Nuri korean bbq

Saewoo Twigim, also known as Korean Fried Shrimp, is one of the most beloved dishes in Korean street food culture. With its perfectly golden crust, juicy shrimp center, and savoury soy dipping sauce, this dish delivers the ideal combination of crunch, flavor, and comfort. Whether enjoyed as a street snack, restaurant appetizer, or a side dish at a Korean BBQ, Saewoo Twigim is a must-try for anyone who loves seafood with a crispy twist.

What Is Saewoo Twigim?

In Korean, “Saewoo” means shrimp and “Twigim” means deep-fried. Together, they describe one of Korea’s most popular fried delicacies. This dish features fresh shrimp coated in a light, airy batter and fried until golden brown. Unlike Western-style fried shrimp, Korean Twigim batter is thinner and crispier, often made with ice-cold water and flour for that signature crunch.

Saewoo Twigim is commonly served with a tangy soy-based dipping sauce that balances the richness of the fried coating with a hint of acidity and sweetness. The result? A flavour explosion that keeps you coming back for more.

The Origins of Saewoo Twigim

Saewoo Twigim has its roots in Korea’s vibrant street food markets, known as “pojangmacha.” It is a staple of traditional Korean snack culture and is often enjoyed alongside tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) for the ultimate street food combo. Over time, this simple dish made its way into modern restaurants and upscale Korean eateries, where it’s now served as an elegant appetizer or shared plate.

How It’s Made

The key to perfect Saewoo Twigim lies in the batter and frying technique:

Fresh Shrimp – Cleaned, deveined, and lightly seasoned.

Cold Batter – A mixture of flour, starch, and ice-cold water ensures maximum crispiness.

Quick Frying – Shrimp are deep-fried until the coating turns golden and crunchy, while the inside stays juicy.

Dipping Sauce – Usually made with soy sauce, vinegar, sesame oil, and a touch of sugar or chili for balance.

This simple method creates a texture contrast that defines great Saewoo Twigim — crispy outside, tender inside.

Why People Love Saewoo Twigim

There’s something universally satisfying about biting into a piece of perfectly fried shrimp. For Koreans and global foodies alike, Saewoo Twigim offers:

A light, non-greasy texture compared to heavy tempura.

Bold, umami flavours enhanced by the dipping sauce.

A versatile dish that pairs well with beer, soju, or other Korean comfort foods.

A visual appeal — beautifully golden shrimp that looks as good as it tastes.

Where to Try Saewoo Twigim

You can find Saewoo Twigim in:

Traditional Korean street markets and snack stalls.

Korean BBQ and seafood restaurants.

Fusion Asian eateries that serve Korean-inspired small plates.

In London, for example, authentic restaurants like Nuri Korean BBQ and similar venues often feature Saewoo Twigim as part of their appetizer or shared menu options.