Benihana Yum Yum Sauce Recipe

This creamy, slightly sweet sauce is the best part of any hibachi meal! In my opinion, of course!

The secret to getting it just right is using Japanese mayo—it’s a huge deal for both texture and taste.

A touch of smoked paprika gives it that hint of depth you don’t realize is there until you taste it side by side with a plain version.

This sauce pairs well with grilled meats, but I also spread it on burgers and even use it as a dip for roasted vegetables.

If it’s too thick, a little splash of water or milk will thin it out without affecting the balance of ingredients.

A small drizzle of melted butter at the end gives it an extra layer of richness that makes it even better!

How to Make Benihana Yum Yum Sauce

Ingredients

• 1 ¼ cups Mayonnaise
• ¼ cup Water
• 1 tbsp Butter (melted)
• 1 tsp Tomato Paste
• 1 tsp Sugar (or more to taste)
• ½ tsp Garlic Powder
• ¼ tsp Paprika
• Dash of Cayenne Pepper (optional)
• 2 tsp Rice Vinegar

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

In a medium-sized bowl, combine 1 ¼ cups of mayonnaise and ¼ cup water until smooth.

Mix well to ensure the perfect creamy base.

Step 2:

Add 1 tablespoon of melted butter, 1 teaspoon tomato paste, and 1 teaspoon sugar to the mixture.

Stir until all the ingredients are incorporated.

Step 3:

Sprinkle in ½ teaspoon of garlic powder and ¼ teaspoon of paprika.

For a bit of heat, add a dash of cayenne pepper if you like.

Combine the spices evenly.

Step 4:

Pour in 2 teaspoons of rice vinegar and continue mixing until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.

It should be smooth and flavorful.

Step 5:

Once mixed, cover and refrigerate the sauce for at least an hour to let the flavors meld.

The resting time makes all the difference.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Adjusting the Sweetness:

You can tweak the sweetness by adding more sugar in small increments until it tastes just right for you.

Adding a Smoky Flavor:

Try substituting regular paprika with smoked paprika to add an extra depth of flavor that’ll tantalize the senses.

Thickness Preference:

If you prefer a thicker sauce, reduce the amount of water or add a touch more mayonnaise until you reach your desired thickness.

Spice Control:

The cayenne pepper is optional and helps control the heat level; start with just a dash and adjust to your taste.

Letting It Rest:

Refrigerating the sauce longer allows the flavors to develop more, so if you can, let it sit overnight.

What to Serve with Benihana Yum Yum Sauce

Fried Rice

You can’t go wrong by serving Benihana yum yum sauce with a delicious bowl of fried rice.

The sauce adds a creamy touch to the vegetables and rice. Yum!

It’s a classic combination, and you’ll enjoy it every time.

Grilled Vegetables

If you’re looking for something lighter, try pairing the sauce with grilled vegetables.

The tangy and creamy flavor complements the smoky taste of grilled zucchini, peppers, or asparagus.

You’ll find this combination both refreshing and delicious.

Black Bean Veggie Burgers

For a plant-based option, consider spreading yum yum sauce on a black bean veggie burger.

The sauce works really well with the texture and flavors of these burgers.

Add some coleslaw on the bun, and it’s a great decision for veggie lovers.

Sweet Potato Fries

The sweetness of the fries with the sauce creates a tasty snack or side dish.

You’ll find this pairing adds an interesting twist to your meal.

Sushi Rolls

Have you tried using the sauce as a dip for sushi rolls?

The creamy texture goes surprisingly well with the fresh flavors of sushi.

Variations and Substitutions

Spicy Twist

You can easily add a spicy kick to your Yum Yum Sauce by incorporating a pinch of cayenne pepper.

If you love bold flavors, try adding a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a bit more heat!

Smoky Flavor

A generous pinch of smoked paprika can give your sauce a rich, smoky undertone.

This change enhances its depth and makes it a fantastic match for grilled foods!

Healthier Version

If you’re looking to lighten it up, swap half the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt.

This substitution maintains the creamy texture but cuts down on calories and fat.

Different Sweeteners

You can use honey or agave syrup if you’re avoiding refined sugars for a hint of natural sweetness.

If you prefer a more savory profile, simply reduce the amount of sweetener used.

Custom Seasonings

Feel free to experiment with other spices you love, like curry powder or cumin.

These seasonings can infuse your sauce with unique flavors that change depending on your taste preferences.

How to Store Leftover Benihana Yum Yum Sauce

It’s always a joy to make more Benihana Yum Yum Sauce than you need because storing it for later is easy and keeps the fun going!

Airtight Containers

Using an airtight container is crucial.

Make sure to select a container that seals well to avoid any air getting in, as it helps keep the sauce fresh longer!

Refrigerator

Refrigeration is key when keeping your sauce ready to go for another meal!

Leftover Yum Yum Sauce can safely stay in the fridge for about 5-7 days.

Stir Before Use

Before you serve it again, give your stored sauce a good stir.

This restores its smooth texture and mixes up any separated ingredients.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not Letting Flavors Meld

After mixing all the ingredients, it’s important to let the sauce rest.

Flavors develop fully when you let it sit in the fridge for several hours.

I recommend refrigerating it overnight for best results.

Using Low-Quality Ingredients

Quality of ingredients makes a difference in taste.

Choose a good-quality mayonnaise as the base for your sauce.

Skipping high-quality tomato paste can lead to a bland result.

Overpowering with Spices

Be cautious with spices like garlic powder and paprika.

Too much can overwhelm other flavors, defeating the purpose of balance.

A little Sriracha or ginger can add a twist, but moderation is key for yum-yum sauce.