This creamy, tangy Yum Yum sauce is perfect for drizzling on your favorite hibachi dishes. Made with mayo, tomato paste, and a splash of vinegar, it’s super easy to whip up!
I love how this sauce brings a tasty kick to grilled veggies and shrimp. Just mix and serve—it’s a crowd-pleaser! Get ready to make your meals extra yummy! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mayonnaise: This is the base of your Yum Yum sauce. For a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt or low-fat mayo. A vegan mayo works well for plant-based diets.
Tomato Paste: It gives a nice color and slight sweetness. If you don’t have tomato paste, ketchup can be used as a substitute, though it will alter the flavor slightly.
Garlic Powder: This ingredient adds depth. You can swap it for fresh minced garlic, but be careful with the amount, as fresh garlic can be stronger.
A vinegar substitute: Rice vinegar adds a mild tang. White vinegar or apple cider vinegar can work in a pinch, but adjust the amount to your taste.
How Do You Get the Right Consistency for Your Sauce?
The thickness of Yum Yum sauce should be smooth and pourable, not too gloopy. If you find the sauce too thick, add water gradually. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it out once it’s in!
- Mix mayonnaise and tomato paste first, until very smooth.
- After adding rice vinegar, check the consistency. If it feels thick, add a tablespoon of water.
- Continue adding water bit by bit until you achieve your preferred thickness.
Letting the sauce chill in the fridge allows the flavors to develop, making it even tastier!
Easy Homemade Yum Yum Sauce for Hibachi
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1-2 tablespoons water (to thin, if needed)
- Salt to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare, and it’s best to let your Yum Yum sauce chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to enhance the flavors. So, in total, you’re looking at around 40 minutes before it’s ready to serve.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base:
In a medium bowl, add the cup of mayonnaise and the two tablespoons of tomato paste. Use a whisk or a spoon to combine them until the mixture is smooth and uniform in color.
2. Add Flavor:
Now it’s time to give your sauce some flavor! Stir in the melted butter, garlic powder, sugar, and paprika. Mix well until everything is nicely incorporated.
3. Add Vinegar:
Pour in the tablespoon of rice vinegar, and give it another good stir. This will add a nice tang to your sauce!
4. Adjust Consistency:
If you find the sauce a bit thick, don’t worry! You can thin it out by adding 1 to 2 tablespoons of water. Start with one tablespoon and mix again; add more if you prefer it thinner.
5. Taste and Season:
Now, take a little taste of your Yum Yum sauce. If you think it needs it, sprinkle in some salt to enhance the flavor. Mix again after adding salt.
6. Chill in the Fridge:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid. Pop it into the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This waiting time is important because it allows the flavors to meld and become deliciously rich!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Yum Yum sauce is all set! Serve it chilled as a dip for salads, hibachi grilled meats, veggies, or seafood. Enjoy your delightful creation!
FAQ for Easy Homemade Yum Yum Sauce
Can I Use Low-Fat Mayonnaise for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Low-fat mayonnaise will still give you a creamy texture, but keep in mind that the flavor might be slightly different. You can also try Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
How Can I Store Leftover Sauce?
Store any leftover Yum Yum sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for up to one week. Just give it a good stir before serving again!
Can I Make This Sauce Spicier?
Absolutely! If you love a bit of heat, add a dash of sriracha or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mix before chilling. Adjust to your spice preference for the perfect kick!
Is There a Substitute for Rice Vinegar?
Yes! If you don’t have rice vinegar, you can use white vinegar or apple cider vinegar. Start with a little less than the recipe calls for, then adjust to taste, as these vinegars can be a bit stronger.
