Whether on burgers, salads, or seafood, this Sugar-Free Keto Yum Yum Sauce definitely lives up to its name!
Last month, my mother-in-law took us to a hibachi restaurant that had just opened in town to celebrate her birthday. I had heard a lot about this kind of restaurant and was looking forward to the convivial aspect of the dining experience, as well as the food and the way it would be prepared right in front of me. Well, it turned out to be one of the most memorable nights of my life. And not because of the heavenly yakisoba noodles or perfectly grilled vegetables, but because of that pale pink sauce that was served with nearly every dish. Allow me to say that if you’ve never tried yum yum sauce, you’re definitely missing out,
Sweet, tangy, creamy, and with just the right amount of tongue-tickling spice, yum yum sauce is totally addictive and tastes great with everything from grilled meats and veggies to sandwiches and grain bowls. I even serve it as a dip for snacks such as cauliflower bites and egg rolls.
This keto version is sweet but sugar-free with just a hint of spice. The heat may be dialed up or down by increasing the amount of sriracha. Make a double batch because it’s going to disappear fast!
On the origins of yum yum sauce
Delicious as it is, yum yum sauce is not authentically Japanese. In fact, the sauce is believed to have been invented sometime in the late 20th century when hibachi dining became popular in the United States and chefs created a mayo-based sauce that would appeal to American palates. Though we do not know who invented the sauce precisely, it was Terry Ho, a restaurateur from Georgia, who was the first to bottle it and launch it to fame.
These days, you’ll find many varieties of this tempting sauce at hibachi restaurants across the country, but the basis remains the same: mayo, ketchup or tomato paste, sugar, and rice vinegar.
How do I store leftovers?
Yum yum sauce can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. You can also freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just be sure you let it thaw in the fridge overnight. It will need a good stir, as the ingredients may have separated over time.
Similar recipes to try
When it comes to elevating a meal, nothing beats a good sauce. If you’re serving any kind of seafood, give this zesty Greek Yogurt Tartar Sauce a try. It’s also delicious as a dip for cucumber sticks! Heating up your outdoor grill tonight? Don’t forget to make plenty of our tangy and subtly spicy Keto BBQ Sauce. And when the holidays roll around, this Keto Cranberry Sauce Recipe will be the star of your festive table.
Sugar-Free Keto Yum Yum Sauce
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sugar-free ketchup or tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon sriracha
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar-free sweetener
- 1/2 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1 1/4 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons water
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a bowl and whisk until fully incorporated.
- Store in airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
I didn’t find the link to the sriracha sauce you recommended, could you provide that? Thank you!
Hi Julie, try this one. Enjoy!