How to Make Shrimp Ssam: A Korean-Inspired Lettuce Wrap Feast
Juicy seafood, crisp greens, and vibrant sauces unite in a sociable, flavor-packed meal.
Shrimp Ssam: A Korean Lettuce Wrap Experience
Ssam is the heart of a Korean-style wrap meal, where fresh greens become edible vessels for an irresistible mix of proteins, sauces, and sides. While pork belly and beef are popular ssam fillings, shrimp ssam offers a lighter, fresher twist that’s perfect for warmer months, seafood lovers, or anyone seeking a bold, hands-on meal loaded with contrasting textures and flavors. This article explores the art of shrimp ssam, from choosing your shrimp to crafting the perfect sauces and accompaniments.
What Is Ssam?
In Korean cuisine, ssam (meaning “wrap”) refers to meals centered around wrapping flavorful fillings—usually grilled meat, seafood, or tofu—in leafy greens. Essential condiments such as ssamjang (a spicy-sweet bean paste sauce), rice, kimchi, and a spectrum of banchan (side dishes) complete the spread, making it both communal and endlessly customizable.
Why Shrimp for Ssam?
- Lighter alternative: Shrimp cooks quickly and brings freshness that pairs perfectly with crisp lettuce.
- Absorbs flavors: Its mildly sweet flavor highlights the punchy sauces and marinades.
- Easy to serve: Shrimp is naturally portioned and simple to assemble in wraps.
Choosing and Preparing the Shrimp
The success of shrimp ssam hinges on good-quality shrimp paired with a robust marinade. Look for large or extra-large raw shrimp, preferably shell-on for better flavor and juiciness. Whether you buy fresh or thaw frozen, focus on firm, moist, translucent flesh and a clean, oceany aroma.
- Shell on or off: Shell-on shrimp are juicier and less prone to overcooking but require extra peeling work at the table. Peeled shrimp offer easier eating for wraps.
- Marinating: A marinade that balances soy, garlic, and sweetness penetrates shrimp quickly due to their delicate texture. Even a short 20-30 minute marinate enlivens the flavor.
- Skewering: Thread shrimp onto skewers or grill baskets to keep them from falling through grates and to turn them efficiently.
- Grilling tips: Grill over high heat just until opaque and lightly charred. Shrimp cook fast—usually 2 to 3 minutes per side—so watch closely.
The Essential Sauces: Ssamjang and Punchy Garnishes
A standout feature of ssam is the partner sauces, which elevate every wrap. The essential options for shrimp ssam include:
- Ssamjang: A thick, spicy-sweet paste made with doenjang (fermented soybean paste), gochujang (Korean chili paste), garlic, sesame oil, and sometimes honey or chopped nuts. It offers savory depth and heat.
- Herb vinaigrette: Many modern Korean restaurants pair seafood with a tangy, aromatic sauce featuring cilantro, basil, scallions, citrus juice, and rice vinegar for freshness that sings against rich sauces and grilled shrimp.
- Pickled or raw toppings: Raw scallions, slivered garlic, or briefly pickled veggies (think radish, carrot, or cucumber) cut through the richness and add crunch.
How to Make Classic Ssamjang
- 3 Tbsp doenjang (Korean fermented soybean paste)
- 1 Tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 1 Tbsp toasted sesame oil
- 2-3 tsp honey or sugar
- 2 tsp roasted sesame seeds, crushed
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 scallion, finely sliced
- *Optional:* 1 Tbsp chopped toasted nuts for richness
Mix all ingredients in a bowl until smooth. Adjust seasonings to taste with more honey, chili, or sesame as needed.
Bright Herb Vinaigrette for Shrimp Ssam
- 2 Tbsp rice vinegar
- 2 Tbsp fresh lime juice
- 1/4 cup neutral oil (such as canola or grapeseed)
- 1 Tbsp toasted sesame oil
- 1 Tbsp soy sauce
- 1 Tbsp honey or sugar
- 2 Tbsp each: chopped cilantro, basil, scallions
- 1 finely sliced chili or 1/2 tsp gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
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Whisk all ingredients together. Taste and adjust acidity, sweetness, or heat to balance the shrimp and other fixings.
Fresh Greens: The Foundation of Every Ssam
Wraps can be made from a variety of leafy greens, each bringing its own crunch and flavor. The most common choices include:
- Red or green leaf lettuce: Soft yet sturdy, with a mild, grassy flavor.
- Butterhead lettuce (Boston or Bibb): Tender and pliable, forms a natural cup for fillings.
- Perilla leaves: Broad, slightly fuzzy, and citrusy-minty—a classic in Korean ssam.
- Cabbage leaves: Either raw or blanched for strength and a slightly bitter edge.
Always wash and dry leaves thoroughly and serve whole for easy wrapping.
Classic and Modern Ssam Accompaniments
Ssam is designed for an abundant, varied feast, with rice, kimchi, and side banchan enhancing each wrap. For shrimp ssam, try these accompaniments:
- Steamed white rice: Soaks up juices and provides satisfying substance.
- Kimchi: Napa cabbage or radish kimchi delivers bracing acidity and spice.
- Fresh herbs: Cilantro, mint, and Thai basil offer aromatic freshness.
- Vegetable salads: Quick cucumber, carrot, or radish salads add brightness.
- Slivered raw garlic or chili: For heat and bite in each wrap.
Step-by-Step: Building the Perfect Shrimp Ssam
- Place a piece of lettuce or perilla leaf in your palm.
- Add a small mound of rice.
- Top with a grilled shrimp (or two, if using large leaves).
- Drizzle with ssamjang and/or herb vinaigrette.
- Add kimchi, fresh herbs, and any pickled or raw garnishes.
- Fold up the bottom and sides to enclose. Eat in one or two bites for a perfect flavor explosion!
Creative Variations
While classic shrimp ssam delivers plenty of flavor, don’t hesitate to adapt the meal to your preferences or what’s at hand:
- Spicy broiled shrimp: Toss with gochugaru or Szechuan pepper for a fiery kick.
- Citrus-marinated shrimp: Marinate in lime and grapefruit for tangy brightness.
- Fusion fillings: Add sliced avocado, quick pickled onions, or roasted peanuts.
- Vegetarian ssam: Substitute grilled tofu or mushrooms for the shrimp and serve with the same sauces and garnishes.
Tips for the Ultimate Ssam Table
- Prep in advance: Marinate shrimp and make sauces ahead for easy assembly at the table.
- Allow guests to build their own: Place all elements in communal dishes for a fun, customizable experience.
- Mix and match: Encourage creative combinations and experimentation among friends and family.
- Go heavy on the vegetables: Crisp, chilled greens refresh the palate and highlight the punchy flavors.
Nutritional Considerations
- Gluten-free adaptation: Use tamari or wheat-free soy sauce in the vinaigrette and ssamjang.
- Lower carb: Skip or reduce rice and focus on protein, greens, and vegetables.
- Allergen awareness: Nuts in ssamjang are optional; leave out for nut allergies.
Table: Core Components of Shrimp Ssam
| Component | Description & Choices |
|---|---|
| Shrimp | Large or extra-large; marinated, grilled or broiled |
| Wrap Greens | Lettuce, perilla leaves, cabbage |
| Sauces | Ssamjang (classic), herb vinaigrette, optional chili sauce |
| Accompaniments | Steamed rice, kimchi, raw garlic, herbs, pickled veggies |
| Garnishes | Cilantro, mint, sliced chili, scallions |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What shrimp sizes work best for ssam?
Large (21–25 count per pound) or extra-large (16–20 count per pound) shrimp are ideal. They are meaty enough for grilling and easy to wrap. Smaller shrimp may fall apart or get lost in the wrap.
Can I substitute other proteins?
Absolutely—ssam is endlessly adaptable. Pork belly, grilled beef, tofu, or portobello mushrooms all work beautifully as wrap fillings.
How spicy is ssamjang?
Ssamjang has a mild to moderate heat level depending on how much gochujang you use. Adjust by adding more or less chili paste, or even a squeeze of sriracha for extra kick.
What’s the key to great shrimp flavor?
A good marinade, quick grilling over high heat, and serving immediately so the shrimp stays juicy. Don’t overcook—shrimp should be just opaque all the way through.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Shrimp can be marinated a few hours ahead, and all sauces and greens can be prepped in advance. For best texture, grill shrimp just before serving and keep all assembly components chilled until ready to eat.
Final Thoughts
Shrimp ssam is a celebration of contrast—fiery, cool, crunchy, and juicy, all wrapped up into a customizable, interactive meal. Whether you’re looking for a lighter take on Korean wraps or an adventurous new way to share dinner, shrimp ssam brings bold, fresh flavor to your table. Gather friends, offer plenty of greens and garnishes, and let everyone explore their favorite combinations for an unforgettable feast.
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