Honey Walnut Shrimp is a beloved dish offering a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors with a satisfying crunch. This easy-to-follow recipe brings restaurant-quality shrimp dinner recipes right to your kitchen, perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. You’ll love how simple it is to create this impressive dish.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Shrimp: Use large, peeled, and deveined shrimp. Frozen works well, just thaw completely.
- Walnuts: Candied walnuts are traditional, but plain toasted walnuts also add great texture.
- Mayonnaise: Full-fat mayo creates the richest sauce; light mayo can be used for a lighter version.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: Essential for the classic sweet and creamy sauce. There isn’t a direct substitute for its unique texture and sweetness.
- Honey: Adds an extra layer of sweetness and flavor. Maple syrup can be a decent alternative.
Ingredients:
For the Walnuts:
- 1 cup walnut halves
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup water
For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 large egg white
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- Oil for frying (vegetable, canola, or peanut oil)
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweetened condensed milk
- 1 tablespoon honey
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: Approximately 450-500 kcal
- Tools Needed: Large skillet or wok, mixing bowls, whisk, slotted spoon, parchment paper.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Candied Walnuts
Combine sugar and water in a small saucepan. Bring it to a boil, then add the walnuts. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the water evaporates and the walnuts are coated. Spread them on parchment paper to cool and harden.
2. Coat the Shrimp
In a medium bowl, whisk the egg white until foamy. Add the shrimp and toss to coat. Then, add the cornstarch and toss again until each shrimp is evenly covered.
3. Fry the Shrimp
Heat about 2-3 inches of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat (350°F / 175°C). Carefully add the shrimp in batches, without overcrowding the pan. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
4. Make the Honey Sauce
While the shrimp fries, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweetened condensed milk, and honey in a large bowl. Mix until smooth and well combined.
5. Combine and Serve
Add the fried shrimp to the bowl with the honey sauce. Gently toss until all the shrimp are coated. Stir in the candied walnuts. Serve immediately over rice or with a side of steamed vegetables for a complete shrimp dinner.
Variation Ideas:
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of sriracha to the sauce for a little heat.
- Citrus Brightness: Include a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest in the sauce for a fresh flavor.
- Sesame Infusion: Drizzle a tiny bit of toasted sesame oil into the sauce or sprinkle with sesame seeds before serving.
Storage Instructions:
Store any leftover Honey Walnut Shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until just warmed through. Be aware that the shrimp and walnuts may lose some of their crispness upon reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
- Can you use smaller shrimp? Yes, but adjust cooking time. Smaller shrimp cook faster, so watch them closely to avoid overcooking.
- What if you don’t have cornstarch? You can use all-purpose flour, but cornstarch provides a crispier coating.
- Can you bake the shrimp instead of frying? Baking can be done, but the texture won’t be as crispy as fried shrimp. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes.
- Is this dish good for meal prep? It’s best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers are still tasty. The texture changes slightly after refrigeration.
- What can you serve with Honey Walnut Shrimp? Steamed white rice, brown rice, or a simple green salad are excellent accompaniments to this shrimp dinner.
- Can you make the candied walnuts ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the candied walnuts up to a day in advance and store them in an airtight container at room temperature.