There’s nothing quite like the crunch of candied walnuts paired with tender, succulent shrimp to elevate your dinner game. One evening, I found myself craving something fresher than fast food and decided to put a spin on an old favorite. That’s when I stumbled upon the delightful concept of Honey Walnut Shrimp.
With just a handful of ingredients and a mere 30 minutes, this dish takes on a comforting yet gourmet quality that leaves your taste buds singing in delight. The sweet, sticky glaze of honey and condensed milk creates a heavenly contrast against the crispy fried shrimp, while the crunch of the walnuts adds a wonderful texture.
Not only is this recipe easy to whip up, it’s also versatile enough to impress your family or a gathering of friends. Picture this: a hearty bowl of Honey Walnut Shrimp on your table, garnished with a sprinkle of green onions, showcasing a bright burst of flavor that will make everyone forget about that drive-thru. Trust me, everyone will be asking for seconds!
Why is Honey Walnut Shrimp a Must-Try?
Unforgettable flavor: The sweet honey glaze, combined with rich, creamy Japanese mayo, offers an indulgent taste profile that elevates any meal.
Simple preparation: With just 30 minutes required, you can easily transform your kitchen into a gourmet experience without the fuss.
Crispy delight: The combination of fried shrimp and candied walnuts provides an irresistible crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft shrimp.
Crowd pleaser: Perfect for dinner parties or family gatherings, this dish will leave everyone wanting more!
Healthier alternative: A delightful way to enjoy a fresh meal, this recipe is a refreshing break from the usual fast food routine. Immerse yourself in the joy of homemade cooking with this irresistible dish!
Honey Walnut Shrimp Ingredients
For the Shrimp
• 1 lb jumbo shrimp – peeled and deveined, these tender morsels are the star of your dish.
• ¼ teaspoon salt – enhances the natural sweetness of the shrimp.
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper – adds a touch of heat for balanced flavor.
• 4 egg whites – creates a light, airy batter that clings beautifully.
• ⅔ cup cornstarch – ensures a crisp coating that turns golden when fried.
For Frying
• 1 cup vegetable oil – choose a neutral oil for frying to complement the flavors of the shrimp.
For the Candied Walnuts
• ½ cup walnut halves – these nutty delights provide crunch and richness.
• 3 tablespoon white granulated sugar – sweetens the walnuts to create that irresistible candy coating.
• 1 tablespoon water – helps dissolve the sugar for an even candy crust.
For the Sauce
• ¼ cup Japanese mayo – contributes a creamy texture and unique flavor to the glaze.
• 3 tablespoon sweetened condensed milk – adds irresistible sweetness for the Honey Walnut Shrimp.
• 2 tablespoon honey – brings in that signature sweetness and ties the dish together.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice – brightens the flavors and cuts through the richness.
For Garnish
• 1 green onion – finely chopped, it adds a pop of color and freshness to your dish!
Get ready to savor the deliciousness of Honey Walnut Shrimp in your own kitchen!
How to Make Honey Walnut Shrimp
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Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the Japanese mayo, sweetened condensed milk, honey, and lemon juice. Set this delicious sauce aside to let the flavors meld together.
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Create the syrup: In a non-stick pan over medium heat, combine the sugar and water. Stir constantly until the mixture begins to simmer and forms a thick syrup, about 3-5 minutes.
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Coat the walnuts: Once the syrup thickens and can coat the back of your spatula, quickly add the walnut halves. Stir to ensure every walnut is evenly coated in the sweet syrup.
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Let them cool: Remove the pan from heat and transfer the candied walnuts onto parchment paper. Allow them to cool and harden as you continue with the shrimp.
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Season the shrimp: In a large bowl, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with salt and black pepper, ensuring they’re well-seasoned for optimal flavor.
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Make the batter: In a separate bowl, whisk the egg whites until frothy. Gradually add in the cornstarch, mixing until a runny paste forms that will beautifully coat the shrimp.
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Coat the shrimp: Add the seasoned shrimp to the egg mixture, tossing well to ensure each piece is completely coated in the light batter.
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Heat the oil: In a large pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350-375°F. You want it hot enough for crispy frying!
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Fry the shrimp: Add the shrimp in small batches to the hot oil, frying for 2-3 minutes until they are crispy and golden brown. Avoid overcrowding the pan.
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Drain the excess oil: Once fried, use a slotted spoon to remove the shrimp and transfer them to a wire rack or a paper towel-lined baking sheet to drain excess oil.
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Combine & garnish: In a large bowl, combine the crispy shrimp, candied walnuts, and the prepared sauce. Toss gently to coat everything evenly. Garnish with finely chopped green onions for a fresh touch!
Optional: Serve with steamed rice for a complete meal!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Honey Walnut Shrimp are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the candied walnuts and sauce up to 3 days in advance. Simply follow the instructions for making the syrup and coating the walnuts, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature for the best crunch. The sauce can be whisked together and refrigerated (just give it a good stir before serving to blend the flavors). When you’re ready to serve, season and batter the shrimp just before frying for that crispy texture. This way, you save time on busy weeknights while still enjoying fresh, delicious Honey Walnut Shrimp!
What to Serve with Honey Walnut Shrimp?
Imagine a bright, lively meal that will transport your taste buds and make your dinner table the talk of the evening.
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffy grains are the perfect canvas to soak up the sweet sauce and complement the shrimp’s delightful crunch.
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Garlic Sautéed Spinach: This vibrant green dish adds a fresh, earthy balance to the sweetness of the Honey Walnut Shrimp and elevates the meal’s nutrition.
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Crispy Spring Rolls: Crunchy on the outside and savory within, these rolls bring an exciting texture that pairs beautifully with the shrimp’s tender bite.
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Sesame Noodles: Tossed in a savory sauce, these noodles offer a delightful chewiness that contrasts well with the shrimp and walnuts.
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Coconut Curry Soup: The creamy, aromatic flavors of this soup can harmonize with the Honey Walnut Shrimp, making for an indulgent and comforting experience.
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Chilled Green Tea: Serve this refreshing beverage to cleanse the palate, enhancing the sweetness of the dish with its soothing undertones.
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Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, this tropical delight rounds off the meal perfectly, with its sweet and creamy flavor complementing the honeyed shrimp beautifully!
Honey Walnut Shrimp Variations
Customize your Honey Walnut Shrimp to suit your taste and dietary needs with these delicious ideas!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute cornstarch with tapioca flour for a crispy coating that’s gluten-free and fabulous.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the batter for a kick of heat that will surprise your palate.
- Nuts Mix: Try mixing in pecans or almonds for a delightful twist on texture—each nut brings a unique flavor!
- Soy Sauce Drizzle: Incorporate a splash of soy sauce in the glaze for a savory umami note that balances the sweetness beautifully.
- Vegetarian Version: Swap in crunchy, battered cauliflower for the shrimp; it soaks up the sauce while providing a delightful texture.
For an extra flourish, consider tossing in sesame seeds along with the walnuts. This adds a playful crunch and elevates the dish to new heights.
- Coconut Infusion: Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream in the sauce for a tropical, creamy twist that complements the shrimp perfectly.
- Herbal Accent: Fresh basil or cilantro can be used as a garnish to impart a fragrant herbal freshness that brightens up each bite.
Embrace the joy of cooking and let your creativity shine with these fun variations!
How to Store and Freeze Honey Walnut Shrimp
Fridge: Store any leftover Honey Walnut Shrimp in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on a skillet to keep the shrimp somewhat crispy.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked shrimp and candied walnuts separately in airtight containers. They can last up to 2 months in the freezer.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw the shrimp overnight in the fridge. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes for best results, ensuring crispy edges.
Freshness Tip: It’s best to enjoy this dish fresh. If preparing in advance, consider frying the shrimp just before serving to maintain that perfect crunch!
Expert Tips for Honey Walnut Shrimp
Avoid Overcooking: Ensure the shrimp are just cooked until golden brown for a juicy bite. Overcooking will make them tough.
Proper Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to make sure your oil is between 350-375°F. This helps achieve that perfect crispy texture without greasiness.
Coat Evenly: When mixing the shrimp in the batter, make sure every piece is well-coated. This helps the cornstarch adhere better, giving you that crunchy shell!
Don’t Rush the Walnuts: Let the candied walnuts cool completely before using. Rushing can result in a sticky mess instead of a sweet crunch.
Serve Fresh: Honey Walnut Shrimp is best enjoyed freshly made. Prepare the sauce and walnuts in advance, but fry the shrimp just before serving for maximum crispiness!
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to adjust the honey or lemon juice to match your personal taste. This Honey Walnut Shrimp recipe is versatile!
Honey Walnut Shrimp Recipe FAQs
What kind of shrimp should I use for Honey Walnut Shrimp?
Absolutely! For the best results, I recommend using jumbo shrimp that are already peeled and deveined. They have a tender texture and big flavor that works beautifully in this dish. Be sure to look for shrimp that are firm and slightly translucent with a subtle sea smell when fresh.
How should I store leftover Honey Walnut Shrimp?
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, I suggest using a skillet for a few minutes to revive that delicious crunch rather than microwaving, which may make the shrimp soggy.
Can I freeze Honey Walnut Shrimp?
Certainly! To freeze, place the cooked shrimp and candied walnuts in separate airtight containers. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw the shrimp overnight in the fridge, then reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes for that crispy texture!
What if my candied walnuts are sticky or not coating properly?
Very! If your walnuts are sticky, it might be due to not allowing the syrup to thicken enough before coating. Remember to stir constantly until it can coat the back of a spatula—about 3-5 minutes should do the trick. If you find they clump together, simply break them apart with a fork while they cool on the parchment paper.
Is this recipe safe for those with nut allergies?
While this delicious Honey Walnut Shrimp features walnuts, if you’re cooking for someone with a nut allergy, you might consider substituting nuts with something similar in texture, like seeds (pumpkin or sunflower seeds could work!). Just be sure to omit the walnuts entirely to ensure safety!
How can I ensure my shrimp are perfectly crispy?
To achieve perfectly crispy shrimp, heat your oil to the correct temperature (between 350-375°F) and fry in small batches, allowing the shrimp room to float and cook evenly. Avoid overcrowding the pan; it’s the secret to achieving that beautiful golden-brown crust!
Delicious Honey Walnut Shrimp Done Right at Home
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the Japanese mayo, sweetened condensed milk, honey, and lemon juice.
- Create the syrup: In a non-stick pan over medium heat, combine the sugar and water. Stir constantly until the mixture begins to simmer and forms a thick syrup, about 3-5 minutes.
- Coat the walnuts: Once the syrup thickens, quickly add the walnut halves and stir to coat evenly.
- Let them cool: Remove the pan from heat and transfer the candied walnuts onto parchment paper to cool.
- Season the shrimp: In a large bowl, toss the shrimp with salt and black pepper.
- Make the batter: In another bowl, whisk the egg whites until frothy, then add in the cornstarch to form a batter.
- Coat the shrimp: Add the shrimp to the batter, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
- Heat the oil: In a large pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat to 350-375°F.
- Fry the shrimp: Add the shrimp in small batches and fry for 2-3 minutes until crispy and golden brown.
- Drain excess oil: Use a slotted spoon to remove the shrimp and drain on a wire rack or paper towel.
- Combine & garnish: In a large bowl, mix the shrimp, candied walnuts, and prepared sauce. Toss gently and garnish with green onions.