Honey Walnut Shrimp: A Sweet and Savory Delight
Table of Contents
Introduction: A Takeout Favorite at Home
Honey Walnut Shrimp is a beloved dish known for its crispy shrimp, candied walnuts, and creamy honey glaze. While it’s a staple on Chinese restaurant menus, it’s surprisingly simple to recreate at home. Perfect for dinner parties, date nights, or a flavorful weeknight meal, this recipe combines sweet, savory, and nutty flavors in every bite.
Why Honey Walnut Shrimp Is a Must-Try
Irresistible Flavor Combination
The balance of crispy fried shrimp, crunchy walnuts, and sweet honey glaze makes this dish unforgettable.
Restaurant Quality at Home
With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can enjoy takeout-quality shrimp without leaving your kitchen.
Versatile
Serve it over rice, noodles, or as part of a larger Chinese-inspired feast.
Ingredients for Honey Walnut Shrimp
For the Shrimp
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Large shrimp | 1 lb (450g), peeled and deveined |
| Cornstarch | ½ cup (60g) |
| Egg whites | 2, beaten |
| Vegetable oil | For frying |
For the Candied Walnuts
| Ingredient | Amount |
| Walnut halves | ½ cup (60g) |
| Granulated sugar | ½ cup (100g) |
| Water | ¼ cup (60ml) |
For the Honey Sauce
| Ingredient | Amount |
| Mayonnaise | ¼ cup (60ml) |
| Honey | 2 tbsp |
| Sweetened condensed milk | 1 tbsp |
| Lemon juice | 1 tsp |
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Honey Walnut Shrimp
Step 1: Prepare the Candied Walnuts
- Combine sugar and water in a small saucepan over medium heat.
- Bring to a boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
- Add walnuts and cook for 2-3 minutes, coating them in the syrup.
- Remove with a slotted spoon and place on parchment paper to cool.
Step 2: Coat and Fry the Shrimp
- Pat the shrimp dry and toss them in cornstarch to coat evenly.
- Dip each shrimp in beaten egg whites.
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the shrimp in batches until golden and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per batch.
- Drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
Step 3: Make the Honey Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, honey, sweetened condensed milk, and lemon juice.
- Adjust sweetness to taste if desired.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
- Toss the fried shrimp in the honey sauce until evenly coated.
- Gently fold in the candied walnuts.
- Serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles, garnished with green onions if desired.
Tips for the Best Honey Walnut Shrimp
Use Fresh Shrimp
Fresh shrimp provides the best texture and flavor, but frozen shrimp can also work if thawed and dried thoroughly.
Keep the Oil Hot
Maintaining the correct oil temperature ensures the shrimp fry up crispy and golden.
Customize the Sweetness
Adjust the amount of honey and condensed milk in the sauce to suit your taste.
Variations and Adaptations
Lightened-Up Version
Bake or air fry the shrimp instead of deep frying for a healthier alternative.
Nut-Free Option
Replace walnuts with sunflower seeds or omit entirely for a nut-free version.
Extra Veggies
Add steamed broccoli or snap peas for additional texture and flavor.
Nutritional Benefits of Honey Walnut Shrimp
- Protein-Packed: Shrimp is a lean source of high-quality protein.
- Rich in Omega-3s: Walnuts provide heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids.
- Customizable Nutrition: Adjust the sauce ingredients to lower sugar or fat content.
FAQs About Honey Walnut Shrimp
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It’s best served fresh, but you can prepare the candied walnuts and honey sauce in advance. Fry the shrimp just before serving.
What can I serve with Honey Walnut Shrimp?
Pair it with steamed jasmine rice, fried rice, or stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or oven to maintain crispness.
Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
Pre-cooked shrimp can be used, but the texture will differ. Skip frying and toss them directly in the sauce.
Conclusion: A Sweet and Savory Classic
Honey Walnut Shrimp is a dish that combines indulgence with elegance. Its crispy shrimp, candied walnuts, and creamy honey sauce make it a standout on any table. Perfect for special occasions or a treat-yourself dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. Gather your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and enjoy restaurant-quality Honey Walnut Shrimp at home!