Vegan Yum Yum Sauce Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide

Updated On: September 30, 2025

If you’re a fan of bold, creamy sauces that add a burst of flavor to any dish, then vegan yum yum sauce is about to become your new favorite condiment. Originally a staple in Japanese steakhouses, this tangy, slightly sweet, and mildly spicy sauce has been winning hearts worldwide.

The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make at home, and this vegan version is just as luscious and versatile as the original.

Whether you’re drizzling it over roasted veggies, dipping your favorite vegan sushi, or using it as a spread in sandwiches, this sauce elevates any meal effortlessly.

In this recipe, I’ll guide you through every step with simple, plant-based ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Plus, I’ll share tips on customizing the flavors to suit your taste buds and ideas for serving it up in exciting ways.

Ready to embark on this flavor adventure? Let’s dive right in and whip up some irresistibly creamy vegan yum yum sauce!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan yum yum sauce is a game-changer for anyone who loves rich, flavorful sauces without any animal products. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with it:

  • Simple Ingredients: Made with everyday pantry staples like vegan mayo, tomato paste, and a touch of sweetness.
  • Versatile: Perfect as a dip, drizzle, or spread for a variety of dishes including grilled veggies, tofu, and even fries.
  • Easy to Customize: Adjust the spice and sweetness levels easily to match your preference.
  • Quick to Make: Ready in under 10 minutes with no cooking required.
  • Long Shelf Life: Keeps well in the fridge for up to a week, so you can use it throughout the week.

Ingredients

Ingredient Quantity Notes
Vegan mayonnaise 1/2 cup Use your favorite brand or homemade
Tomato paste 2 tablespoons For color and tang
Apple cider vinegar 1 tablespoon Adds a pleasant acidity
Maple syrup 1 tablespoon Natural sweetener
Garlic powder 1 teaspoon Enhances flavor
Onion powder 1 teaspoon Balances taste
Smoked paprika 1/2 teaspoon Optional, adds smokiness
Ground cayenne pepper 1/4 teaspoon Adjust for heat preference
Water 1 to 2 tablespoons To adjust consistency
Salt To taste Enhances all flavors

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk or fork
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Small spatula or spoon
  • Storage container or jar with lid

Instructions

  1. Combine the vegan mayonnaise and tomato paste: In your mixing bowl, add 1/2 cup of vegan mayo and 2 tablespoons of tomato paste. Whisk them together until the mixture is smooth and evenly colored.
  2. Add the apple cider vinegar and maple syrup: Pour in 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar and 1 tablespoon of maple syrup. These ingredients balance the tanginess and sweetness.
  3. Season the sauce: Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for smokiness), and 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper. Stir well to combine.
  4. Adjust the consistency: Add 1 to 2 tablespoons of water gradually, whisking after each addition until you reach your desired sauce consistency. It should be thick but pourable.
  5. Taste and season: Add salt to taste and adjust any other seasonings as desired. If you want it sweeter, add a little more maple syrup; for more tang, add a dash more vinegar.
  6. Refrigerate: Transfer the sauce to a jar or airtight container. Let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
  7. Serve and enjoy: Use your vegan yum yum sauce as a dip, drizzle, or spread to elevate your meals.

Tips & Variations

“For a soy-free version, be sure to use a soy-free vegan mayo, and you can substitute the apple cider vinegar with rice vinegar for a milder tang.”

You can easily tweak this sauce to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some ideas:

  • Spice it up: Add more cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce if you love heat.
  • Make it smoky: Increase the smoked paprika or add a pinch of liquid smoke for an intense smoky flavor.
  • Use different sweeteners: Swap maple syrup with agave nectar, date syrup, or coconut sugar.
  • Add herbs: Fresh chopped chives or cilantro can add a fresh twist.
  • Make it garlicky: Use fresh minced garlic instead of powder for more punch.

Remember, the key to perfect yum yum sauce is balancing sweetness, tang, and spice to your liking.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per 2 tbsp
Calories 90
Total Fat 9g
Saturated Fat 1g
Carbohydrates 2g
Sugars 1.5g
Protein 0g
Sodium 150mg

Serving Suggestions

The beauty of vegan yum yum sauce lies in its versatility. Here are some delicious ways to enjoy it:

  • As a dip: Pair it with crispy tofu nuggets, spring rolls, vegetable tempura, or steamed edamame for a tasty appetizer.
  • Drizzle over bowls: Add a creamy kick to grain bowls or Buddha bowls loaded with roasted veggies and tofu.
  • Sandwich spread: Use it on vegan sandwiches, wraps, or burgers for an added burst of flavor.
  • Salad dressing: Thin with a bit more water or vinegar and drizzle over crisp salads for a unique dressing option.
  • French fry companion: Swap ketchup for this sauce to dip your baked or air-fried fries.

For more creative vegan sauces to try, check out our Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes or our Lipton Vegetable Dip Recipe: Easy Party Favorite. If you love exploring vegetable-packed meals, you might also enjoy Peruvian Vegetable Recipes for Flavorful Healthy Meals.

Conclusion

Making your own vegan yum yum sauce is a fantastic way to enhance your meals with a rich, creamy, and flavorful condiment that’s entirely plant-based. This recipe is not only quick and easy but also highly adaptable to your taste preferences.

Whether you want it spicy, smoky, or a little sweeter, the customizable nature of this sauce means it can become a staple in your kitchen.

With just a handful of simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a sauce that elevates everything from snacks to main dishes. Plus, it fits perfectly into a vegan lifestyle without compromising on taste or texture.

Once you try this, you might find yourself reaching for it every day!

Don’t forget to experiment and pair it with your favorite dishes, and if you enjoy this recipe, be sure to explore more of our delicious vegan creations. Happy cooking and enjoy your new favorite sauce!

📖 Recipe Card: Vegan Yum Yum Sauce

Description: A creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet sauce perfect for dipping or drizzling. This vegan version uses plant-based ingredients for a deliciously rich flavor.

Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT0M
Total Time: PT10M

Servings: 1 cup

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup vegan mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons water (to thin)

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, combine vegan mayonnaise and tomato paste.
  2. Add rice vinegar and maple syrup, then mix well.
  3. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and salt.
  4. Add water gradually to reach desired consistency.
  5. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
  6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving for best flavor.

Nutrition: Calories: 90 | Protein: 0.5g | Fat: 8g | Carbs: 4g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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