Best Store-Bought Yum Yum Sauces [2023]
Yum Yum sauce, the tantalizing blend of savory and sweet, has tantalized taste buds around the world. Its popularity in Japanese teppanyaki restaurants and hibachi grills is undeniable, but finding that perfect store-bought version can be quite the culinary quest.
So, which brand offers the best store-bought Yum Yum sauces? Our personal favorites include options from G Hughes, Terry Ho’s, and June Moon Spice Company. But, as we usually end up doing, we’ve included even more easy-to-find, delicious options!
In this article, we unveil the best store-bought Yum Yum sauces of 2023 that can all be found online as well. Get ready to discover the ultimate condiment that will elevate your home-cooked dishes.
What Is Yum Yum Sauces?
Yum Yum Sauce, often hailed as the “Japanese White Sauce” or “Shrimp Sauce,” is an intriguing and delectable condiment that has captured the hearts and palates of food enthusiasts around the world.
Its journey from Japanese steakhouses to international fame is a fascinating tale of culinary fusion and a testament to the universal love for a creamy, mildly tangy, and slightly sweet accompaniment.
Origins of Yum Yum Sauce
Yum Yum Sauce’s origins can be traced back to the United States rather than Japan, where it became a beloved addition to hibachi-style dining.
The term “hibachi” refers to a traditional Japanese heating device, which is used for grilling and cooking. However, in Western countries, “hibachi” typically refers to the Teppanyaki-style restaurants where skilled chefs entertain diners with theatrical cooking performances on a flat grill.
These hibachi-style restaurants gained immense popularity in the United States during the mid-20th century.
In the 1960s and 1970s, as Japanese cuisine started to make its mark on American culinary culture, a unique phenomenon occurred. Chefs in these hibachi establishments began to experiment with sauces, blending traditional Japanese flavors with American preferences.
Composition and Preparation
Yum Yum Sauce’s recipe is a well-guarded secret in most hibachi restaurants, and while variations exist, the core ingredients remain relatively consistent.
- Mayonnaise: Mayonnaise forms the creamy base of Yum Yum Sauce, contributing to its signature velvety texture. Its rich, slightly tangy flavor serves as the foundation upon which other ingredients build.
- Sugar: To balance the tanginess of the mayo, sugar is added, bestowing a gentle sweetness that distinguishes Yum Yum Sauce from other condiments.
- Rice Vinegar: Rice vinegar introduces a mellow acidity, heightening the complexity of flavors. It complements the sweetness of sugar and enhances the overall balance.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic, minced or grated, infuses the sauce with a robust, savory note. Its pungency is softened during preparation, contributing to the sauce’s distinctive aroma.
- Paprika: Paprika adds depth and a subtle smokiness to Yum Yum Sauce. It also imparts a mild, earthy flavor that rounds out the taste profile.
- Butter or Margarine (optional): Some recipes include a small amount of butter or margarine, contributing to a velvety finish. This element is not universally present but is a welcomed variation.
How Are Yum Yum Sauces Used?
Yum Yum Sauce, with its creamy texture and delightful flavor profile, is a versatile condiment that enhances a wide range of dishes.
Its adaptability makes it a favorite accompaniment in various cuisines. Here’s a closer look at how Yum Yum Sauces are used.
Dipping Sauce
Yum Yum Sauce shines as a dipping sauce for hibachi-style grilled meats and seafood, adding a creamy sweetness that complements the smoky flavors of the grill.
It’s also a perfect match for Asian appetizers like spring rolls, dumplings, and gyoza, enhancing their savory notes.
Additionally, it can elevate classic American sides like fries and tater tots, adding a delightful contrast with its creamy texture and subtle sweetness.
Marinade
Yum Yum Sauce works wonderfully as a marinade for meats and seafood destined for the grill or oven. Its pleasant sweetness imparts flavor and helps retain moisture during cooking.
It’s equally effective for marinating tofu and tempeh, ensuring a crispy, caramelized exterior when roasted or grilled.
Drizzle or Dressing
When used as a salad dressing, Yum Yum Sauce transforms ordinary greens into a creamy, flavor-packed delight. Its creamy consistency coats salad ingredients beautifully.
You can also drizzle it over wraps, sandwiches, or burgers to infuse an extra layer of flavor, particularly complementing chicken and fish sandwiches.
Stir-Fry and Noodle Dishes
In stir-fry dishes, Yum Yum Sauce contributes a creamy, sweet-savory sauce that complements vegetables, tofu, and meats. When incorporated into Asian noodle dishes like udon or soba, it provides a delectable, flavor-rich sauce.
Sushi and Sashimi
Yum Yum Sauce is a sought-after accompaniment for sushi rolls, either drizzled on top or used as a dipping sauce. Its creamy, mildly tangy profile complements the flavors of sushi beautifully.
Roasted Vegetables
Tossing Yum Yum Sauce with roasted vegetables creates a creamy, slightly sweet glaze that enhances the natural flavors of the produce.
How to Choose the Best Store-Bought Yum Yum Sauce
Selecting the best store-bought Yum Yum Sauce can elevate your dining experience. Here are key factors to consider when making your choice:
Ingredients
When choosing Yum Yum Sauce, prioritize those made from high-quality ingredients.
Authentic flavor often comes from real mayonnaise, which gives the sauce its creamy base. Additionally, look for sauces that incorporate real tomato paste and a blend of spices.
This ensures a richer, more genuine taste compared to products that rely heavily on artificial flavorings and fillers.
Consistency
The texture of Yum Yum Sauce is crucial to its versatility. Seek a sauce with a creamy and slightly thick consistency. This ideal texture allows you to drizzle it smoothly over dishes like sushi rolls, grilled meats, or salads.
Furthermore, it should be thick enough to use as a dip without being overly runny, ensuring it clings to your food.
On the flip side, avoid sauces that are excessively runny, as they may not adhere well to your dishes, or those that are overly thick, which can make it challenging to pour or spread.
Flavor Profile
Yum Yum Sauces come in a range of flavor profiles, particularly in terms of sweetness and tanginess.
Some individuals prefer a sweeter sauce, while others lean toward a more tangy flavor.
Assess your personal preference for this balance of sweet and tangy notes and select a Yum Yum Sauce that aligns with your taste buds.
Allergens
If you have dietary restrictions or allergies, it’s crucial to inspect the ingredient list for potential allergens. Yum Yum Sauces may contain ingredients like soy, gluten, or dairy, which can be problematic for individuals with sensitivities.
Certifications
If specific dietary preferences or requirements matter to you, look for Yum Yum Sauces with relevant certifications.
These certifications could include non-GMO, gluten-free, or organic labels. These designations ensure that the sauce meets certain standards that align with your dietary values.
Spice Level
Spice level is another important factor to consider when selecting Yum Yum Sauce.
Some sauces are milder, while others may have a hint of spiciness. Determine your preference for heat and choose a sauce that matches your desired spice level.
Some products even specify their spice intensity on the label, making it easier to select the right one for your palate.
Price
Finally, compare prices and serving sizes to ensure you’re getting good value for your money. Yum Yum Sauces come in various sizes, and prices can vary. Evaluate the cost per ounce or per serving to make an informed decision.
While budget-friendly options are appealing, remember that quality often comes at a slightly higher price. Balancing affordability with quality is key.
Best Store-Bought Yum Yum Sauces [2023]
Without further ado, let’s dive into the best store-bought Yum Yum sauces of 2023. These are all readily available online and in most chain grocery stores.
| Rank | Product | Key Feature |
| 1. | G Hughes Sugar-Free Yum Yum Sauce | G Hughes Sugar-Free Yum Yum Sauce is a health-conscious delight. Always sugar-free and gluten-free, with just 1 carb per serving, it offers sweet and tangy flavor, perfect for versatile culinary creations. |
| 2. | Terry Ho’s Yum Yum Sauce – Spicy | Terry Ho’s Yum Yum Sauce Spicy is a flavorful, health-conscious mayo-based steak sauce, perfect for elevating various dishes. It’s travel-ready, peanut-free, and a versatile addition to gourmet meals. |
| 3. | June Moon Spice Company Yum Yum Sauce | June Moon Spice Company’s Yum Yum Sauce is a versatile and addictive condiment that elevates various dishes. Savory and sweet, it’s perfect for hibachi, sushi, wings, and more. Freshness sealed for premium taste. |
| 4. | Bibibop Asian Grill Yum Yum Sauce | Bibibop Asian Grill’s Yum Yum Sauce is a mild, tangy, gluten-free delight with soybean oil, vinegar, egg yolk, and red jalapeno peppers, perfect for dipping and adding flavor. |
| 5. | Chen Out of Ten Original Yum Yum Sauce | Chen Out of Ten’s Original Yum Yum Sauce is a premium, versatile masterpiece of flavor, loved by customers for its restaurant-quality taste and high-quality ingredients. Perfect for elevating home cooking. |
1. G Hughes Sugar-Free Yum Yum Sauce
G Hughes Sugar-Free Yum Yum Sauce is a revelation for those seeking a flavorful yet health-conscious sauce. This product doesn’t just dance on your taste buds; it waltzes in with a promise of guilt-free indulgence.
First and foremost, let’s applaud the fact that it’s always sugar-free. Yes, you read that right. In a world where sugar seems to sneak into almost everything, G Hughes takes a stand to deliver a truly savory delight that won’t spike your glucose levels.
Moreover, this Yum Yum Sauce proudly wears the label of being gluten-free. That means you can savor its beautifully crafted flavor without worrying about any post-meal fatigue or stomach discomfort.
But it’s not just about what’s absent; it’s about what’s present. Each serving of this low-carb sauce clocks in at just 1 carb per serving.
If you’re following a keto diet, you’ll be thrilled to know that this Yum Yum Sauce is keto-friendly as well.
It boasts a sweet and tangy flavor that elevates any dish it graces. Imagine it as the secret sauce for your burgers or a dressing that turns a simple salad into a culinary masterpiece. It’s versatile, delightful, and destined to become a kitchen staple.
Whether you’re dipping veggies, dressing salads, or creating your unique burger bowls, the G Hughes Sugar-Free Yum Yum Sauce is your culinary companion, ready to add that perfect zing to your meals.
With a generous shelf life and hassle-free online availability, you can savor it without worry.
2. Terry Ho’s Yum Yum Sauce – Spicy
Terry Ho’s Spicy Yum Yum Sauce is a culinary masterpiece. Bursting with flavor, this mayo-based steak sauce combines the richness of tomato, the smokiness of paprika, and a subtle vinegar tang, among other spices.
It’s the perfect accompaniment to elevate dishes like burgers, shrimp, pork, and vegetables to gourmet levels.
What sets this Yum Yum sauce apart is its commitment to healthiness. Crafted from pure, naturally grown ingredients, it’s devoid of artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives, ensuring a safe and wholesome dining experience.
The convenient squeeze bottle, designed with an easy-to-open flip cap, makes this sauce travel-ready as well. Whether you’re having a picnic or a fancy dinner at home, Terry Ho’s Yum Yum sauce is your trusty companion.
For those with peanut allergies, here’s some good news: this gourmet steak sauce is peanut-free, opening up a world of culinary possibilities without worry.
This versatile sauce isn’t just for dipping; it’s also a delightful addition to dishes like fried rice, sushi, and even a burger sauce. Terry Ho’s Yum Yum Sauce Spicy is your passport to a world of flavor, all in one bottle.
3. June Moon Spice Company Yum Yum Sauce
June Moon Spice Company’s Yum Yum Sauce is the secret to bringing the flavors of a premium Japanese steakhouse into your kitchen.
This addictive sauce strikes a perfect balance between savory and sweet, with a creamy, tangy twist that keeps you coming back for more. It’s not just a finishing touch; it’s an experience in itself.
A double freshness seal locks in the flavors immediately after blending, preserving its premium taste and zest. The sturdy 12 fl. oz. The BPA-free bottle comes with a reusable screw flavor lock top, ensuring that each drop bursts with flavor.
It is also crafted in small batches with farm-fresh ingredients, which embodies the premium difference you’ll savor with every bite.
4. Bibibop Asian Grill Yum Yum Sauce
Bibibop Asian Grill’s Yum Yum Sauce is a culinary delight that combines mild, tangy, and delicious flavors. The balance of savory and sweet, with a hint of spice, makes it a go-to choice for those seeking a culinary adventure.
This gluten-free sauce is crafted with quality ingredients like soybean oil, distilled vinegar, egg yolk, soy sauce, and a blend of spices, it embodies the essence of South Korean cuisine.
Imagine drizzling it over your Bibimbap or using it as a dipping sauce for fresh vegetables, sushi, or grilled meats.
Whether you’re a fan of Korean or Japanese cuisine or just looking to enhance your dishes, Bibibop Asian Grill’s Yum Yum Sauce is a must-try.
5. Chen Out of Ten Original Yum Yum Sauce
Chen Out of Ten’s Original Yum Yum Sauce is an extraordinary creation that transcends the ordinary. Born from a relentless pursuit of perfection, this sauce is the culmination of hundreds of iterations, resulting in a masterpiece of flavor.
What sets this Yum Yum sauce apart is its quality. The ingredients used are of the highest caliber, mirroring those employed in their renowned restaurant. This dedication to excellence guarantees an unmatched taste experience.
Versatility is where this sauce truly shines. Customers enthusiastically declare that it complements everything in their culinary repertoire – from rice to meats, salads, sandwiches, and more. The possibilities are as boundless as your imagination.
Every aspect of this sauce exudes quality, from its eco-friendly glass bottles to its meticulously sourced ingredients.
When you seek to elevate your culinary creations to the next level, Chen Out of Ten’s Original Yum Yum Sauce is your indispensable ally.
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