As I stood in my kitchen, the sweet aroma of candied walnuts sizzling in butter took me right back to my favorite Chinese takeout spot. This Honey Walnut Shrimp recipe is a delightful twist on that beloved classic, marrying crispy shrimp with a creamy sauce and crunchy walnuts that will make your taste buds dance. The best part? It’s a quick and easy dish, perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something more than just fast food. Plus, you can impress your friends at gatherings with this homemade takeout favorite that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Curious about how to whip this up in just a few simple steps? Let’s dive in!
Why is Honey Walnut Shrimp a Must-Try?
Crispy, Creamy Delight: Enjoy shrimp that have a golden, crispy exterior enveloped in a rich and creamy sauce. This dish elevates your dinner table with flavors reminiscent of a favorite takeout classic.
Quick and Easy: Whip up this meal in under 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re serving it for family dinner or a gathering, it’s an instant hit that dazzles everyone at the table.
Versatile Options: Feel free to make it lighter with a yogurt swap or add veggies for a stir-fry twist to suit your preferences.
Nostalgic Flavor: The sweet candied walnuts bring back memories of that cozy Chinese restaurant you love.
Pair this dish with Sweet Harmony Honey for a complete meal experience!
Honey Walnut Shrimp Ingredients
For the Shrimp
- Large Shrimp (21/25) – Choose fresh, butterflied shrimp for the best texture and crispiness.
- Egg – Use egg whites for an extra crunchy coating, or a whole egg if you prefer.
- Onion Powder – Adds a savory flavor; a touch goes a long way!
- Soy Sauce – Use for flavoring the batter, or opt for a low-sodium version if desired.
- Cornstarch – The secret to achieving that irresistible crispy coating on the shrimp.
For the Candied Walnuts
- Walnuts – Offers a nutty crunch and sweet note; rinse them to eliminate bitterness!
- Oil – High smoke point oil like vegetable or canola is ideal for frying.
- Sugar (or Honey) – Sweetness essential for candied walnuts; sugar makes them crunchier than honey.
- Butter – Creates a syrupy glaze that enhances the walnut flavor.
For the Creamy Sauce
- Mayonnaise (or Kewpie Mayo) – Forms the creamy base; greek yogurt is a lighter option!
- Sweetened Condensed Milk – Provides sweetness and creaminess; honey can be a non-dairy substitute.
- Rice Vinegar – Brings balance and acidity to the sauce; optional based on your taste.
For Garnish
- Green Onion – Adds a fresh, mild flavor; chop finely for garnish and color.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Honey Walnut Shrimp
Step 1: Prepare Candied Walnuts
Begin by boiling water in a small pot. Once boiling, submerge the walnuts and rinse them until the water is clear to remove any bitterness, about 2 to 3 minutes. In a skillet over medium-low heat, toast the walnuts in a little oil for about 5 minutes until fragrant. Add sugar and butter, stirring continuously until the mixture becomes syrupy and golden brown. Transfer the candied walnuts to parchment paper to cool.
Step 2: Make Sauce
In a medium mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, sweetened condensed milk (or honey), rice vinegar, and soy sauce. Whisk until smooth and creamy, ensuring all components are well blended. This sauce will provide that delicious creamy flavor essential to your Honey Walnut Shrimp. Set the sauce aside while you prepare the shrimp.
Step 3: Prepare Shrimp
Thaw the large shrimp if frozen, and butterfly them for maximum crispiness. Pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel, then coat them in a mixture of beaten egg (or egg whites), a sprinkle of onion powder, and soy sauce. Ensure each piece is evenly coated but not dripping, as this will enhance the shrimp’s crispiness when fried.
Step 4: Coat Shrimp
Dredge each shrimp in cornstarch, ensuring a complete and even coating. This crucial step is what gives your Honey Walnut Shrimp that perfect crispy texture once fried. Shake off any excess cornstarch gently, making sure the shrimp are thoroughly covered, especially on the butterflied sides.
Step 5: Fry Shrimp
Heat oil in a deep skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat until it reaches about 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the shrimp in small batches, frying them for about 2 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and crispy. For an extra crunch, consider double frying the shrimp for an additional 30 seconds per batch before draining them on paper towels.
Step 6: Combine
Allow the fried shrimp to cool slightly for about 2 minutes, ensuring they maintain their crispy texture. In a large bowl, toss the shrimp with the prepared creamy sauce, adding in the candied walnuts and finely chopped green onions for an added burst of flavor and visual appeal. Serve your Honey Walnut Shrimp immediately, perhaps over a bed of rice for a complete meal.
Make Ahead Options
These Honey Walnut Shrimp are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to save precious time during busy weekdays. You can prepare the candied walnuts and the creamy sauce up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store the walnuts in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their crunch, while the sauce should be refrigerated. To save even more time, coat the thawed and butterflied shrimp in the egg and cornstarch mixture up to 3 hours before frying. When you’re ready to serve, simply fry the shrimp until golden brown and toss them in the prepared sauce with the walnuts and green onions. This way, you’ll enjoy ease and convenience without sacrificing taste!
Honey Walnut Shrimp Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to explore these delightful twists and tweaks that will make your Honey Walnut Shrimp experience even more personal and exciting!
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Pecans: Swap walnuts for pecans to imbue a different nutty flavor that complements the sweetness beautifully. The subtle variations in taste will awaken your palate and offer a fresh spin on the classic dish.
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Veggies Boost: Add in vibrant veggies like broccoli or bell peppers for a colorful, healthy stir-fry version. Not only will they introduce varied textures, but they also brighten up your plate with a splash of color.
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Greek Yogurt: For a lighter sauce, replace the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. This offers a creamy texture with a tangy kick, perfect for those looking for healthier alternatives.
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Honey Instead of Sugar: Use honey for the candied walnuts instead of sugar. Not only does honey add a lovely depth of flavor, but it also gives a unique chewiness to the walnuts that brings comfort to each bite.
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Spicy Twist: Add a touch of sriracha or red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick. The heat will beautifully contrast with the creamy sweetness, creating an exhilarating flavor explosion that dance on your taste buds—a delightful twist!
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Coconut Flakes: For a tropical flair, toss some toasted coconut flakes into the sauce or as a garnish. This adds a lovely crunch and hints of sweetness, making your dish even more inviting.
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Cauliflower or Tofu: To make this dish vegan-friendly, substitute shrimp with crispy fried cauliflower or tofu. Both options absorb the sauce beautifully while maintaining satisfying textures.
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Ginger Infusion: Incorporate fresh grated ginger into your sauce for an aromatic zing! This adds warmth and depth to your dish, elevating it to new culinary heights.
For an exquisite pairing, consider serving your Honey Walnut Shrimp alongside Garlic Butter Shrimp for a delightful seafood feast that embraces the sweetness of honey and the savory goodness of garlic.
What to Serve with Honey Walnut Shrimp
To create a complete meal that perfectly balances the crispy, creamy flavors of honey walnut shrimp, consider these delightful pairings.
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fragrant rice provides a comforting base that absorbs the delicious creamy sauce, enhancing every bite.
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Stir-Fried Vegetables: A colorful medley of bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas adds freshness to your plate while maintaining a satisfying crunch.
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Mango Salad: This vibrant dish provides a sweet and tangy contrast, brightening the dining experience while offering a refreshing burst of flavor.
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Hot and Sour Soup: The warm, savory soup complements the sweetness of the honey walnut shrimp, creating a deliciously balanced meal.
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Spring Rolls: These crispy rolls filled with fresh veggies are perfect for dipping in a sweet chili sauce, echoing the fun flavors of your main dish.
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Chilled Sake: A refreshing drink option, chilled sake enhances the meal’s flavors with its clean taste, perfect for sipping alongside the shrimp.
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Sesame Noodles: Tossed in a savory dressing, these noodles bring a delightful chewiness, contrasting nicely with the crunch of the shrimp.
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Chocolate Fortune Cookies: End your meal on a sweet note! The crispiness of these cookies complements the richness of the shrimp while also adding a fun surprise.
Expert Tips for Honey Walnut Shrimp
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Shrimp Quality: Use high-quality, fresh shrimp for the best texture and flavor; frozen shrimp can also work if properly thawed.
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Proper Coating: Make sure to shake off excess cornstarch before frying to achieve an even crispy texture; too much can create a gummy coating.
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Frying Temperature: Maintain a consistent frying temperature (around 350°F or 175°C) to prevent greasiness; if the oil is too cool, the shrimp will absorb it.
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Sauce Balance: Adjust the sauce ingredients to your taste; if you prefer a sweeter sauce, add more sweetened condensed milk, but be mindful of the creamy texture.
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Walnut Preparation: Rinse walnuts thoroughly before toasting to ensure they’re not bitter, enhancing the overall flavor of your Honey Walnut Shrimp.
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Immediate Serving: Serve your Honey Walnut Shrimp right away to enjoy the perfect contrast of crispy shrimp and creamy sauce; delayed serving can lead to sogginess.
How to Store and Freeze Honey Walnut Shrimp
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the shrimp separate from the sauce to maintain crispiness.
Freezer: If freezing, place the cooled shrimp and candied walnuts in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 1 month; however, freezing may affect the crisp texture.
Reheating: Reheat in a hot skillet over medium heat for about 3-5 minutes to help retain crispiness. Avoid microwaving as this may result in sogginess.
Serving Tips: If reheating from frozen, thaw first in the fridge overnight for best results. Enjoy your Honey Walnut Shrimp as a quick meal anytime!
Honey Walnut Shrimp Recipe FAQs
What type of shrimp should I use for the best results?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, I recommend using large shrimp, specifically sizes 21/25. Look for shrimp that are fresh and have a nice sheen. If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them properly and pat them dry to ensure they fry up crispy.
How should I store leftover Honey Walnut Shrimp?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To maintain crispiness, keep the shrimp separate from the creamy sauce. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat the shrimp in a hot skillet for about 3-5 minutes; this will help to revive their crunchiness!
Can I freeze Honey Walnut Shrimp?
Yes, you can freeze Honey Walnut Shrimp! To freeze, allow the shrimp and candied walnuts to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can last in the freezer for up to 1 month. When ready to reheat, I suggest thawing them overnight in the fridge first to ensure the best texture when reheated.
What should I do if my shrimp turns out soggy?
Very! If your shrimp turns out soggy, it could be due to either overcrowding in the frying pan or the oil temperature being too low. To rectify this, ensure you fry the shrimp in batches to avoid overcrowding, and maintain the oil temperature at around 350°F (175°C). Additionally, make sure to shake off excess cornstarch before frying; too much can lead to a gummy texture instead of crispy.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Of course! If you’re preparing Honey Walnut Shrimp for guests, consider allergies. Shellfish allergies are common, so be sure to ask your friends or family members beforehand. For alternatives, you can use chicken instead of shrimp, and for a lighter sauce, swap the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt or a vegan option. Also, a reminder to rinse your walnuts well to remove any bitterness!
Crispy Honey Walnut Shrimp That Beats Takeout Any Day
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare Candied Walnuts: Boil water and rinse walnuts until clear, then toast in a skillet for 5 minutes. Add sugar and butter until syrupy, then cool on parchment paper.
- Make Sauce: Combine mayonnaise, sweetened condensed milk, rice vinegar, and soy sauce in a bowl; whisk until smooth.
- Prepare Shrimp: Thaw and butterfly shrimp, pat dry, then coat in egg mixture with onion powder and soy sauce.
- Coat Shrimp: Dredge shrimp in cornstarch; ensure even coverage and shake off excess.
- Fry Shrimp: Heat oil to 350°F and fry shrimp for 2 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Combine: Toss fried shrimp with creamy sauce, candied walnuts, and green onions. Serve immediately.
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