Cream Shrimp (크림새우): what it is and how to order it in Korea
Crisp fried shrimp tossed in a sweet, creamy mayonnaise-based sauce, often with candied walnuts or fruit. It is a classic of Korean-Chinese restaurants and a favorite for visitors who want something mild and sweet.
Say it to order
크림새우 하나 주세요
Keurimsaeu hana juseyo
Quick facts
How to eat it
Pick up the shrimp with chopsticks and eat them whole or pull off the shell as you go. Eat them while the coating is still crisp, and use a piece of rice or a bite of fried rice to mop up the extra sauce.
Do
- Put shells on the side of your plate rather than on the table.
- Use serving chopsticks to move shrimp onto your own plate.
Don’t
- Don't take the last shrimp without offering it to others first.
- Don't dip the shrimp into extra sauce from the serving dish with your own chopsticks.
Local tips
- Walnuts may be candied or fruit may be added, so check the menu if you have nut allergies.
- Ask for a smaller portion if you are ordering alone, since it is usually served as a shared dish.
Goes with
- Beer
- Tangsuyuk
- Stir-fried vegetables
- Steamed rice
- Fried rice
Where to try it in Seoul
Questions
- How do you order Cream Shrimp in Korean?
- Say “크림새우 하나 주세요” (Keurimsaeu hana juseyo).
- Is Cream Shrimp spicy?
- No. Cream Shrimp isn’t spicy.
- How much does Cream Shrimp cost in Korea?
- Usually ₩16,000–28,000.
- How do you eat Cream Shrimp?
- Pick up the shrimp with chopsticks and eat them whole or pull off the shell as you go. Eat them while the coating is still crisp, and use a piece of rice or a bite of fried rice to mop up the extra sauce.
Find Cream Shrimp near you
Jinjja shows real local places, what to order and how to say it — in your language.