As I stood in my kitchen, the scent of frying shrimp wafted through the air, immediately whisking me away to my favorite Chinese takeout joint. That’s when it hit me – why settle for takeout when I can create my own Honey Walnut Shrimp right at home? This recipe combines crispy fried shrimp with a creamy, sweet sauce and crunchy candied walnuts, making it not just easy to whip up, but a true crowd-pleaser that’s far better than anything you’d order out. Perfect for a cozy dinner or impressing guests, this dish is indulgent without the guilt. Trust me, you’ll enjoy both the hands-on cooking experience and the wonderful bites of flavor that unfold with each mouthful. Ready to turn your kitchen into an Asian-inspired haven? Let’s dive in!
Why Choose Honey Walnut Shrimp?
Irresistible Flavor: The blend of creamy sauce and crunchy candied walnuts creates a taste explosion that’s truly unforgettable.
Crispy Perfection: Each bite of shrimp is wrapped in a light, crispy batter that rivals the best takeout but with fresh ingredients.
Quick Prep Time: In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a restaurant-quality dish ready, making it perfect for busy nights!
Versatile Dish: Customize your meal by adding veggies like snap peas or swapping walnuts for pecans, offering something for everyone.
Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors and textures make this dish not just delicious but stunning to serve at dinner parties!
Elevate your culinary repertoire and enjoy the savory richness of homemade dishes like Honey Butter Cornbread alongside this delightful Honey Walnut Shrimp!
Honey Walnut Shrimp Ingredients
For the Shrimp
- Large Shrimp – Opt for wild shrimp for deeper flavor; ensure they are peeled and deveined.
- Egg Whites – Helps create a light batter for frying; can be substituted with aquafaba for a vegan version.
- Cornstarch – Essential for achieving a crispy coating on the shrimp.
For the Sauce
- Mayonnaise – Adds creaminess to the sauce; swap with Greek yogurt for a lighter touch.
- Honey – Enriches the sauce with sweetness and a sticky texture; essential for that classic honey walnut shrimp flavor.
- Condensed Milk – Intensifies sweetness and creaminess; use more honey or sugar if needed.
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – Provides a subtle kick; adjust according to your spice preference.
For the Candied Walnuts
- Walnut Halves – Delivers a crunchy texture and nutty flavor; pecans can be used for a twist.
- Granulated Sugar – Essential for making the walnuts sweet and candy-like.
- Water – Used to boil the walnuts for the candied coating; helps dissolve the sugar evenly.
For Frying
- Vegetable Oil – Necessary for frying shrimp to crispy perfection; can use canola or peanut oil as alternatives.
Dive into this delightful recipe, and you’ll find that making Honey Walnut Shrimp at home is not just easy, but a delicious way to outshine takeout!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Honey Walnut Shrimp
Step 1: Heat the Oil
In a medium deep skillet, pour enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom about 1 inch deep. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until shimmering, roughly 350°F. To test the readiness, drop in a small piece of bread; it should sizzle and turn golden brown in about 60 seconds. This is perfect for frying the shrimp to achieve that crispy texture.
Step 2: Candy the Walnuts
In a small saucepan, combine water and granulated sugar. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then add the walnut halves, allowing them to boil for 2 minutes. As the walnuts cook, the sugar will dissolve, creating a syrupy coating. After boiling, transfer the walnuts to a parchment-lined baking sheet to cool and harden, making a delightful, crunchy topping for your Honey Walnut Shrimp.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, honey, condensed milk, and crushed red pepper flakes until smooth and creamy. This sauce will become the luscious coating that brings everything together in your Honey Walnut Shrimp. Once combined, set the bowl aside; it will be ready to envelop the crispy shrimp once they are cooked.
Step 4: Make the Batter
In another bowl, whisk the egg whites and cornstarch until soft peaks form, which will create a light batter that clings to the shrimp. This step is crucial for achieving that delightful crunch in your Honey Walnut Shrimp. Ensure the mixture is frothy yet stable before proceeding to dip the shrimp for even coverage.
Step 5: Fry the Shrimp
Carefully dip each large shrimp into the prepared egg white batter, allowing the excess to drip off. Gently add the coated shrimp one at a time into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes or until they turn a beautiful golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and transfer to a paper-lined plate to absorb excess oil.
Step 6: Combine and Serve
Once all the shrimp are fried, toss them gently in the prepared creamy sauce until evenly coated. The combination will create a rich, delectable flavor. Top the Honey Walnut Shrimp with the candied walnuts for that extra crunch and sweetness. Serve immediately to enjoy the crispy texture and vibrant flavors that truly make this dish a standout!
What to Serve with Honey Walnut Shrimp
Looking to elevate your mealtime experience? Pair these delightful flavors with complementary dishes that enhance every delicious bite.
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Fluffy Jasmine Rice: The light, fragrant grains soak up the creamy sauce, creating a delightful balance with the sweet shrimp.
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Steamed Vegetable Medley: A mix of vibrant broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers gives a crunchy, fresh contrast, making your meal well-rounded and nutritious.
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Crispy Spring Rolls: These crispy, filled delights bring a satisfying crunch alongside the Honey Walnut Shrimp, adding a delightful textural play to your meal.
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Sesame Noodles: Drizzled with a tangy sauce, the noodles offer a deliciously savory backdrop, enhancing the flavors of the shrimp while keeping dinner fun and flavorful.
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Chilled Cucumber Salad: A refreshing, zesty salad balances the sweetness of the shrimp, brightening the meal with its crisp and cooling effect.
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Sparkling Green Tea: This lightly sweetened drink refreshes the palate, perfectly complementing the richness of the dish and enhancing your dining experience.
Dive into these thoughtful pairings, and experience just how fantastic a home-cooked meal can truly be!
Make Ahead Options
These Honey Walnut Shrimp are an excellent choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the sauce and candied walnuts up to 3 days in advance and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Be sure to keep the sauce separate until you’re ready to serve, as this helps maintain the shrimp’s crispy texture. When you’re ready to indulge, simply fry the shrimp (which can be coated just before frying for the best crunch) for about 2-3 minutes until golden brown. Toss the shrimp in the prepared sauce, top with the candied walnuts, and enjoy a delicious homemade dish that’s just as satisfying as takeout, but with much less fuss!
Expert Tips for Honey Walnut Shrimp
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Perfect Shrimp: Ensure your large shrimp are completely peeled and deveined for the best texture and taste. Wild shrimp offer the richest flavor.
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Crispy Batter: Whisk the egg whites until they form soft peaks; this step is essential for a light, crispy coating. A stable batter will cling perfectly to the shrimp.
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Avoid Sogginess: For optimal crunch, serve the sauce on the side if you’re not eating immediately. This keeps your Honey Walnut Shrimp crispy until it’s time to dig in!
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Candy the Walnuts: Watch the walnuts carefully while boiling; they need only 2 minutes for the right texture. Too long can lead to a burnt flavor.
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Oil Temperature: Maintain the oil temperature around 350°F. Dropping shrimp into oil that’s too cool will result in a greasy coating instead of a crispy finish.
Enjoy creating your delicious Honey Walnut Shrimp and impress your family with this homemade alternative that beats takeout!
Honey Walnut Shrimp Variations
Feel free to get creative with your Honey Walnut Shrimp—each twist is an opportunity to elevate this beloved dish!
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Nut Swap: Substitute traditional walnuts with pecans or cashews for a different crunch and flavor profile. Each nut brings its unique richness to the dish!
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Citrus Burst: Add a splash of lemon juice to the sauce for a refreshing zing that brightens the sweetness. It’s a delightful contrast that makes every bite sing!
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Veggie Lovers: Toss in some steamed broccoli or sugar snap peas for a pop of color and nutrition. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a satisfying crunch.
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Spicy Kick: Increase the crushed red pepper flakes for those who love a bit of heat or add sriracha to the sauce for an exciting twist. Just a small amount can add significant flavor without overpowering!
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Honey-Free Option: For a lower sugar version, reduce the honey and substitute with a touch of maple syrup or even a sugar-free sweetener. You can enjoy this dish guilt-free while still meeting your sweet cravings.
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Creamy Vegan Twist: To make the dish vegan, change the mayonnaise to vegan mayo and the egg whites to aquafaba. The results will still be delicious!
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Sweet Corn Addition: Incorporate sweet corn for a delightful texture contrast that complements the sweetness of the fried shrimp and the sauce. It’s a great way to sneak in more veggies while enhancing flavor.
To complement your Honey Walnut Shrimp, consider serving it alongside fluffy jasmine rice or perhaps with a slice of scrumptious Honey Butter Cornbread for added comfort. Enjoy your culinary adventure!
How to Store and Freeze Honey Walnut Shrimp
Fridge: Store cooked Honey Walnut Shrimp in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain crispiness, keep the sauce separate until you’re ready to eat.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the fried shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for best texture.
Reheating: To reheat, place the shrimp on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, approximately 10-15 minutes. This method helps restore crispness.
Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the sauce and candied walnuts a couple of days in advance. Assemble and fry the shrimp just before serving for that freshly made taste.
Honey Walnut Shrimp Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing shrimp, look for large, wild-caught shrimp that are peeled and deveined for the best flavor. Avoid shrimp with dark spots or a fishy odor; fresh shrimp should have a mild ocean scent and translucent appearance.
How should I store leftover Honey Walnut Shrimp?
Very simply! Store any leftover Honey Walnut Shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep the shrimp crispy, I recommend keeping the sauce separate until you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers.
Can I freeze Honey Walnut Shrimp?
Yes, you can definitely freeze it! To do this, first, fry the shrimp and then allow them to cool completely. Arrange the fried shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag and label it with the date. They can be kept frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, reheating in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes will help them regain some of their crispiness.
What should I do if my batter isn’t crispy?
The more the merrier when it comes to batter! If your batter isn’t as crispy as you’d like, ensure you have whisked the egg whites to soft peaks. Additionally, keeping the oil temperature at around 350°F is key; oil that’s too cool can result in a soggy texture. Finally, make sure not to overcrowd the pan while frying, as this can lower the oil temperature significantly.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Definitely! This Honey Walnut Shrimp recipe contains shrimp and eggs, which can trigger allergies in some individuals. If you’re looking for a vegan option, you can substitute aqua faba for the egg whites and use vegan mayonnaise. Always consider your guests’ dietary needs by asking about allergies before serving!
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! I often prepare the sauce a couple of days in advance. Simply whisk together the mayonnaise, honey, condensed milk, and crushed red pepper flakes, store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and give it a good stir before you toss the freshly fried shrimp in it. This way, you’ll save time during meal prep!
Sweet and Crispy Honey Walnut Shrimp That Beats Takeout
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium deep skillet, pour enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom about 1 inch deep. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until shimmering, roughly 350°F.
- In a small saucepan, combine water and granulated sugar. Bring to a boil, add the walnut halves, and boil for 2 minutes.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, honey, condensed milk, and crushed red pepper flakes until smooth.
- In another bowl, whisk the egg whites and cornstarch until soft peaks form to create a light batter.
- Carefully dip each large shrimp into the prepared batter and gently add them one at a time into the hot oil, frying for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
- Once all the shrimp are fried, toss them in the prepared creamy sauce until evenly coated, then top with candied walnuts.
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