Honey Walnut Shrimp

Discover the perfect blend of sweet and crispy with Honey Walnut Shrimp, a delicious dish that’s easy to make and impossible to resist! This exquisite recipe combines tender, battered shrimp coated in a luscious honey glaze, paired with crunchy candied walnuts for a delightful texture contrast. It’s a popular favorite for a reason, melding simple ingredients into a flavor-packed experience that feels indulgent yet approachable. Whether you’re a seafood lover or simply looking to try something new, Honey Walnut Shrimp offers an unforgettable taste that brightens any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Sweet and Savory Harmony: The honey glaze perfectly balances the natural sweetness of shrimp with a subtle savory note.
• Crispy Texture Delight: Lightly battered shrimp maintain a crunchy exterior while staying juicy inside.
• Easy to Prepare: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this dish beginner-friendly.
• Elegant Presentation: The candied walnuts add a gourmet touch that makes it suitable for special occasions.
• Versatile Flavor Profile: Ideal for pairing with a variety of sides, from steamed rice to fresh veggies.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in Honey Walnut Shrimp is carefully chosen to build layers of flavor and texture, making the dish as visually pleasing as it is delicious. These essentials are easy to find and work together to create that signature sweet-crisp finish.

• Fresh Shrimp: Peeled and deveined, they form the succulent base of the dish.
• Walnuts: Toasted and candied, these add irresistible crunch and sweetness.
• Honey: The star sweetener that brings richness and a glossy finish to the shrimp.
• Mayonnaise: Adds creaminess that helps the sauce adhere perfectly.
• Condensed Milk: Provides subtle sweetness and enhances the smooth sauce texture.
• Cornstarch or Flour: Used to coat the shrimp before frying, ensuring a crispy bite.
• Egg Whites: Help create a light batter that crisps beautifully.
• Sugar and Water: Combined to candy the walnuts for that signature crunch.
• Lemon Juice or Vinegar: A small splash balances the sweetness with subtle acidity.

Variations for Honey Walnut Shrimp

The beauty of Honey Walnut Shrimp is how easily it adapts to your mood, pantry, or dietary needs. Feel free to customize and make this classic dish your own.

• Swap Shrimp for Chicken: Use bite-sized chicken pieces for a meaty twist without losing the sweet and crispy charm.
• Use Different Nuts: Try candied pecans or almonds if walnuts aren’t your favorite or if you want a new crunch.
• Make it Healthier: Bake the shrimp instead of frying to reduce oil usage while keeping flavor intact.
• Add Spice: Incorporate a pinch of chili flakes or a drizzle of sriracha for a gentle heat kick.
• Dairy-Free Version: Substitute mayonnaise with vegan mayo and skip condensed milk using coconut cream for creaminess.

How to Make Honey Walnut Shrimp

Step 1: Candy the Walnuts

Begin by preparing the candied walnuts. Combine sugar and water in a pan over medium heat until the sugar dissolves, then toss in the walnuts and cook until they’re glossy and caramelized. Let them cool on parchment paper to harden into a crunchy topping.

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp Batter

Whisk egg whites lightly, then coat the peeled shrimp in cornstarch or flour for a fine, even crust. The batter is key for achieving that perfect crispy texture once fried.

Step 3: Fry the Shrimp

Heat oil to a medium-high temperature and fry the shrimp in batches until golden and crisp. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil but keep the crunch intact.

Step 4: Make the Honey Sauce

In a separate bowl, mix mayonnaise, honey, condensed milk, and a splash of lemon juice or vinegar. This creamy sauce ties the entire dish together with balanced sweetness and tang.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Gently toss the fried shrimp with the honey sauce until fully coated, then top with the candied walnuts. Serve immediately to preserve texture and flavor.

Pro Tips for Making Honey Walnut Shrimp

• Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp offer better flavor and texture than frozen, but if frozen, thaw fully before cooking.
• Maintain Oil Temperature: Keeping the oil between 350°F and 375°F ensures the shrimp cook evenly without absorbing too much oil.
• Don’t Overcoat Shrimp: A light dusting of cornstarch or flour is enough to create crispiness without heaviness.
• Prepare Walnuts First: Candied walnuts cool and harden quickly, so make them before frying the shrimp to save time.
• Toss Shrimp Gently: Mixing the shrimp with sauce using a light hand keeps the crisp coating intact.

How to Serve Honey Walnut Shrimp

Garnishes

Fresh chopped scallions or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds add color and subtle flavor, enhancing both the look and taste of Honey Walnut Shrimp.

Side Dishes

Steamed jasmine rice or fluffy white rice complements the dish perfectly by soaking up the sweet sauce, while simple stir-fried greens provide a fresh contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

For a wow factor, serve the shrimp in crispy lettuce cups or over a bed of crunchy shredded cabbage. A drizzle of extra honey or a side of citrus wedges brightens the entire meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Honey Walnut Shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To maintain texture, store the candied walnuts separately.

Freezing

While not ideal due to the crispy coating, you can freeze cooked shrimp without sauce for up to one month. Thaw thoroughly before reheating and add sauce fresh to keep flavors vibrant.

Reheating

Reheat shrimp in a skillet over medium heat rather than the microwave to preserve some crunch. Add sauce afterward to avoid sogginess and sprinkle reserved candied walnuts on top.

FAQs

What type of shrimp works best for Honey Walnut Shrimp?

Medium to large shrimp that are peeled and deveined work best, as they hold the batter well and provide a satisfying bite without overcooking quickly.

Can I make Honey Walnut Shrimp gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute regular flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend to keep the dish crispy and safe for gluten-sensitive diets.

Is the dish very sweet?

The sweetness is balanced by the creamy mayo sauce and a hint of acidity from lemon or vinegar, creating a rich yet harmonious flavor rather than overpowering sugariness.

How long does it take to prepare Honey Walnut Shrimp?

From start to finish, including candied walnuts and frying, expect about 30 to 40 minutes, making it a quick yet impressive meal choice.

Can I use pre-made candied walnuts?

You can, but homemade candied walnuts fresh from the stove offer a better texture and customized sweetness that enhances the overall dish.

Final Thoughts

Honey Walnut Shrimp is a shining example of how simple ingredients and a few thoughtful steps come together to form a truly unforgettable dish. Whether for a weeknight treat or a special gathering, this recipe invites you to enjoy a perfect mix of sweet, crispy, and creamy sensations. Give it a go — your taste buds will thank you!

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