If you’re on a ketogenic diet and craving a creamy, tangy sauce to brighten up your meals, look no further than this keto yum yum sauce recipe. Yum yum sauce, originally popularized in Japanese steakhouses, is a versatile condiment known for its rich, slightly sweet, and savory flavor profile.
The best part? This keto-friendly version swaps out high-carb ingredients without sacrificing any of the deliciousness.
Whether you’re dipping grilled shrimp, drizzling it over low-carb vegetables, or pairing it with chicken, this sauce will add a burst of flavor that fits perfectly into your keto lifestyle.
This homemade yum yum sauce is not only quick and easy to prepare but also made with wholesome ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. It’s creamy, tangy, and just slightly sweetened using keto-approved sweeteners, making it a guilt-free indulgence.
Get ready to elevate your meals with this flavorful sauce that’s sure to become a keto staple in your kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This keto yum yum sauce is a game-changer for anyone following a low-carb or ketogenic diet. It perfectly balances creamy and tangy flavors with a hint of sweetness, all without the sugar and carbs found in traditional versions.
Here’s why it’s a must-try:
- Low-carb and keto-friendly: Made without sugar or starchy ingredients, keeping your macros in check.
- Simple and quick: Ready in under 10 minutes with minimal prep and no cooking required.
- Versatile: Use it as a dipping sauce, salad dressing, or drizzle over grilled meats and veggies.
- Deliciously creamy: Achieves the perfect texture using mayo and sour cream for richness.
- Customizable: Easily tweak ingredients to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (use full-fat for best keto results)
- 2 tablespoons sour cream (adds creaminess and tang)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste (for color and subtle sweetness)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or white vinegar)
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (adds richness)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon erythritol (or preferred keto-friendly sweetener)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky depth)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Water as needed (to thin the sauce to your preferred consistency)
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk or fork
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Small spatula (optional)
- Storage container or jar with lid
Instructions
- Combine the base ingredients: In a mixing bowl, add 1/2 cup mayonnaise and 2 tablespoons sour cream. These ingredients form the creamy base of your yum yum sauce.
- Add the tomato paste: Stir in 1 tablespoon tomato paste, which gives the sauce its signature pink hue and subtle sweetness.
- Mix in the vinegar and melted butter: Add 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar and 1 tablespoon melted butter. These ingredients add tanginess and richness.
- Season the sauce: Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 tablespoon erythritol, and 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Whisk until smooth: Use a whisk or fork to combine all ingredients thoroughly. The sauce should be creamy and well blended.
- Adjust consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add water one teaspoon at a time until you reach your desired thickness. The sauce should be pourable but still creamy.
- Chill: For best flavor, cover and refrigerate the yum yum sauce for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Serve: Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week.
Tips & Variations
“For a spicier kick, add a teaspoon of sriracha or a pinch of cayenne pepper. For a dairy-free version, substitute sour cream with coconut cream and use vegan mayonnaise.”
- Sweetener options: You can replace erythritol with monk fruit sweetener or stevia, adjusting to taste.
- Smoky flavor: Add a dash more smoked paprika or a few drops of liquid smoke for a deeper smoky undertone.
- Herb infusion: Try adding finely chopped fresh herbs like chives or parsley for a fresh twist.
- Thicker sauce: Omit the water if you prefer a dipping sauce with more body.
- Storage tip: Always store in a sealed container in the refrigerator; it stays fresh for up to seven days.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per 2 tbsp |
---|---|
Calories | 110 kcal |
Fat | 11 g |
Carbohydrates | 1 g |
Fiber | 0 g |
Net Carbs | 1 g |
Protein | 0.5 g |
Sugar | 0 g (from sweetener only) |
Serving Suggestions
This keto yum yum sauce is incredibly versatile and pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Here are some ideas to get you started:
- Grilled or pan-seared chicken: Drizzle over chicken thighs or breasts for an extra flavor boost.
- Low-carb vegetables: Use as a dip for raw or roasted veggies like cauliflower, zucchini, or bell peppers.
- Sushi bowls: Enhance your keto sushi bowl by adding a generous dollop of yum yum sauce.
- Seafood: Perfect with grilled shrimp, crab cakes, or baked salmon.
- Lettuce wraps or keto sandwiches: Spread inside lettuce wraps or keto bread for a creamy, tangy layer.
Conclusion
This keto yum yum sauce recipe is a flavorful and satisfying addition to your low-carb meal repertoire. Its creamy texture, balanced tanginess, and subtle sweetness make it a fantastic condiment that complements a wide range of dishes.
Best of all, it’s quick to make with simple ingredients you likely have on hand. Whether you’re enjoying grilled meats, fresh veggies, or keto-friendly bowls, this sauce will add an indulgent touch without compromising your dietary goals.
Experiment with the variations and tailor it to your liking, and you’ll find this sauce becoming a kitchen staple. Don’t forget to check out other delicious keto recipes like Creamy Keto Garlic Butter Shrimp, Low-Carb Cauliflower Fried Rice, and Keto Buffalo Chicken Meatballs to complete your meals with tasty, healthy options!
📖 Recipe Card: Keto Yum Yum Sauce
Description: A creamy, tangy sauce perfect for dipping or drizzling over keto-friendly dishes. Easy to make with simple ingredients and low in carbs.
Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT0M
Total Time: PT10M
Servings: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon erythritol
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 tablespoon water (optional, to thin)
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine mayonnaise and melted butter.
- Add tomato paste and apple cider vinegar; mix well.
- Stir in garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, erythritol, and cayenne pepper.
- Whisk until smooth and creamy.
- Add water if needed to reach desired consistency.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 90 | Protein: 0.2g | Fat: 10g | Carbs: 0.5g
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