Honey walnut shrimp delivers a delightful blend of rich flavors and textures that combine sweetness, crunch, and a savory kick. This dish not only provides a treat for your taste buds but also embodies the heart of comfort food, making it a perennial favorite in both home kitchens and restaurants. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply enjoy a satisfying meal, honey walnut shrimp is a dish worth mastering.
Why We Love This Honey Walnut Shrimp
Honey walnut shrimp captures the essence of great cooking with its perfect balance of ingredients. The juicy shrimp, coated in a light batter, becomes incredibly tender while maintaining a slight crunch. The luscious honey sauce brings a natural sweetness that beautifully contrasts with the creamy texture of the sauce. The added walnuts provide an irresistible crunch, elevating the dish and making each bite a harmony of flavors and textures. This dish not only tastes wonderful but also presents beautifully, making it a showstopper at any gathering. Plus, it’s easy to make at home, bringing the taste of restaurant-quality cuisine right into your kitchen.
Ingredients for Honey Walnut Shrimp
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup walnuts
- 1 cup water (for cooking walnuts)
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Oil, for frying
- Chives or green onions, for garnish (optional)
Directions
Start by preparing the walnuts. In a small saucepan, combine water and walnuts over medium heat. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 5 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Heat oil in a deep pan or wok over medium-high heat, ensuring you have enough to fry the ingredients.
While the oil heats, whisk together eggs in one bowl and place cornstarch on a plate.
Dip each shrimp into the eggs, ensuring full coverage, then coat it in cornstarch, shaking off the excess.
Fry the coated shrimp in hot oil until golden brown and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from oil and let drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
In a separate bowl, mix mayonnaise, honey, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to make the sauce.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the fried shrimp, walnuts, and sauce. Toss gently until all pieces are coated.
Serve immediately, garnished with chives or green onions if desired.
How to Serve Honey Walnut Shrimp
Serving honey walnut shrimp can elevate your meal to a new level. You can present it beautifully on a large plate, allowing the shiny shrimp and glistening walnuts to shine. Pair it with steamed rice or fluffy white rice to soak up the sweet and creamy sauce. The simplicity of rice ensures that the flavors of the dish stand out. Garnish with chopped chives or thinly sliced green onions for a pop of color and flavor. You can also add a side of stir-fried vegetables such as broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas, giving your plate a vibrant contrast. In addition to this, consider providing small serving spoons for guests to easily plate their own portions. This dish works well for family dinners, special occasions, or as part of a larger menu featuring various Asian-inspired dishes.
Expert Tips for Honey Walnut Shrimp
To perfect your honey walnut shrimp, a few expert tips can make a significant difference. First, choose the freshest shrimp you can find; they will enhance the flavor and texture of the dish. When frying, ensure your oil is hot enough to give the shrimp a crisp, golden exterior—around 350°F should suffice. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lower the oil temperature and lead to soggy shrimp. If you’re in a rush, you can fry the shrimp in batches, allowing the oil to return to temperature in between. For the sauce, feel free to adjust the honey and lemon juice to your taste. Some prefer a sweeter sauce, while others may enjoy a more tart flavor. Lastly, letting the shrimp sit in the sauce for a few minutes before serving helps to deepen the flavors and ensures that each bite is delicious.
How to Store Honey Walnut Shrimp
Storing honey walnut shrimp properly is essential for maintaining its flavor and texture. If you have leftovers, allow the dish to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough. Use a microwave on low power, or gently reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. If you want to save some for longer, consider freezing the shrimp after frying but before adding the sauce. Wrap the shrimp tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight freezer bag. When you want to enjoy them again, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and then sauté them to reheat, adding the sauce at the end.
Variations of Honey Walnut Shrimp
While traditional honey walnut shrimp is delightful on its own, experimenting with variations can enhance your culinary repertoire. For a spicy kick, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce or drizzle with a spicy chili oil before serving. If you crave some tanginess, incorporate a splash of orange juice or zest into the honey sauce for a citrus twist. For a nutty depth, consider using pecans instead of walnuts, providing a slightly different crunch and flavor profile. If you prefer a lighter version, try baking the shrimp after coating them with cornstarch rather than frying. This change retains a lovely texture while being a healthier alternative. Additionally, you could serve the dish over a bed of salad greens for a fresh, vibrant meal that’s perfect for warmer weather. Each variation allows you to mold this dish to your liking, making it versatile enough for any palate.
FAQ about Honey Walnut Shrimp
What is honey walnut shrimp?
Honey walnut shrimp is a popular dish made with crispy fried shrimp, coated in a sweet and creamy sauce, topped with candied walnuts, creating a delightful mix of flavors and textures.
Is honey walnut shrimp spicy?
No, honey walnut shrimp is not typically spicy. It combines sweet and savory elements, offering a comforting flavor without any heat. However, you can add spice if you prefer.
Can I make honey walnut shrimp ahead of time?
You can prepare the shrimp and sauce ahead of time but it’s best to combine them just before serving to keep the shrimp crispy and the dish fresh.
What can I serve with honey walnut shrimp?
Honey walnut shrimp pairs well with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or even a fresh salad. It works as a main dish or part of a larger spread of Asian-inspired foods.
How can I make honey walnut shrimp healthier?
To make this dish healthier, consider baking the shrimp instead of frying them and use less mayonnaise in the sauce. You can also add more vegetables to the meal for added nutrients.