Yum Yum Sauce is a delightful and versatile condiment that adds a burst of flavor to a variety of dishes. Often associated with Japanese steakhouses, this creamy sauce is perfect for dipping, drizzling, or even as a salad dressing. Its sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy profile makes it a favorite among many.
When preparing this recipe, you might need to visit the supermarket for a few specific ingredients. Rice vinegar is a key component that adds a unique tanginess, and it might not be a staple in every pantry. Additionally, Paprika and Garlic powder are essential for achieving the right flavor profile, so make sure to pick them up if you don't already have them.

Ingredients for Yum Yum Sauce Recipe
Mayonnaise: The creamy base of the sauce, providing a rich texture.
Ketchup: Adds a touch of sweetness and tanginess.
Granulated sugar: Enhances the sweetness of the sauce.
Rice vinegar: Contributes a mild tangy flavor.
Melted butter: Adds richness and a smooth texture.
Garlic powder: Provides a subtle garlic flavor.
Paprika: Adds a mild spiciness and color.
Salt: Enhances all the flavors.
Ground black pepper: Adds a hint of spice.
Water: Used to adjust the consistency of the sauce.
Technique Tip for This Sauce
For a smoother and more flavorful Yum Yum Sauce, make sure to use room temperature mayonnaise and melted butter. This helps the ingredients blend more seamlessly. Additionally, allowing the sauce to refrigerate for at least an hour not only thickens it but also allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste.
Suggested Side Dishes
Alternative Ingredients
mayonnaise - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt provides a similar creamy texture and tanginess while being lower in fat.
ketchup - Substitute with tomato paste and honey: Tomato paste offers a concentrated tomato flavor, and honey adds the necessary sweetness.
granulated sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey provides a natural sweetness and can add a slight floral note.
rice vinegar - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar has a similar acidity and a slightly fruity flavor.
melted butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil provides a similar richness and can add a subtle fruity flavor.
garlic powder - Substitute with fresh minced garlic: Fresh minced garlic offers a more intense and fresh garlic flavor.
paprika - Substitute with smoked paprika: Smoked paprika adds a similar color and a smoky depth of flavor.
salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce adds saltiness along with umami depth.
ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper provides a similar spiciness but with a slightly different flavor profile.
water - Substitute with milk: Milk can help thin the sauce while adding a slight creaminess.
Other Alternative Recipes Similar to This Sauce
How to Store / Freeze This Sauce
- Store your Yum Yum Sauce in an airtight container to maintain its freshness and flavor. A mason jar or a plastic container with a tight-fitting lid works perfectly.
- Keep the sauce refrigerated at all times. It should be stored at a temperature below 40°F (4°C) to prevent any bacterial growth.
- For optimal taste, consume the sauce within 7-10 days. While it may last a bit longer, the flavors are best enjoyed within this timeframe.
- If you notice any separation, simply give it a good stir before using. This is normal and doesn't affect the quality of the sauce.
- To freeze the Yum Yum Sauce, transfer it to a freezer-safe container, leaving a bit of space at the top for expansion. Label the container with the date to keep track of its freshness.
- When ready to use, thaw the sauce in the refrigerator overnight. Avoid thawing at room temperature to ensure food safety.
- Once thawed, give the sauce a thorough stir to restore its creamy consistency. If needed, adjust the texture with a bit of water.
- Avoid refreezing the sauce after it has been thawed, as this can compromise both texture and flavor.
- For a delightful twist, try adding a bit of sriracha or soy sauce before serving to elevate the flavor profile.
How to Reheat Leftovers
- Place the Yum Yum Sauce in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat it in the microwave on medium power for 15-20 seconds. Stir well and check the temperature. Repeat if necessary, but avoid overheating to maintain the sauce's creamy texture.
- Alternatively, pour the Yum Yum Sauce into a small saucepan. Warm it over low heat on the stove, stirring continuously to prevent it from separating. This method ensures even heating and preserves the sauce's consistency.
- If you prefer a gentler approach, use a double boiler. Fill the bottom pot with water and bring it to a simmer. Place the Yum Yum Sauce in the top pot and stir occasionally until it reaches the desired temperature. This method is ideal for maintaining the sauce's smoothness.
- For a quick fix, you can also place the Yum Yum Sauce in a heatproof bowl and set it over a pot of hot water. Stir occasionally until warmed through. This method is similar to the double boiler but requires less equipment.
- If you have a sous-vide machine, seal the Yum Yum Sauce in a vacuum bag and immerse it in a water bath set to 140°F (60°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This method ensures precise temperature control and prevents any risk of overheating.
Best Tools for Making This Sauce
Mixing bowl: A large bowl used to combine and mix all the ingredients together.
Whisk: A utensil used to blend the ingredients until smooth and well combined.
Measuring cups: Tools used to measure the exact amount of mayonnaise, ketchup, and water.
Measuring spoons: Tools used to measure the precise amounts of sugar, rice vinegar, melted butter, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and ground black pepper.
Refrigerator: An appliance used to chill the sauce for at least one hour before serving.
Spatula: A tool used to scrape down the sides of the mixing bowl to ensure all ingredients are fully incorporated.
How to Save Time on Making This Sauce
Prepare ingredients in advance: Measure out and organize all ingredients before you start mixing. This will make the process smoother and faster.
Use a food processor: Blend the ingredients in a food processor for a quicker and more consistent mix.
Melt butter in microwave: Use the microwave to quickly melt the butter instead of waiting for it to melt on the stove.
Double the batch: Make a larger batch and store the extra sauce in the fridge for future use, saving time on your next meal.
Pre-mix dry ingredients: Combine all dry ingredients like sugar, garlic powder, and paprika in a small bowl before adding to the main mix.

Yum Yum Sauce Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup Mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoon Ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Granulated Sugar
- 1 tablespoon Rice Vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Melted Butter
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 1 teaspoon Paprika
- ½ teaspoon Salt
- ½ teaspoon Ground Black Pepper
- 2 tablespoon Water to thin, if needed
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine all ingredients.
- Whisk until smooth and well combined.
- Adjust consistency with water if needed.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
Nutritional Value
Keywords
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