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Dorothy Thomas

Yum Yum Sauce Recipe

This creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet Yum Yum Sauce is a Japanese steakhouse favorite! Perfect for drizzling over grilled meats, seafood, or as a dipping sauce for veggies and sushi.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 0 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings: 1
Course: Condiment, Sauce, Side
Cuisine: Japanese-American
Calories: 60

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup Mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp Unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tbsp Tomato paste
  • 1 tbsp Rice vinegar
  • 1 tsp Sugar
  • ½ tsp Paprika
  • ½ tsp Garlic powder
  • ½ tsp Onion powder
  • 1 pinch Cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1-2 tbsp Water (to thin if needed)

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk or fork
  • Measuring spoons/cups
  • Airtight container (for storage)

Method
 

  1. Melt Butter: In a small bowl, melt the butter and let it cool slightly.
  2. Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, melted butter, tomato paste, rice vinegar, sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne (if using).
  3. Adjust Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add water (1 tbsp at a time) until desired consistency is reached.
  4. Chill & Serve: For best flavor, refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.

Notes

  • For a Smokier Flavor: Substitute smoked paprika for regular paprika.
  • Dairy-Free Option: Replace butter with 1 tbsp of neutral oil (like avocado oil).
  • Spice Level: Adjust cayenne pepper to taste or omit for a mild version.
  • Make Ahead: This sauce tastes even better the next day as flavors meld!