This homemade Mumbo Sauce Recipe, aka “mambo sauce,” is a flavorful, D.C.-style wing sauce made with ketchup, pineapple juice, vinegar, sugar, soy sauce, and hot sauce. A staple in Chinese take-out restaurants, It’s the perfect blend of sweet, spicy, and tangy, and it couldn’t be easier to make!
Today we’re making homemade mumbo sauce! If you haven’t spent time in Washington, D.C., you may not be familiar with this iconic sweet, tangy, and spicy dipping sauce popularized by city’s takeout food scene. Don’t worry, you’ll love it. Especially if you love things like chicken wings, fries, or anything else fried and crispy because that is what this sauce is made for!
What is Mumbo Sauce?
Mumbo sauce (sometimes spelled “mambo sauce”) is a popular condiment/dipping sauce from Washington, DC. The sauce is typically made with ketchup, vinegar, sugar, and hot sauce, but varies from place to place in sweetness, thickness, and spice level. It’s often considered a fusion of barbecue sauce and sweet-and-sour sauce, but with a distinct flavor that’s all its own. The exact origins are somewhat debated – some trace it back to a Chicago barbecue chain – the version that gained fame in D.C. is still widely used today and a must-try for anyone who loves bold, punchy flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions
It’s mildly spicy, but the heat level is very adjustable. Add more hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne if you like it hotter.
The closest substitute for Frank’s RedHot is Crystal Hot Sauce, which has a similar vinegar-forward, mildly spicy flavor profile. Other good alternatives are Louisiana Hot Sauce, Texas Pete, and Tabasco.
Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, it will keep for 2-3 weeks. Shake or stir before using.
RECIPE CARD
Mumbo Sauce Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup ketchup
- ½ cup pure pineapple juice
- ½ cup granulated sugar - or brown sugar
- ½ cup white vinegar - or apple cider vinegar
- ¼ cup soy sauce - OK to substitute with tamari or GF soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Frank's RedHot Sauce - or Crystal Hot Sauce, Louisiana Hot Sauce, Texas Pete, or Tabasco
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to a medium saucepan and whisk to combine.
- Set over medium heat and bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Whisk again and let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes, or until thickened to your preference.
- Serve warm, or let the sauce cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for 2-3 weeks.
Jessica’s Notes
Nutritional Information
(Nutrition information provided is an estimate and will vary based on cooking methods and specific brands of ingredients used.)
Variations
You’ll find countless versions of mumbo sauce – this just happens to be my favorite. I highly recommend playing with the ingredient ratios to suit your taste. Whether you like it spicier, smokier, or a little more tangy, here are a few simple ways to switch things up.
- Spicier: Add 1/4–1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or increase the hot sauce to taste). A splash of sriracha will also add heat (plus a garlicky kick).
- Smokier: Double the smoked paprika or add a dash of liquid smoke for that deep, barbecue-like aroma.
- Extra umami: Add 1-2 teaspoons of Worcestershire sauce if you want a slightly more savory, barbecue-like flavor.
- Gluten-Free: Swap soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos to make it gluten-free without losing that umami depth.
How to Use Mumbo Sauce
Mumbo sauce is incredibly versatile and adds bold, sweet-and-tangy flavor to just about anything fried, grilled, or roasted. Traditionally served with fried chicken wings and fries in Washington, D.C. carryouts, it also pairs perfectly with Southern favorites. Try it drizzled over crispy chicken wings, sweet potato fries, or fried okra, or use it as a dipping sauce for buttermilk fried chicken tenders. It’s also delicious with fried shrimp, grilled chicken, or even as a spread for sandwiches and burgers. For more delicious ideas, be sure to check out my collection of 25+ Best Southern Recipes.
If you love this mumbo sauce recipe, be sure to check out some of my other bold and flavorful dipping sauces! Try my sweet and tangy Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce, creamy and spicy Comeback Sauce, fan-favorite Copycat Chick-fil-A Sauce, or fiery Nashville Hot Sauce. Each one is easy to make and perfect for dipping, drizzling, or spreading on your favorite takeout-style fried foods.
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