Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Japanese Shrimp Dipping Sauce?
This is a creamy, sweet, and tangy sauce inspired by the shrimp sauce served at Japanese teppanyaki and hibachi restaurants.
What does the Japanese Shrimp Dipping Sauce taste like?
It features a harmonious blend of creamy mayonnaise, sweetness from sugar, and a mild tang from rice vinegar.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 6 simple ingredients: mayonnaise, sugar, rice vinegar, melted butter, paprika, and garlic powder.
Why does the sauce need to be refrigerated for 24 hours?
A 24-hour resting period allows the flavors of the sugar, vinegar, and spices to meld and develop a deeper, more balanced taste.
Can I serve the sauce immediately after making it?
While you can serve it immediately, it is highly recommended to wait at least 24 hours for the best restaurant-quality flavor.
How many calories are in a serving of this sauce?
There are 120 calories per serving.
What is the fat content per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 9.4g of fat.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes approximately 10 servings.
Is there any protein in the Savory Japanese Shrimp Dipping Sauce?
It contains a small amount of protein, roughly 0.3g per serving.
What is the carbohydrate count for this recipe?
There are 2.4g of carbohydrates per serving.
What kind of vinegar should I use?
Rice vinegar is recommended because it is milder and sweeter than white distilled vinegar.
Does this sauce contain butter?
Yes, the recipe uses 2 tablespoons of melted butter to add richness to the texture.
What is the role of paprika in this sauce?
Paprika provides a subtle earthy flavor and gives the sauce its characteristic pale pink or orange hue.
Is this sauce the same as 'Yum Yum Sauce'?
Yes, this recipe is very similar to the popular 'Yum Yum Sauce' found in hibachi steakhouses.
How should I store the leftover sauce?
Store the sauce in an airtight container or a bowl covered with plastic wrap in the refrigerator.
Can this sauce be used for foods other than shrimp?
Absolutely! It is excellent with grilled chicken, steak, vegetables, or fried rice.
What is the best way to mix the ingredients?
Whisk the ingredients thoroughly in a mixing bowl until the texture is completely smooth and well-blended.
Is this sauce spicy?
No, this is a mild sauce. If you prefer heat, you could add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
Can I use this as a drizzle instead of a dip?
Yes, it works beautifully as a drizzle over seafood dishes or bowls.
Is the garlic powder essential?
Yes, garlic powder adds a necessary savory depth to the sauce.
Can I substitute the sugar?
You can try a sugar substitute, but it may slightly alter the traditional flavor profile of the teppanyaki-style sauce.
Does the sauce need to be cooked?
No cooking is required, other than melting the butter.
How long will the sauce stay fresh in the fridge?
When kept in an airtight container, it typically stays fresh for about 5 to 7 days.
Is this sauce gluten-free?
The primary ingredients are generally gluten-free, but always check your mayonnaise and spice labels to be certain.
Can I use salted or unsalted butter?
Either works, though unsalted butter allows you more control over the final saltiness of the sauce.
What kind of mayonnaise is best for this recipe?
A standard, full-fat creamy mayonnaise provides the best texture and traditional flavor.
Is this recipe dairy-free?
No, because it contains butter. You can use a dairy-free butter substitute if needed.
Can I make a larger batch?
Yes, you can easily double or triple the ingredients to accommodate a larger group.
Should I serve the sauce warm or cold?
The sauce should be served chilled.
Is this sauce suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, it is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat products, though it does contain egg and dairy.