Honey Walnut Shrimp is a popular dish that combines crunchy fried shrimp with a sweet, creamy sauce and beautifully candied walnuts. If you’ve ever enjoyed this delightful dish at a restaurant, you know how the flavors meld together to create an irresistible experience. Today, you’ll learn how to recreate this scrumptious dish in your own kitchen, ensuring that every bite is packed with flavor. Let’s dive into the world of Honey Walnut Shrimp and discover why it deserves a place on your dinner table!
Why We Love This Honey Walnut Shrimp Recipe
You might be wondering what makes Honey Walnut Shrimp special. This dish stands out because it offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors. The crispy shrimp is complemented by the creamy, sweet sauce, while the candied walnuts add a delightful crunch. It’s not just the flavor that captivates your taste buds; it’s also the visual appeal. The golden-brown shrimp and glossy sauce create a dish that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.
Another reason to love this recipe is its versatility. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, preparing a family meal, or simply craving a comforting dish, Honey Walnut Shrimp fits the bill. It’s easy to prepare and looks impressive, making it a great choice for any occasion. With this recipe, you’ll be equipped to make a fantastic dish that will impress your guests and leave everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients for Honey Walnut Shrimp
To prepare this delectable Honey Walnut Shrimp dish, you will need the following ingredients:
Shrimp:
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/4 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp white pepper
- 1/2 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp neutral oil
Coating:
- 1/2 cup cornstarch (for coating)
- 1/4 tsp salt (for coating)
- 1/4 tsp white pepper (for coating)
Candied Walnuts:
- 1 cup whole walnuts
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1/2 cup water
Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayo
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp condensed milk
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (or rice vinegar)
- Salt, to taste
- Neutral oil for frying
Gathering these ingredients will set you on the path to creating a delicious Honey Walnut Shrimp that is sure to impress your taste buds and your guests.
How to Make Honey Walnut Shrimp Directions
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s go through the steps to make Honey Walnut Shrimp. Follow these instructions closely for optimal results.
Prepare the Shrimp: Start by peeling and deveining the shrimp. To ensure they cook evenly and have a beautiful presentation, make a small cut down the back of each shrimp to butterfly them. This technique helps the shrimp curl a little when fried, adding to the visual appeal.
Marinate the Shrimp: In a medium bowl, combine the shrimp with baking soda, salt, white pepper, cornstarch, and neutral oil. Allow the shrimp to marinate for about 15 minutes. This step helps to enhance the flavor of the shrimp and gives it that wonderful crunch after frying.
Make the Candied Walnuts: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once it’s melted, add the brown sugar and stir until it’s fully dissolved. Gradually pour in the water and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Next, add the walnuts and cook for about 5-6 minutes or until the mixture thickens and coats the walnuts. Once done, transfer the walnuts to a plate lined with parchment paper to cool.
Prepare the Coating: In a shallow bowl, mix the cornstarch with salt and white pepper. Take the marinated shrimp and lightly coat them with the cornstarch mixture. Make sure the shrimp are evenly coated for a crispy finish.
Fry the Shrimp: Heat a generous amount of neutral oil in a deep pan or wok to a temperature of 325°F. Carefully drop the coated shrimp into the hot oil in batches, being cautious not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and crispy. Once done, remove the shrimp from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Prepare the Sauce: In a separate bowl, combine the mayo, honey, condensed milk, lemon juice, and a sprinkle of salt. This will be your sweet and creamy sauce. Mix everything well until it’s smooth and combined.
Combine: Gently fold the fried shrimp into the sauce until they are fully coated. Add the candied walnuts and give everything a gentle stir to incorporate.
Now your Honey Walnut Shrimp is ready to serve! This dish is not only visually stunning but also mouthwatering, making it the perfect main course for any meal.
How to Serve Honey Walnut Shrimp
When it comes to serving Honey Walnut Shrimp, presentation is key. Here are a few tips to make your dish visually appealing and delightful to eat.
Plate It Right: Start by placing the shrimp on a large serving plate. Make sure to arrange them in a way that highlights their beautiful golden color. The candied walnuts can be scattered over the shrimp for added texture and decoration.
Garnish: To elevate the dish, consider garnishing it with freshly chopped green onions or a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Not only do these additions add a pop of color, but they also enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
Pair It Up: Honey Walnut Shrimp pairs beautifully with steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables. You can create a complete meal by serving it alongside fluffy white rice, which will complement the sweetness of the shrimp and provide a satisfying base.
Serving Temperature: This dish is best served immediately while it’s still warm and crispy. If you have to wait a bit before serving, consider keeping it in a warm oven (set at a low temperature) to maintain its temperature without losing its crunch.
By following these serving tips, you can create a beautiful meal that your guests will enjoy while also showcasing your culinary skills.
Expert Tips: Honey Walnut Shrimp
To ensure that your Honey Walnut Shrimp turns out perfectly, here are some expert tips to keep in mind:
Choose the Right Shrimp: Opt for large or jumbo shrimp for a satisfying bite. Always select shrimp that is fresh, as this will enhance the flavor and texture of your dish.
Heat the Oil Properly: Make sure your oil is hot enough before frying. If the oil is too cool, the shrimp will absorb more oil and become greasy. Use a thermometer to check the temperature for optimal frying.
Marinating Time: Don’t skip the marination step, as it provides the shrimp with flavor and helps with the frying process. A little time in the marinade makes a world of difference.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When frying, remember to work in small batches. Overcrowding the pan can lower the oil temperature and lead to unevenly cooked shrimp.
Experiment with the Sauce: Feel free to adjust the sweetness or tanginess of the sauce to your liking. If you prefer a bolder flavor, add more lemon juice or honey, or even consider adding a dash of chili sauce for a hint of spice.
Mind the Walnuts: When making the candied walnuts, make sure to keep an eye on the mixture as it cooks. It can burn quickly, so constant stirring is essential.
By applying these expert tips, you can elevate your Honey Walnut Shrimp dish and impress everyone at your table.
How to Store Honey Walnut Shrimp
If you find yourself with leftover Honey Walnut Shrimp, don’t worry! Storing it properly will help maintain its flavor for another meal.
Storing the Shrimp: Allow any leftover shrimp to cool completely before storing. Place it in an airtight container to keep it as fresh as possible. If you have leftover sauce, you can store it separately to preserve the shrimp’s texture.
Refrigeration: Store your Honey Walnut Shrimp in the refrigerator if you plan to eat it within the next few days. Properly stored, it can last for about 2-3 days.
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheat the shrimp in an oven at a low temperature for a few minutes until heated through. Avoid using a microwave, as it can make the shrimp soggy. If needed, you can quickly fry the shrimp again in a little bit of oil to restore some of the crispiness.
Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the shrimp before coating them with the sauce. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, simply thaw them in the refrigerator and then proceed to fry and coat with the sauce.
Variations of Honey Walnut Shrimp
While the classic Honey Walnut Shrimp is a fantastic dish on its own, there are numerous variations you can try to keep things interesting or to cater to different dietary needs.
Adding Vegetables: Consider mixing in some vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas for a nutritious boost. Not only do they add beautiful color, but they also provide additional vitamins and minerals.
Substituting Ingredients: If you want a lighter version, you can use Greek yogurt instead of mayo for the sauce. This will provide creaminess without the extra calories.
Spicy Twist: If you enjoy spicy food, you can add some chili flakes or sriracha to the sauce for an extra kick. The combination of sweet and spicy is sure to excite your taste buds.
Healthier Cooking Method: Instead of frying, try baking the shrimp for a healthier alternative. Coat the shrimp lightly with oil and bake them in a preheated oven at 400°F until golden and crispy.
Honey Variants: Experiment with different types of honey, such as wildflower or clover honey, to see how it influences the flavor of your dish. Each honey has its own unique taste profile that can alter the overall dish.
These variations allow you to customize Honey Walnut Shrimp to your liking, offering a fresh take on a beloved classic.
FAQ About Honey Walnut Shrimp
What is Honey Walnut Shrimp?
Honey Walnut Shrimp is a delicious dish that combines crispy fried shrimp with candied walnuts and a sweet, creamy sauce. It’s renowned for its unique flavor combination and appealing presentation.
How can I make Honey Walnut Shrimp healthier?
You can make Honey Walnut Shrimp healthier by using Greek yogurt instead of mayo in the sauce, adding more vegetables, or opting for baked shrimp instead of frying.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them thoroughly before marinating to ensure even cooking and flavor absorption.
What sides pair well with Honey Walnut Shrimp?
Honey Walnut Shrimp pairs beautifully with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or even a light salad to balance out the richness of the dish.
Honey Walnut Shrimp
Equipment
- Large Saucepan
- Deep frying pan
- Mixing Bowls
Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp peeled and deveined
- 1/4 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp white pepper
- 1/2 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp neutral oil
- 1/2 cup cornstarch for coating
- 1/4 tsp salt for coating
- 1/4 tsp white pepper for coating
- 1 cup whole walnuts
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cup mayo
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp condensed milk
- 1 tbsp lemon juice or rice vinegar
- Salt to taste
- neutral oil for frying
Instructions
- Peel and devein the shrimp, then butterfly them by making a small cut down the back.
- In a medium bowl, combine shrimp with baking soda, salt, white pepper, cornstarch, and neutral oil. Marinate for 15 minutes.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and add brown sugar. Stir until dissolved, then add water and bring to a simmer.
- Add walnuts to the saucepan and cook for 5-6 minutes until thickened. Transfer to parchment paper to cool.
- Coat the marinated shrimp with cornstarch mixture, then fry in hot oil at 325°F for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
- In a bowl, combine mayo, honey, condensed milk, lemon juice, and salt to make the sauce.
- Gently fold fried shrimp into the sauce and add candied walnuts. Serve immediately.
Send me this recipe!
Just enter your email below and get it sent straight to your inbox!