Yum Yum Sauce is the creamy, slightly tangy, and just-sweet-enough dipping sauce that makes meals unforgettable. It’s incredibly easy to make at home with pantry staples, and once you try it, you’ll want to drizzle it over everything from grilled meats to fried rice. One of our favorite pairings is our Firecracker Chicken recipe.

A jar of yum yum sauce with a spoon.

What is Yum Yum Sauce?

Yum Yum Sauce is a Japanese steakhouse-style condiment, often served alongside hibachi chicken, shrimp, or vegetables. It’s a mayonnaise-based sauce with ketchup, a touch of sugar, and savory seasonings that blend into a silky, flavorful dip. Its creamy texture and balanced flavor profile make it a versatile addition to so many meals.

How to Use Yum Yum Sauce

While this sauce is most commonly served at Japanese steakhouses, you don’t need hibachi to enjoy it at home. Try it with:

Tips and Variations

  • Make it spicier: Add a pinch of cayenne or a few drops of sriracha for a kick.
  • Lighten it up: Use light mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for a lower-calorie version.
  • More savory depth: A splash of soy sauce enhances the umami flavor.
  • Extra creamy: Blend the sauce after mixing to create an ultra-smooth consistency.
A jar of yum yum sauce with a spoon.

Storage

Store Yum Yum Sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. The flavors deepen as it rests, so it actually tastes better the next day. Be sure to stir before using.

A jar of yum yum sauce with a spoon.

Yum Yum Sauce

Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Creamy, tangy, and sweet Yum Yum Sauce made in minutes! Perfect for hibachi, seafood, or dipping fries; easy to customize at home!
Print Rate Comment

Ingredients

  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon onion powder
  • 1½ teaspoons rice wine vinegar
  • ¾ teaspoon toasted sesame oil
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • 2-3 tablespoons water

Instructions

  • In a medium bowl, add mayonnaise, ketchup, granulated sugar, garlic powder, and onion powder. Whisk until smooth.
  • Add rice wine vinegar, toasted sesame oil, and kosher salt. Whisk again to fully combine.
  • Gradually whisk in the water until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
  • Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 1 hour to let the flavors come together. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Course: sauces and dips
Keyword: Yum Yum Sauce
Servings: 8

Yum Yum Pairings

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe Rating