Easy Japanese Steakhouse Yum Yum Sauce Recipe
Everyone who’s visited a Japanese steakhouse knows the magic of that creamy pink dipping sauce—the iconic Yum Yum Sauce. I’ve recreated it in my kitchen more times than I can count, and I’ve finally fine-tuned the easiest and most flavorful version of it yet. Whether you’re drizzling it over hibachi shrimp or dipping your fries, this sauce delivers that signature tangy-sweet punch every time.
🥢 What is Yum Yum Sauce?
Yum Yum Sauce is a creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet condiment served at Japanese steakhouses—especially in hibachi-style dining. Despite being a Japanese steakhouse staple in the U.S., it’s largely an American invention.
Definition List
- Yum Yum Sauce: A mayonnaise-based condiment often flavored with tomato paste, sugar, garlic powder, paprika, and vinegar. Known for its pink color and creamy texture.
- Hibachi: A style of Japanese cooking involving an open-top grill, often used in tableside performances at steakhouses.
- Aioli: A garlic-flavored mayonnaise, sometimes used as a base or comparative flavor to Yum Yum Sauce.
🍶 Ingredients Breakdown
Here’s what you’ll need to make your own Yum Yum Sauce at home:
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Mayonnaise | 1 cup | Creamy base |
| Tomato Paste | 1 tablespoon | Adds color and tangy richness |
| Rice Vinegar | 1 tablespoon | Balances sweetness with acidity |
| Sugar | 1 tablespoon | Enhances the overall sweetness |
| Paprika | 1 teaspoon | Adds smoky depth and mild heat |
| Garlic Powder | 1 teaspoon | Infuses savory undertone |
| Onion Powder | 1/2 teaspoon | Boosts umami notes |
| Butter (melted) | 1 tablespoon | Adds richness and smooth texture |
| Water | 2–3 tablespoons | Adjusts consistency |
| Optional: Hot Sauce | Few drops | Adds a little heat (optional) |
🔪 Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Yum Yum Sauce at Home:
Step 1: Mix the Base
- In a medium bowl, add mayonnaise, tomato paste, rice vinegar, sugar, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Step 2: Add Melted Butter
- Stir in the melted butter while it’s still warm but not hot.
Step 3: Adjust Consistency
- Slowly add water, 1 tablespoon at a time, stirring until the sauce reaches your desired thickness.
Step 4: Optional Heat
- If you like a kick, stir in a few drops of hot sauce.
Step 5: Chill Before Serving
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to let the flavors marry beautifully.
🍱 How to Serve Yum Yum Sauce
This sauce is as versatile as it is delicious. Here’s how I love to enjoy it:
- Drizzled over grilled shrimp or steak
- Dipping sauce for tempura, fries, or crab rangoon
- Topping for rice bowls or poke
- Spread in sushi burritos or wraps
- Paired with grilled vegetables
🍴 Tips for the Best Yum Yum Sauce
- Use high-quality mayonnaise – it makes all the difference.
- Let it rest in the fridge – chilling develops depth and balance.
- Customize – add more tomato paste for tang or paprika for a smoky hit.
- Make it in advance – it lasts up to a week in an airtight container in the fridge.
🧂 Nutritional Information (Per 2 Tbsp Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
| Calories | 160 kcal |
| Fat | 17g |
| Carbohydrates | 2g |
| Protein | 0g |
| Sugar | 1.5g |
| Sodium | 120mg |
Note: Values are approximate and based on standard ingredients.
💬 Q & A Section
Q: Can I make this sauce dairy-free?
Yes! Just skip the butter or replace it with a plant-based alternative.
Q: Is this the same as Japanese white sauce?
It’s a variation of it. Some places call it shrimp sauce, pink sauce, or white sauce—but it’s usually referring to this same style.
Q: How long does it last in the fridge?
You can store it in an airtight container for up to 7 days.
Q: Can I freeze Yum Yum Sauce?
Freezing is not recommended as it can separate and change the texture.
Q: What if I don’t have rice vinegar?
You can substitute it with apple cider vinegar or white vinegar in a pinch.
🥄 Final Thoughts
Making Yum Yum Sauce at home is not only incredibly easy but also deeply rewarding. I love being able to tweak the flavor to match my mood—spicier, tangier, or a touch sweeter. The best part? It pairs with almost everything. Next time you’re planning hibachi night at home, don’t skip this sauce—it truly completes the meal.