Yum Yum Sauce Recipe (Easy, Homemade & Benihana Copycat)

Introduction

If you’ve ever dipped your fried rice or shrimp into a creamy pink sauce at a Japanese steakhouse, you’ve probably wondered: What does yum yum sauce taste like? The short answer, it’s sweet, tangy, a little smoky, and ridiculously addictive. People love it because it turns even plain white rice into something crave-worthy.

I still remember the first time I tried it at a hibachi place. I thought, “This sauce is doing way too much…and I love it.” I asked the chef for extra, and he winked like he knew I’d be hooked forever. That’s how yum yum sauce gets you, it sneaks into your taste buds and stays there.

In this guide, I’ll show you how to make yum yum sauce at home, explore the best recipes, cover calories, variations like spicy or sugar-free, and even where to buy it if cooking isn’t your thing. Whether you’re curious about the Benihana yum yum sauce recipe or just want the best homemade version, you’ll find everything here.

So grab your spoon, because by the end you’ll know exactly why this sauce is called “yum yum.”

What Is Yum Yum Sauce?

Yum yum sauce is a creamy, mayonnaise-based sauce served at Japanese steakhouses in the U.S. It’s not traditionally Japanese, but became famous because of hibachi grills.

Think of it as Japan’s answer to ranch, but with a smoky, tangy kick. People often call it Japanese yum yum sauce, though technically it’s an American creation. Still, it pairs perfectly with hibachi chicken, steak, fried rice, or even sushi rolls.

Taste & Texture

Yum yum sauce tastes sweet, tangy, and creamy with a hint of spice. Imagine mayonnaise and ketchup had a baby, then invited garlic and paprika to the party. That’s the flavor vibe.

When I first tried it, I thought it was like a mix between Thousand Island dressing and spicy aioli, but lighter and smoother. Kids usually love it, but adults end up sneaking extra spoonfuls too.

How to Make Yum Yum Sauce at Home

The easiest way to enjoy yum yum sauce is to make it yourself. You only need simple pantry staples, and it takes less than 10 minutes.

Yum Yum Sauce Recipe Easy

Start with mayonnaise, ketchup, sugar, garlic powder, and paprika. Mix them in a bowl until smooth. Add water to thin it slightly, then chill. Done.

Homemade Yum Yum Sauce Recipe

My version? I sneak in a touch of rice vinegar for tang and a splash of melted butter. It gives the sauce that restaurant-style silkiness. Sometimes I even let it sit overnight, trust me, it tastes better the next day.

Copycat Yum Yum Sauce Recipe

Want the Benihana yum yum sauce recipe? This copycat approach is pretty close:

• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tbsp sugar
• ½ tsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar
• 2 tbsp water
  Whisk it all together and chill. It’s not 100% identical (I think they keep a secret), but it’s so close you won’t care.

Benihana Yum Yum Sauce Recipe

While the exact formula is locked away, most hibachi chefs agree it’s mayo-based with tomato paste, spices, and butter. If you’ve eaten at Benihana, this recipe above will scratch the itch.

Variations & Special Diets

Good news: yum yum sauce can fit different diets. With a few tweaks, you can make it healthier, spicier, or allergy-friendly.

Healthy Yum Yum Sauce Recipe

Swap regular mayo for Greek yogurt or light mayo. Use honey instead of sugar. The flavor’s lighter but still satisfying.

Sugar Free Yum Yum Sauce

Go with sugar-free ketchup and skip the added sugar. It’s surprisingly tasty and works great for low-carb diets.

Spicy Yum Yum Sauce Recipe

Add sriracha, cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot paprika. I once added too much chili paste and, oops, ended up with fire-in-a-bowl. But if you love heat, it’s perfect.

Is Yum Yum Sauce Gluten Free?

Yes, most homemade versions are gluten-free if you use gluten-free ketchup and mayo. Always check store-bought bottles, though, because some add soy sauce or thickeners.

Nutritional Info

One tablespoon of yum yum sauce is about 70–100 calories. Most of it comes from fat because mayonnaise is the base.

When I first realized this, I thought, “Well, that explains why it tastes so good.” But hey, if you’re just dipping or drizzling, you’ll be fine. Moderation is key (though I rarely practice it when hibachi shrimp is on the table).

Uses & Serving Ideas

The best way to enjoy yum yum sauce is on hibachi dishes, fried rice, or grilled meats. But it doesn’t stop there.

Yum Yum Sauce for Hibachi

At hibachi restaurants, it’s drizzled over chicken, steak, and shrimp. The smoky grill flavors plus the creamy sauce = magic.

Yum Yum Sauce with Chicken Fried Rice

If you’ve never tried it on fried rice, you’re missing out. The sauce melts into the hot rice, coating every bite. It’s like comfort food got an upgrade.

Yum Yum Sauce Near Me

Don’t feel like making it? Many grocery stores and hibachi takeout spots sell it. Just search “yum yum sauce near me” and you’ll probably find a jar at Walmart, Costco, or even Amazon.

Where to Buy

You can buy yum yum sauce online or in most big grocery stores.

• Yum yum sauce Walmart: Check the condiment aisle.
• Yum yum sauce Amazon: Tons of options, including restaurant-sized bottles.
• Primal Kitchen Yum Yum Sauce: A healthier, paleo-friendly brand that skips added sugar and dairy.

Personally, I keep a store-bought bottle in the fridge for lazy nights, but homemade still wins for flavor.

FAQ

Q1: What’s the best homemade yum yum sauce recipe?
The best one is the classic mix of mayo, ketchup, vinegar, sugar, paprika, and garlic powder. Start simple, then adjust.

Q2: Is there a healthy or sugar-free version?
Yes! Swap mayo for Greek yogurt and use sugar-free ketchup. It’s lighter but still tasty.

Q3: Is yum yum sauce gluten-free?
Homemade usually is. Just double-check labels on store-bought versions.

Q4: Can I make spicy yum yum sauce?
Of course. Stir in sriracha or chili paste.

Q5: What does yum yum sauce taste like?
It’s sweet, tangy, creamy, and a little smoky. Like ketchup and mayo had a fancy makeover.

Q6: Where can I buy it?
Most big stores carry it, Walmart, Costco, or Amazon. Look for Primal Kitchen if you want a healthier bottle.

Conclusion

So, there you have it, the complete lowdown on yum yum sauce. From how to make yum yum sauce at home to buying it at Walmart or Amazon, we’ve covered it all.

If you ask me, the homemade version still reigns supreme. But whether you want the best yum yum sauce recipe, the sugar-free variation, or just need a jar right now, there’s an option waiting.

Next time you’re at a hibachi table, ask for extra sauce. Trust me, you’ll want more than one scoop.