Japanese Yum Yum Sauce (Hibachi Style)
Yum yum sauce is the creamy, slightly sweet Japanese steakhouse sauce that makes hibachi dining absolutely irresistible and memorable. This copycat recipe captures that distinctive pale pink color and addictive umami flavor using mayonnaise, tomato paste, rice vinegar, sugar, and a touch of garlic powder. The secret ingredients are smoked paprika for that distinctive color and a tiny bit of cayenne for subtle warmth. Unlike the mystery packets from hibachi restaurants, this homemade version uses real ingredients and tastes remarkably fresh. Perfect for drizzling over hibachi-style fried rice, grilled shrimp, steak, or steamed vegetables. The sauce also makes an excellent dip for chicken fingers or a spread for sandwiches and wraps. Store refrigerated for up to two weeks. The flavor improves after resting overnight.
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Ingredients
- •Mayonnaise - 1 cup
- •Tomato paste - 1 tablespoon
- •Melted butter - 1 tablespoon
- •Garlic powder - 1/2 teaspoon
- •Paprika - 1/2 teaspoon
- •Sugar - 1/2 teaspoon
- •Cayenne pepper - 1/4 teaspoon (optional)
- •Water - 1-2 tablespoons (to thin)
Instructions
- 1
In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise and tomato paste. Whisk together until completely smooth with no streaks.
- 2
Add melted butter and mix well until incorporated.
- 3
Add garlic powder, paprika, sugar, and cayenne pepper (if using). Whisk thoroughly.
- 4
Add water 1 tablespoon at a time to reach desired consistency. Sauce should be pourable but not too thin.
- 5
Taste and adjust seasonings. Add more paprika for color, garlic powder for flavor, or cayenne for heat.
- 6
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
- 7
Stir well before serving. Store refrigerated.
Tips & Variations
Pro Tips
- • Taste and adjust seasoning as you go
- • Use room temperature ingredients for best emulsification
- • Let flavors meld by refrigerating 30 minutes before serving
Storage
- • Refrigerator: Up to 1 week in airtight container
- • Freezer: Up to 3 months (thaw overnight)
Variations
Make it spicier with cayenne, tangier with extra lemon, or creamier with more mayo. Customize to your taste!
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