Creamy Japanese Steakhouse Yum Yum Sauce
This creamy, mildly spicy sauce is the perfect accompaniment to grilled meats, seafood, rice, and vegetables, inspired by popular Japanese steakhouses. After years of experimenting, I've perfected this pinkish sauce that balances sweetness with a touch of heat. Whether drizzled over hibachi dishes or used as a dipping sauce, this Yum Yum Sauce adds a burst of flavor that elevates any meal. Make it ahead of time for the best taste, allowing the flavors to meld overnight for a truly delicious experience.
6
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Hellmann's mayonnaise
1 1/4 cups
water
1/4 cup
tomato paste
1 teaspoon
melted butter
1 tablespoon
garlic powder
3/4 teaspoon
sugar
1 teaspoon
paprika
1/4 teaspoon
cayenne pepper
1/4 teaspoon
Instructions
1
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, water, tomato paste, and melted butter.
2
Add the garlic powder, sugar, paprika, and cayenne pepper into the bowl.
3
Using a stick blender, blend the mixture until it is smooth and creamy, ensuring all ingredients are well incorporated.
4
Transfer the Yum Yum Sauce to an airtight container and refrigerate it for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best flavor.
5
Stir well before serving and enjoy over your favorite grilled dishes, seafood, or as a dip!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Japanese Steakhouse Yum Yum Sauce?
Yum Yum Sauce is a creamy, mildly spicy, and sweet condiment popular in Japanese steakhouses, perfect for grilled meats, seafood, rice, and vegetables.
What are the main ingredients in this Yum Yum Sauce recipe?
The main ingredients include Hellmann's mayonnaise, water, tomato paste, melted butter, garlic powder, sugar, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
How long does it take to prepare the sauce?
The preparation involves mixing and blending, which takes only a few minutes, but it requires at least 4 hours of refrigeration for the flavors to meld.
Why do I need to refrigerate the sauce overnight?
Allowing the sauce to sit overnight allows the spices and flavors to fully incorporate and develop for a truly delicious experience.
Can I use a different brand of mayonnaise?
While the recipe specifically mentions Hellmann's for its flavor profile, you can use your preferred brand of mayonnaise.
Is this Yum Yum Sauce spicy?
This sauce is mildly spicy due to the addition of 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, providing a balanced heat.
Do I need a stick blender for this recipe?
A stick blender is recommended to ensure the mixture becomes perfectly smooth and creamy, though a regular blender or vigorous whisking can work.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.
What gives Yum Yum Sauce its pink color?
The signature pinkish hue comes from the combination of tomato paste and paprika mixed into the mayonnaise base.
Can I serve this sauce immediately?
You can, but it is highly recommended to refrigerate it for at least 4 hours first to ensure the best taste.
Is Yum Yum Sauce the same as Hibachi sauce?
Yes, it is frequently referred to as Hibachi sauce or Japanese shrimp sauce in restaurants.
How should I store the leftover sauce?
Store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Can I use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder?
Garlic powder is preferred for a smooth texture, but you can use finely minced fresh garlic if you prefer a stronger garlic bite.
Is there butter in Yum Yum Sauce?
Yes, this recipe uses one tablespoon of melted butter to add richness to the sauce.
Can I substitute the sugar?
You can use a honey or a sugar substitute if you are looking to adjust the sweetness, though granulated sugar is traditional.
What is the purpose of adding water to the recipe?
Water is used to thin the mayonnaise base to the perfect pourable consistency.
Is this sauce gluten-free?
The ingredients listed are typically gluten-free, but always check the labels on your mayonnaise and tomato paste to be certain.
Can I use this as a dipping sauce?
Yes, it is an excellent dipping sauce for shrimp, steak, and even french fries.
How much tomato paste is required?
This recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of tomato paste.
Is this recipe vegan?
No, this recipe contains mayonnaise (eggs) and butter (dairy). You would need vegan substitutes for both to make it vegan.
What type of paprika should I use?
Standard sweet paprika is best for the traditional flavor, though smoked paprika can be used for a different twist.
Should I stir the sauce before serving?
Yes, it is best to stir the sauce well after it has been refrigerated to ensure a consistent texture.
Can I use ketchup instead of tomato paste?
You can, but tomato paste provides a more concentrated flavor and better color without the added vinegar of ketchup.
Is Yum Yum Sauce dairy-free?
No, it contains melted butter.
Can I add more cayenne pepper?
Yes, if you prefer a spicier sauce, you can increase the cayenne pepper to your liking.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 8 ingredients: mayonnaise, water, tomato paste, butter, garlic powder, sugar, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
Does Yum Yum Sauce contain seafood?
No, the sauce itself does not contain seafood, though it is commonly served with it.
Can I use this on a salad?
Yes, it works very well as a creamy dressing for salads.
How do I make the sauce smoother?
Using a blender or stick blender is the most effective way to achieve a professional, smooth consistency.
Is this recipe low carb?
While mayonnaise is low carb, the added sugar and tomato paste contribute some carbohydrates. Check specific nutritional data for your brands used.