Authentic Japanese White Sauce (Yum Yum Sauce) Recipe
If you’ve ever enjoyed Japanese hibachi-style meals, you’ve probably fallen in love with the famous creamy white sauce often known as Yum Yum Sauce. It’s rich, slightly sweet, and full of flavor — perfect as a dip, drizzle, or dressing.
Today, we’re showing you how to easily make it at home with simple ingredients you already have in your kitchen!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste (or ketchup for a slightly sweeter flavor)
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar as an alternative)
- 2–3 tablespoons water (to adjust consistency)
Instructions:
1. Mix the Base
In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, tomato paste (or ketchup), melted butter, garlic powder, paprika, sugar, and rice vinegar. Stir everything together until smooth and well-blended.
2. Adjust the Consistency
Gradually add water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Continue until the sauce reaches a smooth, pourable consistency — thick enough to cling to food but light enough to drizzle.
3. Let It Rest
Cover the sauce and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to fully meld and develop, giving you that authentic restaurant-style taste.
4. Serve and Enjoy
Serve the Yum Yum Sauce as a dip for shrimp, chicken, steak, or drizzle it over grilled vegetables, fried rice, or sushi bowls.
Enjoy the homemade magic!
Quick Tips:
- For a spicier kick, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Adjust the sugar if you prefer a less sweet version.