha or 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper to the mixture.
- Garlic Yum Yum Sauce: Increase garlic powder to 1 1/2 tsp or add 1 minced fresh garlic clove.
- Sweet Yum Yum Sauce: Increase sugar to 2 tsp for a sweeter profile.
- Smoky Yum Yum Sauce: Use smoked paprika instead of regular paprika for a smoky flavor.
- Herb-Infused Yum Yum Sauce: Add 1 tsp chopped fresh parsley or dill for a herbaceous twist.
Storage and Serving Tips
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days; stir well before serving.
- Do not freeze, as the texture may separate; prepare fresh for best quality.
- Serve chilled for the best flavor and creamy consistency.
- Use as a dip for seafood or vegetables, a drizzle for rice bowls, or a spread for sandwiches.
- Pair with grilled meats or iced tea to complement the tangy, sweet flavor.
- Presented in a white ceramic bowl with vibrant garnishes for a bold, inviting charm.
Nutritional Information
Based on 8 servings (2 tbsp each):
- Calories: 110 kcal
- Total Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 2g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 0g
- Vitamin A: 2% Daily Value
- Vitamin C: 1% Daily Value
- Calcium: 0% Daily Value
- Iron: 1% Daily Value
Note: Values vary by mayonnaise and ketchup brands. Moderate in sodium; try the low-sodium variation. Pair with vegetables for balance.
Conclusion
This Yum Yum Sauce recipe offers a creamy, tangy condiment perfect for any occasion. It transforms simple ingredients into a hibachi-style classic. Its quick preparation and vibrant presentation make it a favorite. The sweet-savory flavor enhances every use. It’s sure to be a cherished recipe, loved for its versatile, crowd-pleasing appeal.
Yum Yum Sauce Recipe: Creamy and Tangy
Ingredients
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp melted butter
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp onion powder
- 1 –2 tbsp water
- ¼ tsp salt
- Optional: Paprika chives
- Suggested Pairings: Grilled shrimp iced tea
Instructions
- Whisk mayonnaise, ketchup, butter, vinegar, sugar, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and 1 tbsp water. Taste and adjust the seasoning.
- Chill for 30+ minutes.
- Serve in a white ceramic bowl with paprika, chives, shrimp, vegetables, and tea.
Notes
- Adjust water for the desired thickness.
- Store in the fridge for 5 days; do not freeze.
- Try vegan or spicy variations.
- Pair with fried rice.
