Honey walnut shrimp is a dish that combines the sweetness of honey, the creaminess of a savory sauce, and the crunch of fried shrimp and walnuts. This delightful recipe brings together both familiar and exotic flavors, making it a favorite for special occasions and weeknight dinners alike. You’ll enjoy how easily it comes together in your kitchen while impressing everyone at your table.
Why We Love This Honey Walnut Shrimp
This honey walnut shrimp recipe stands out for its perfect balance of flavors and textures. The shrimp gets a lovely golden crisp, while the walnuts provide a satisfying crunch. The sauce delivers a sweet and creamy taste that coats every bite, bringing everything together beautifully. You can whip this dish up in no time, making it a great choice for busy evenings when you still want something delicious. The use of simple ingredients keeps it approachable, and the end result feels indulgent. Plus, it’s a dish that draws from both Asian and Western culinary traditions, making it appealing to a variety of palates. You’ll love watching your family and friends enjoy this stunning meal.
Ingredients for Honey Walnut Shrimp
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup walnuts
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweetened condensed milk
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- Vegetable oil for frying
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
Start by preparing the walnuts. In a small saucepan, combine water and sugar, and bring it to a boil over medium heat. Stir until the sugar has dissolved completely. Add the walnuts and cook for about 2-3 minutes, then drain them.
In another saucepan, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the drained walnuts to the hot oil and fry until they turn golden brown. Remove them and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweetened condensed milk, and lemon juice. Set it aside.
Season the shrimp with salt and pepper. Dredge each shrimp in cornstarch, shaking off any excess.
Fry the shrimp in the hot oil in batches, cooking until they turn crispy and golden. This should take about 2-3 minutes per side. Once cooked, set them aside on paper towels to drain.
In a large bowl, combine the fried shrimp with the sauce. Mix gently until the shrimp are well coated. Finally, fold in the toasted walnuts.
Serve immediately, garnished with chopped green onions.
How to Serve Honey Walnut Shrimp
Serving honey walnut shrimp is all about presentation and pairing. You can serve the dish on a large platter or individual plates. To enhance the visual appeal, consider placing a bed of steamed rice or sautéed vegetables as a base before adding the shrimp. The bright colors of the green onions and golden shrimp will look beautiful against the white rice or vibrant veggies. You might also like to add some sesame seeds on top for extra crunch and flavor. Alongside, offer a simple side of stir-fried broccoli or snap peas for a fresh contrast.
If you want to add a little more flair, you could prepare a light dipping sauce made from soy sauce mixed with a hint of sesame oil. This gives your guests the option to dip their shrimp for an extra flavor boost. Whether for a festive occasion or an everyday meal, your honey walnut shrimp will undoubtedly shine on the table as a crowd-pleaser.
Expert Tips for Honey Walnut Shrimp
To ensure your honey walnut shrimp turns out perfectly every time, follow these expert tips. First, selecting the right shrimp makes a big difference. Fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp work best. Look for shrimp that are firm to the touch and have a mild scent.
When frying, ensure your oil is at the optimal temperature, around 350°F (175°C). If the oil is too cool, the shrimp will absorb too much oil and become greasy. If it’s too hot, the coating may burn before the shrimp are cooked inside. Fry in small batches to maintain the oil temperature.
Also, consider adjusting the sweetness of the sauce based on your taste preferences. You can add more or less honey depending on how sweet you want the dish. Finally, for an added depth of flavor, some people incorporate a touch of garlic or ginger into the sauce. This can create an aromatic element that enhances the dish.
How to Store Honey Walnut Shrimp
If you have leftovers of your honey walnut shrimp, proper storage is key to keeping it fresh. Place the shrimp in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. The dish will generally keep well for about 2 to 3 days. When reheating, try using an oven or air fryer to keep the shrimp crispy. Microwaving may cause the shrimp to become soggy.
If you want to freeze the dish, do so before adding the walnuts. You can freeze the shrimp in a container, and they will keep for about a month. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before frying the walnuts and combining everything. This way, you’ll have a meal ready to go without losing any of that delightful flavor or texture.
Variations of Honey Walnut Shrimp
While the classic honey walnut shrimp is a favorite, you can easily customize it to suit your preferences. For a bit of heat, consider adding freshly minced chili peppers or a dash of chili sauce to the sauce mix. This adds a delightful spicy kick that complements the dish well.
You might also experiment by swapping shrimp for another protein, such as chicken or tofu, for a different texture and flavor profile. For a healthier version, try baking the shrimp instead of frying them to reduce the oil used. Simply brush them with a bit of oil and bake until crispy.
If you enjoy nuts, you can use different varieties like pecans or almonds instead of walnuts. Each nut brings its flavor, leading to a unique interpretation of the dish. You might also add vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for added color and nutrition, giving the dish a bulkier feel while enhancing the presentation.
FAQ about Honey Walnut Shrimp
What is honey walnut shrimp?
Honey walnut shrimp is a popular dish that features fried shrimp coated in a sweet and creamy sauce made from honey and mayonnaise, topped with candied walnuts.
How do you make the sauce for honey walnut shrimp?
To make the sauce, you mix mayonnaise, sweetened condensed milk, and lemon juice. This combination provides a rich and creamy base that perfectly coats the shrimp.
Can you freeze honey walnut shrimp?
Yes! You can freeze honey walnut shrimp before adding the walnuts. Thaw it in the refrigerator when you’re ready to eat, then cook the walnuts separately before combining.
What is the best way to reheat honey walnut shrimp?
The best way to reheat honey walnut shrimp is in an oven or air fryer to maintain its crispy texture. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the shrimp soggy.
Can you use other types of nuts in honey walnut shrimp?
Absolutely! While walnuts are traditional, you can substitute with pecans or almonds for a different flavor and texture experience.