Yum Yum Sauce Recipe (What's in It and How to Make It)

Yum yum sauce is the creamy pink sauce served with hibachi-style steak, chicken, shrimp and fried rice. It is mostly mayonnaise, with a little ketchup, paprika, garlic and butter for flavour. You can make it in about five minutes with ingredients from any supermarket.

Ingredients

• ½ cup (120 g) mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp rice vinegar or lemon juice
• Pinch of salt
• 1 to 2 tbsp water, to thin

Method

1. Whisk the mayonnaise and melted butter together in a small bowl until smooth.
2. Add the ketchup, paprika, garlic powder, sugar, vinegar and salt. Whisk until fully combined and the colour is even.
3. Add the water one tablespoon at a time until the sauce is smooth and pourable but still thick.
4. Cover and chill for at least 30 minutes so the flavours blend.
5. Serve over fried rice, grilled chicken, steak, shrimp or vegetables. Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week.

Tips

• Taste before serving and adjust the sugar and vinegar. A little more vinegar makes it sharper, a little more sugar makes it sweeter.
• Use full-fat mayonnaise for the creamiest result.
• The sauce thickens as it chills. Stir in a spoon of water before serving if it looks too stiff.

Frequently asked questions

What is yum yum sauce made of?

Mainly mayonnaise, with melted butter, ketchup, paprika, garlic powder, sugar and a splash of vinegar. Some versions add a little water to thin it.

Is yum yum sauce spicy?

No. It is creamy and mildly sweet with a light paprika flavour. Add a pinch of cayenne if you want some heat.

How long does homemade yum yum sauce last?

Up to one week in an airtight container in the fridge.

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