Honey Walnut Shrimp

Honey Walnut Shrimp is a beloved Chinese-American dish known for its irresistible combination of crispy shrimp, sweet honey sauce, and caramelized walnuts. A popular item at many Chinese restaurants, it strikes the perfect balance between sweet, savory, and nutty flavors. This dish features succulent shrimp coated in a light batter, fried to golden perfection, and tossed in a creamy, honey-based sauce. Garnished with candied walnuts, Honey Walnut Shrimp is as visually appealing as it is delicious. Whether served at a family dinner, a festive gathering, or a casual meal, this recipe elevates any occasion with its elegant flavors and textures.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Combines crispy shrimp, a creamy honey sauce, and crunchy walnuts for a perfect blend of textures and flavors.
• A restaurant-quality dish you can easily make at home.
• Versatile enough to be served as an appetizer, main course, or party centerpiece.
• Customizable with spice adjustments, nut alternatives, or additional garnishes.
• Kid-friendly yet sophisticated enough for adult palates.
• Quick to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or special celebrations.
• Looks impressive, making it perfect for entertaining guests.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Cook time: 15 minutes
• Total time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Serving size: 1 cup

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 460
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 28g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 12g

Ingredients

For the Candied Walnuts:

• 1 cup walnut halves
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup water

For the Shrimp:

• 1 pound large shrimp (16–20 count), peeled and deveined
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup cornstarch
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• Vegetable oil for frying

For the Honey Sauce:

• ⅓ cup mayonnaise
• 3 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon sweetened condensed milk
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Optional Garnishes:

• Green onions, chopped
• Sesame seeds

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Candied Walnuts

1. Combine the sugar and water in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves, forming a syrup.
2. Add the walnut halves to the syrup and cook for 2–3 minutes, ensuring they are fully coated.
3. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the walnuts to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Let them cool and harden.

2. Prepare the Shrimp

1. Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
2. Season the shrimp with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
3. Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with cornstarch.
4. Dredge each shrimp in the flour, dip it in the beaten eggs, and coat it with cornstarch. Place the breaded shrimp on a plate.

3. Fry the Shrimp

1. Heat 2–3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C).
2. Fry the shrimp in batches for 2–3 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan.
3. Remove the shrimp with a slotted spoon and drain on a plate lined with paper towels.

4. Prepare the Honey Sauce

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, honey, sweetened condensed milk, and lemon juice until smooth and creamy.

5. Toss the Shrimp

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the fried shrimp and honey sauce. Toss gently to coat the shrimp evenly.

6. Assemble and Serve

1. Arrange the coated shrimp on a serving plate. Sprinkle with candied walnuts, chopped green onions, and sesame seeds for garnish.
2. Serve immediately with steamed rice, noodles, or a light vegetable stir-fry.

Ingredient Background

• Shrimp: Large shrimp are ideal for this recipe, as they maintain a juicy texture when fried. Peeled and deveined shrimp save time and effort.
• Walnuts: Provide a nutty crunch that complements the creamy, sweet honey sauce. Candied walnuts add an extra layer of sweetness and texture.
• Mayonnaise: Forms the base of the honey sauce, adding creaminess and tang.
• Sweetened Condensed Milk: Enhances the sweetness and richness of the sauce.
• Cornstarch: Creates a light, crispy coating for the shrimp when fried.

Technique Tips

• Use cold, dry shrimp for the best coating adherence.
• Double-dip the shrimp in egg and cornstarch for an extra-crispy texture.
• Monitor the oil temperature closely to ensure even frying and avoid greasy shrimp.
• Stir the honey sauce just before tossing to maintain its smooth consistency.
• Let the candied walnuts cool completely before handling to avoid sticking.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Serve Honey Walnut Shrimp in lettuce cups for a fresh, low-carb option.
• Add the shrimp and sauce to a bed of mixed greens for a light, flavorful salad.
• Incorporate the shrimp into a noodle stir-fry for a complete one-dish meal.
• Plate the dish family-style on a large platter for a dramatic and shareable presentation.

Additional Tips for Success

• If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the amount of honey or condensed milk in the sauce.
• Use pecans or almonds instead of walnuts for a different nutty flavor.
• To save time, purchase pre-candied nuts from the store.
• Fry the shrimp in small batches to maintain the oil temperature and achieve even cooking.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Honey Walnut Shrimp: Add a teaspoon of sriracha or chili paste to the honey sauce for a spicy kick.
• Gluten-Free Version: Substitute the flour with gluten-free all-purpose flour and ensure other ingredients are gluten-free.
• Coconut Shrimp: Replace the cornstarch coating with shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
• Vegetarian Option: Use tofu or cauliflower florets instead of shrimp for a plant-based variation.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven to restore crispiness.
• Freezing: While the shrimp is best served fresh, you can freeze the fried shrimp separately (without the sauce) for up to 2 months. Reheat in an oven or air fryer before tossing in the sauce.
• Candied Walnuts: Store leftover candied walnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Bake the shrimp at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes instead of frying for a lighter option.
• Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise in the honey sauce for a lower-fat alternative.
• Reduce the sugar in the candied walnuts or opt for unsweetened nuts.
• Serve the shrimp with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a low-carb meal.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Family Dinner: Pair Honey Walnut Shrimp with steamed jasmine rice and sautéed green beans for a balanced meal.
• Dinner Party: Serve as an appetizer alongside spring rolls and dumplings for an Asian-inspired spread.
• Holiday Celebrations: Present as a centerpiece dish with a side of fried rice and stir-fried vegetables.
• Potluck Gathering: Prepare the shrimp and sauce separately, then toss together just before serving for maximum freshness.

Special Equipment

• Small saucepan for candied walnuts
• Mixing bowls for batter and sauce
• Deep skillet, Dutch oven, or deep fryer for frying
• Slotted spoon for removing shrimp from oil

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
   Yes, ensure the shrimp is fully thawed and patted dry before using.
2. How do I prevent the shrimp from becoming soggy?
   Serve the dish immediately after tossing the shrimp in the sauce to maintain crispiness.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   For the best texture, prepare the shrimp and sauce separately. Reheat the shrimp and toss with the sauce just before serving.
4. What other nuts can I use?
   Pecans, almonds, or cashews are excellent substitutes for walnuts.
5. Is there a way to make the sauce dairy-free?
   Use coconut cream or a dairy-free condensed milk substitute.
6. How do I make the shrimp extra crispy?
   Double-dip the shrimp in egg and cornstarch, and fry at the correct oil temperature (350°F).
7. Can I use a different protein?
   Yes, chicken, tofu, or scallops work well as alternatives to shrimp.
8. What sides pair well with Honey Walnut Shrimp?
   Serve with steamed rice, fried rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a fresh cucumber salad.

Conclusion

Honey Walnut Shrimp is a delightful fusion of textures and flavors, featuring crispy shrimp, a creamy honey sauce, and crunchy candied walnuts. This dish combines elegance and simplicity, making it perfect for both casual meals and special occasions. With this easy-to-follow recipe, you can bring restaurant-quality Honey Walnut Shrimp to your table, impressing family and friends with your culinary skills. Try it today and savor the sweet and savory magic of this beloved dish!

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