The sound of sizzling shrimp fills the kitchen, transporting me back to cozy evenings spent at my favorite takeout spot. That’s the magic of this Honey Walnut Shrimp recipe, where crispy, golden shrimp meets a creamy, sweet sauce, creating an unforgettable dining experience right at home. Not only does this dish shine during special occasions, but it’s also a fantastic way to elevate your weeknight dinners. With its quick prep time and stunning presentation, it’s perfect for impressing guests or simply enjoying a flavorful meal with loved ones. Ready to create your version of this culinary delight? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why is this recipe a must-try?
Deliciously Crispy: This Honey Walnut Shrimp achieves the perfect crunch with a double-fry method, ensuring each bite is satisfying.
Versatile Sauce Options: Choose between creamy mayonnaise or a lighter honey alternative for a customizable flavor that suits your palate.
Quick and Easy: With straightforward steps, you’ll have a restaurant-quality dish ready in no time, perfect for busy weeknights!
Impressive Presentation: This dish not only tastes great but looks stunning when served, making it a show-stopper for gatherings or special occasions.
Comfort Food Classic: Indulge in the sweet and savory goodness that elevates home-cooked meals, reminiscent of your favorite takeout, like Seafood Lasagna Shrimp lifing your dinner routine.
Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for impressing family and friends, they’ll rave about your homemade version of a beloved dish, leaving them craving more!
Honey Walnut Shrimp Ingredients
• Gather these tasty staples to create an irresistible Honey Walnut Shrimp that’s perfect for any occasion!
For the Shrimp
- Large Shrimp (21/25) – Main protein providing a succulent base; opt for frozen or fresh for versatility.
- Egg – Binds the cornstarch while frying; for a crispier batter, use egg whites only.
- Onion Powder – Enhances the savory flavor profile of the shrimp.
- Soy Sauce – Provides umami depth; essential for the batter’s flavor.
- Cornstarch – Coating agent for extra crispiness upon frying; ensure even coverage for best results.
For the Candied Walnuts
- Walnuts – Main nut that adds sweetness and crunch; toast them for maximum flavor.
- Sugar/Honey – Sweetener for candied walnuts; sugar yields a crisper end result, while honey creates a chewier texture.
- Butter – Adds richness and depth to the candied walnuts.
- Salt (optional) – Balances sweetness and enhances the flavor of walnuts.
For the Sauce
- Mayonnaise – Forms a creamy base for the sauce; can substitute with Japanese kewpie mayo for an extra creamy texture.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk – Sweetening agent for the sauce; can be replaced with honey for a less creamy alternative.
- Rice Vinegar – Adds acidity to balance flavors in the sauce; essential for the perfect zing.
For Frying
- Oil – Use a neutral oil like vegetable for frying; ensure it’s hot for perfectly crispy shrimp.
Let’s get cooking and create a dish your taste buds will adore!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Honey Walnut Shrimp
Step 1: Prepare Walnuts
Start by boiling 1 cup of walnuts in water for 2 minutes to remove any bitterness, then drain and rinse. In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat and toast the walnuts for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently until golden. Add ¼ cup of sugar and 2 tablespoons of butter, cooking until the mixture turns brown and syrupy, then set aside to cool.
Step 2: Make Sauce
In a mixing bowl, whisk together ½ cup of mayonnaise, ¼ cup of sweetened condensed milk, 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar, and 1 tablespoon of soy sauce until smooth and creamy. This sauce will give your Honey Walnut Shrimp its rich flavor, so taste it and adjust seasoning if necessary. Once blended well, cover and set aside to let the flavors meld.
Step 3: Prep Shrimp
Begin with 1 pound of large shrimp (21/25 count), ensuring they are thawed if previously frozen. Butterfly each shrimp by slicing along the back without cutting all the way through, creating maximum surface area. In a bowl, whisk together 1 egg, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, and 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, then toss the shrimp in this marinade until fully coated.
Step 4: Coat Shrimp
Take about 1 cup of cornstarch and pour it onto a plate. Dredge each marinated shrimp in the cornstarch, ensuring they are evenly coated. Shake off any excess cornstarch gently. This step is essential for achieving that characteristic crunch in your final Honey Walnut Shrimp dish.
Step 5: Deep Fry
Heat 2 cups of neutral oil in a deep-fryer or a heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C). Carefully place the coated shrimp in a single layer in the hot oil, frying them in batches for about 2 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pot to maintain optimal frying conditions. For extra crunch, double fry the shrimp for an additional 30 seconds.
Step 6: Assemble Dish
Remove the crispy shrimp from the oil and let them drain on paper towels for a minute. In a large bowl, toss the shrimp with the prepared sauce and ¼ cup of finely chopped green onions, mixing gently until each piece is coated. Finally, fold in your candied walnuts, ensuring they are distributed evenly throughout the Honey Walnut Shrimp.
Storage Tips for Honey Walnut Shrimp
- Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. This will help preserve the shrimp’s flavors, but keep in mind the breading may lose some crispiness.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. Enjoy within 2 months for best quality.
- Reheating: To restore some of the original crunch, reheat the shrimp in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes rather than using a microwave; serve immediately for the best taste.
- Sauce Storage: If you have extra sauce, store it separately in the fridge for up to 3 days. This allows you to remake the dish fresh when the mood strikes!
Expert Tips for Honey Walnut Shrimp
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Oil Temperature Check: Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying; test by dropping a small piece of batter into the oil. It should sizzle immediately.
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Crispier Coating: For the best texture, use egg whites only in the batter. This helps achieve a lighter, crispier crust on your shrimp.
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Avoid Sogginess: Let freshly fried shrimp cool slightly before tossing them with the sauce to maintain their crunchiness.
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Walnut Preparation: Boil and rinse walnuts to remove bitterness and ensure they are evenly coated with sugar or honey while candying, preventing clumping.
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Double Frying: Don’t skip the double frying step! It locks in the crunch for the Honey Walnut Shrimp that everyone will love.
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Custom Sauce: Feel free to adjust the sauce ingredients to your taste! Adding a bit of chili flakes can give your dish a delightful kick.
Make Ahead Options
These Honey Walnut Shrimp are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the candied walnuts up to 3 days in advance to avoid last-minute fuss. Simply follow the steps for boiling and toasting the walnuts, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature. The sauce can also be made ahead; refrigerate it for up to 3 days so the flavors deepen. When you’re ready to serve, simply coat the thawed and battered shrimp in cornstarch and fry them fresh. By frying right before serving, you ensure they stay crispy and delicious. With these tips, you’ll have a show-stopping dish ready in no time!
Honey Walnut Shrimp Variations
Feel free to get adventurous with these variations that will elevate your Honey Walnut Shrimp experience!
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Dairy-Free: Replace mayonnaise with silken tofu blended until smooth for a creamy, dairy-free sauce alternative.
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Nut-Free: Omit walnuts and substitute with toasted sunflower seeds for a similar crunch and delightful flavor without the nuts.
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Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of sriracha or chili garlic sauce to the mayo mixture for a delicious heat that balances the sweetness.
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Crispy When Baking: For a healthier twist, coat the shrimp in cornstarch and bake them at 400°F for 15-20 minutes until golden.
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Citrus Twist: Incorporate a splash of fresh lemon or lime juice into the sauce for a refreshing zesty flavor that brightens every bite.
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Honey Variation: Swap out sweetened condensed milk for honey in the sauce to create a lighter, less creamy version that still satisfies.
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Pause on Frying: If frying isn’t your style, try pan-searing the shrimp with a touch of oil for a lighter alternative that still allows for mouthwatering flavor.
Depending on your cravings, your next meal could shine just as much as takeout classics like Seafood Lasagna Shrimp. Or for a special touch, consider adding a drizzle of Hot Honey Feta over the finished dish for an unexpected twist!
What to Serve with Crispy Honey Walnut Shrimp?
Elevate your dining experience with delightful sides that enhance the luscious flavors of your homemade shrimp dish.
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Fluffy Jasmine Rice: The light sweetness of jasmine rice complements the rich sauce beautifully, creating a comforting base for each bite.
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Stir-Fried Vegetables: A medley of colorful veggies like bell peppers and snap peas provides a fresh crunch, balancing the dish’s richness with vibrant flavors.
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Light Asian Salad: Crisp greens with sesame dressing add delightful freshness and a peppery kick, making your meal feel lighter and more refreshing.
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Egg Drop Soup: This warm, savory soup brings a soothing element to the meal, perfect for a cozy family dinner or to start a feast.
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Sesame Noodles: The nutty hues of sesame oil with tender noodles echo the flavors in the shrimp, making for a harmonious pairing.
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Chilled Sake: Enjoy a glass of chilled sake with your meal; its clean flavor enhances the dish’s sweetness while offering a relaxing element to your dinner.
Honey Walnut Shrimp Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe ingredients for the Honey Walnut Shrimp?
Absolutely! For the shrimp, opt for large, firm ones with a light pink hue and a fresh sea scent. Fresh is always better, but if you go for frozen, ensure they’re fully thawed and free of ice crystals. Select walnuts that are light brown, free of dark spots, and have a pleasant nutty aroma—this guarantees they’re fresh and sweet for your dish!
How should I store leftover Honey Walnut Shrimp?
For best results, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This will keep the shrimp flavorful, though the breading may lose some crispiness. If you want to whip up a quick meal without sacrificing flavor, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes for that nice crunch!
Can I freeze Honey Walnut Shrimp?
Yes, you can! To freeze, start by laying the cooked shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet, then freeze for about an hour until firm. After that, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. Enjoy within 2 months for optimal quality. When you’re ready to enjoy, just reheat in the oven or air fryer for the best texture!
What if my shrimp aren’t crispy enough?
No worries! If your shrimp turn out soggy, it may be due to the oil not being hot enough during frying. Make sure to heat your oil to around 350°F (175°C) before adding the shrimp. Additionally, if you skip the double frying, that could lead to a softer texture—don’t forget this step for that perfectly crispy coating everyone loves!
Are there any dietary considerations for this dish?
Absolutely! This Honey Walnut Shrimp dish contains shellfish due to the shrimp, so be cautious with allergies. If you have someone in your household with nut allergies, consider using sunflower seeds instead of walnuts for a similar crunch. For those avoiding mayonnaise, feel free to use a vegan alternative or simply add more sweetened condensed milk or honey for a stand-in.
Can I substitute any ingredients in the sauce?
Very much! You can swap sweetened condensed milk with honey or agave syrup for a lighter flavor. If you prefer a little tang, adding a dash more rice vinegar can elevate the taste. And if you’re seeking creaminess and a different flair, try out Japanese kewpie mayo instead of regular mayonnaise—it’s a delightful twist that you’ll love!
Crispy Homemade Honey Walnut Shrimp That Outshines Takeout
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by boiling 1 cup of walnuts in water for 2 minutes to remove bitterness. Drain and rinse.
- In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Toast walnuts for 5 minutes until golden. Add ¼ cup sugar and 2 tablespoons butter, cooking until brown and syrupy, then cool.
- In a bowl, whisk together ½ cup mayonnaise, ¼ cup sweetened condensed milk, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, and 1 tablespoon soy sauce. Cover and set aside to let flavors meld.
- Butterfly 1 pound of shrimp, then marinate with 1 egg, 1 teaspoon onion powder, and 1 tablespoon soy sauce. Ensure they're fully coated.
- Dredge marinated shrimp in 1 cup cornstarch evenly, shaking off excess.
- Heat 2 cups of oil to 350°F (175°C) and deep fry the shrimp in batches for about 2 minutes or until golden brown. Double fry for extra crunch for 30 seconds.
- Drain fried shrimp on paper towels. Toss with sauce and ¼ cup finely chopped green onions, then fold in candied walnuts.
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