Creamy.
Tangy.
Slightly sweet.
This famous Japanese steakhouse Benihana Yum Yum sauce makes everything taste better.
If you’ve ever eaten at Benihana or a hibachi restaurant, you’ve probably tasted Yum Yum sauce.
That creamy pink sauce served with shrimp, steak, and fried rice is one of the most addictive dipping sauces ever created. The great news is that it’s incredibly easy to make at home.
Quick Answer
Benihana Yum Yum sauce is a creamy Japanese steakhouse dipping sauce made from mayonnaise, ketchup, garlic powder, sugar, and paprika.
It’s commonly served with:
- hibachi shrimp
- grilled chicken
- fried rice
- roasted vegetables
- steak
The sauce takes just a few minutes to mix and develops even better flavor after chilling.
Why This Recipe Works
Yum Yum sauce works because it balances creamy richness with light sweetness and mild spice.
Mayonnaise creates the smooth base, while ketchup adds sweetness and the signature pink color.
Garlic powder and paprika bring savory depth and a subtle smoky flavor.
Rice vinegar brightens the sauce, and a short rest in the fridge lets the flavors blend into the classic hibachi-style dip.
What It Tastes Like
Yum Yum sauce has a creamy, slightly sweet, tangy flavor with mild garlic notes.
You’ll notice:
- rich creamy texture
- mild sweetness
- subtle smoky paprika
- light garlic flavor
The texture is thick and smooth, perfect for dipping or drizzling.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoon water
Why These Ingredients Matter
Mayonnaise creates the creamy base.
Ketchup provides sweetness and color.
Garlic powder adds savory depth.
Paprika brings mild smoky flavor.
Rice vinegar balances the sauce with light acidity.
Together they recreate the iconic hibachi restaurant sauce.
How to Make It
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
In a bowl whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, sugar, garlic powder, paprika, and rice vinegar.
Step 2: Add Water
Whisk in water until the sauce becomes smooth and slightly thinner.
Step 3: Mix Well
Continue whisking until the sauce is fully combined.
Step 4: Chill
Refrigerate the sauce for at least 30 minutes.
Step 5: Serve
Stir before serving and adjust thickness if needed.
The flavor becomes better after resting in the refrigerator.
Benihana Yum Yum Sauce
Ingredients
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoon water
Instructions
- Whisk mayonnaise, ketchup, sugar, garlic powder, paprika and vinegar.
- Add water and mix until smooth.
- Refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
Pro Tips
• Let the sauce chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
• Adjust sugar depending on your preferred sweetness.
• Add a pinch of cayenne for a slight spicy kick.
• Use Japanese mayonnaise for a richer flavor.
Ingredient Swaps
No rice vinegar?
Use apple cider vinegar.
Need a lighter version?
Use light mayonnaise.
Want extra flavor?
Add a small amount of melted butter.
Make It Your Way
Yum Yum sauce is incredibly versatile:
- dipping sauce for shrimp
- hibachi steak sauce
- burger sauce
- fry dipping sauce
- grilled vegetable sauce
Many people even use it as a sandwich spread.
Storage & Meal Prep
Store the sauce in an airtight jar in the refrigerator.
Shelf life: up to 1 week.
Stir before serving.
Freezing is not recommended because mayonnaise may separate.
Common Questions
Why is it called Yum Yum sauce?
Because of its addictive flavor — the name reflects how delicious it is.
Is it the same as hibachi sauce?
Yes, it’s the same sauce commonly served at hibachi restaurants.
Is Yum Yum sauce spicy?
No, it’s mild and slightly sweet.
Can I make it healthier?
Use light mayonnaise.
Can I use it for burgers?
Yes, it makes a fantastic burger sauce.
What dishes pair best with it?
Shrimp, chicken, steak, fried rice, and vegetables.
You Might Also Like
• Sesame Sauce
• Thai Peanut Sauce
• General Tso Sauce
• Hibachi Fried Rice
Final Thoughts
Benihana Yum Yum sauce is one of the easiest restaurant sauces to recreate at home.
With just a few ingredients, you can bring that classic hibachi flavor straight to your kitchen.
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