Honey Walnut Shrimp

If you’re looking for a dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends, let me introduce you to my beloved Honey Walnut Shrimp. This delightful recipe brings the flavors of your favorite Chinese restaurant right into your kitchen. It’s creamy, crispy, and incredibly satisfying—perfect for both busy weeknights and special gatherings. The combination of crunchy walnuts with succulent shrimp is simply irresistible!

What I love most about this dish is how easy it is to prepare. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious meal that everyone will rave about. Whether you’re treating yourself after a long day or hosting a cozy dinner party, this Honey Walnut Shrimp will always steal the show.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Perfect for those nights when you need dinner on the table fast without sacrificing flavor.
• Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will adore the sweet and savory taste of this dish!
• Crispy Goodness: The frying process gives the shrimp a delightful crunch that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
• Versatile Dish: Great as a main course or served over rice for a complete meal.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the components in advance, making dinner prep even easier.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this Honey Walnut Shrimp, you’ll only need simple, wholesome ingredients you might already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Sauce

• ⅔ cup sugar
• 1 cup water
• 1 cup walnut halves
• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon canned sweetened condensed milk
• 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice

For the Shrimp

• 1 pound shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 3 large egg whites
• 1 cup cornstarch

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to adjust it to suit your taste or dietary preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use chicken or tofu instead of shrimp for a different twist.
• Add some spice: Toss in some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick!
• Extra veggies: Stir in some bell peppers or snap peas during frying for added color and nutrition.
• Nut alternatives: If you’re not a fan of walnuts, try cashews or almonds for a different flavor profile.

How to Make Honey Walnut Shrimp

Step 1: Prepare the Walnuts

Start by adding sugar and water to a small saucepan and bringing it to a boil. This step creates a sweet syrup that coats our walnuts beautifully. Once boiling, add the walnuts and cook them for just 2-3 minutes until they’re nicely caramelized. Remove them with a strainer and spread them on a plate to cool—they’ll be crunchy perfection in no time!

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In a large bowl, mix together mayonnaise, honey, sweetened condensed milk, and fresh lemon juice. This creamy sauce is what makes our Honey Walnut Shrimp so special! The honey adds sweetness while the lemon juice balances it out with brightness. Set this aside; it will be ready when we toss everything together later.

Step 3: Prep the Shrimp

Now it’s time to get our shrimp ready! In one bowl, whisk together egg whites until frothy. In another shallow dish, pour the cornstarch. First, coat each shrimp in egg whites—which helps create that crispy texture—then dredge them in cornstarch until they are fully covered. Place them on a baking sheet dusted with cornstarch to keep them from sticking.

Step 4: Frying Time!

Heat about 1 ½ inches of oil in a large pot to 350°F. Fry the shrimp in batches for about 2 minutes until they’re golden brown and super crispy. Be sure not to overcrowd the pot; we want each piece to get evenly cooked! Transfer them onto paper towels afterward to drain any excess oil.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Finally, add those crispy shrimp and caramelized walnuts into your bowl of sauce. Gently toss everything together until every bite is coated in that luscious mixture. And voila! Your Honey Walnut Shrimp is ready to enjoy!

I hope you find as much joy in making this recipe as I do! It’s truly one of those meals that brings everyone together around the table with smiles all around. Enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Honey Walnut Shrimp

Making Honey Walnut Shrimp at home can be a delightful experience, and with these pro tips, you can ensure that every bite is as delicious as your favorite restaurant dish.

• Choose fresh shrimp: Fresh or properly thawed shrimp will give you a tender texture, ensuring each bite is juicy and flavorful. Avoid shrimp that smells overly fishy.

• Don’t skip the cornstarch: Coating the shrimp in cornstarch before frying creates that signature crispy texture. It locks in moisture and gives you that crunch from the first bite to the last.

• Maintain oil temperature: Using a thermometer to keep your oil at 350°F is key for achieving golden-brown shrimp. If the oil is too cool, the shrimp may absorb too much oil; if it’s too hot, they could burn quickly.

• Fry in batches: Frying shrimp in small batches helps maintain the oil temperature and ensures even cooking. Overcrowding the pot can lead to steaming rather than frying.

• Serve immediately: Honey Walnut Shrimp is best enjoyed fresh and hot! Serving it right after tossing with sauce keeps everything crispy and delicious.

How to Serve Honey Walnut Shrimp

Presenting your Honey Walnut Shrimp beautifully can elevate your dining experience, making it not only delicious but also visually stunning!

Garnishes

• Chopped green onions: Sprinkle some fresh chopped green onions on top for a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that complements the sweetness of the dish.

• Sesame seeds: A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds adds a nutty flavor and an appealing crunch that enhances both texture and appearance.

Side Dishes

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fragrant and fluffy rice serves as a perfect base to soak up the creamy sauce, balancing out the richness of the shrimp.

• Stir-Fried Vegetables: A colorful mix of bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas stir-fried with garlic provides a crunchy contrast and adds nutritional value to your meal.

• Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar can help cut through the richness of the honey walnut shrimp while adding a crisp texture.

• Egg Fried Rice: This classic side dish, packed with eggs and vegetables, complements the flavors of Honey Walnut Shrimp beautifully while providing hearty sustenance for your meal.

With these serving suggestions and tips, your homemade Honey Walnut Shrimp will shine both in taste and presentation! Enjoy creating this scrumptious dish for you and your loved ones!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Honey Walnut Shrimp recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious dinner throughout the week without much fuss. The key is in how you store and reheat it, ensuring that the shrimp remain crispy and flavorful.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the shrimp to cool completely before storing.
• Place the shrimp and sauce in an airtight container, separating them if possible to maintain crispiness.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, place the cooked shrimp on a baking sheet in a single layer until frozen solid.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 1 month. Note: The sauce may not freeze well, so consider making it fresh when ready to serve.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore crispiness.
• Alternatively, reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, taking care not to overcook the shrimp.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Honey Walnut Shrimp:

Can I use frozen shrimp for Honey Walnut Shrimp?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking for best results.

What can I serve with Honey Walnut Shrimp?

Honey Walnut Shrimp pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables. It’s also great over a bed of greens for a lighter option.

How do I keep Honey Walnut Shrimp crispy?

To keep your Honey Walnut Shrimp crispy, store the shrimp and sauce separately and reheat them in an oven rather than a microwave.

Is there a substitute for mayonnaise in this recipe?

Yes! You can use Greek yogurt or avocado-based mayonnaise as a healthier alternative while still achieving that creamy texture.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Honey Walnut Shrimp just as much as I do! It captures all the flavors of your favorite restaurant dish while being simple enough for any night of the week. Celebrate your cooking adventures and share this recipe with friends and family—you’ll surely impress them! Happy cooking!