There’s something truly special about preparing a homemade meal that captures the essence of your favorite takeout dish, and that’s exactly what I felt when I first whipped up this Crispy Honey Walnut Shrimp. This delightful recipe not only brings the classic flavors of Chinese cuisine right to your kitchen, but it also transforms dinner into a quick, indulgent experience that you can whip up in just 30 minutes! Imagine juicy, crispy shrimp enveloped in a creamy sauce, topped with a sprinkle of sweet, crunchy walnuts—what’s not to love? Perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself, this dish offers the best of both worlds: a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal that’s simpler than you think. Are you ready to dive into a world of flavor and satisfy that takeout craving right at home?
Why is Honey Walnut Shrimp a Must-Try?
Crispy Texture: The light, airy batter and perfectly fried shrimp create an irresistible crunch that elevates your dining experience.
Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes required, this delectable dish fits effortlessly into your busy week, making homemade meals simple and satisfying.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of creamy mayonnaise, sweet honey, and just a hint of heat from crushed red pepper flakes ensures every bite is bursting with flavor.
Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or substitute walnuts with sesame seeds for a unique twist, making this dish adaptable to your preferences.
Impress Your Guests: Whether it’s a cozy dinner or a gathering, this recipe is sure to wow everyone at the table, making it a standout option among homemade takeout alternatives.
Once you’ve tried this delightful dish, don’t miss our article on Honey Garlic Shrimp for more quick weeknight meal inspiration!
Honey Walnut Shrimp Ingredients
For the Candied Walnuts
• Walnut Halves – The key topping for sweetness and crunch; pecans can be a delicious alternative.
• Granulated Sugar – Adds the sweetness to the walnuts; consider using brown sugar for a richer flavor.
• Water – Essential for boiling the walnuts; this ingredient can’t be substituted, ensuring the right consistency.
For the Sauce
• Mayonnaise – Provides a creamy base for the sauce; Greek yogurt can offer a lighter choice.
• Honey – Infuses sweetness and depth into the sauce; feel free to swap with agave syrup for a vegan option.
• Condensed Milk – Brings richness to the sauce; coconut cream is a great dairy-free substitute.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – Adds a touch of heat and spice; adjust depending on your spice preference.
For the Shrimp
• Large Shrimp (peeled and deveined) – The star protein of the dish; use wild shrimp for optimal flavor.
• Egg Whites – Helps to create a light batter for frying; for a vegan version, an egg replacer works well.
• Cornstarch – Coats shrimp for a crispy texture; can substitute with arrowroot powder for a different take.
For Frying
• Vegetable Oil – Perfect for deep frying the shrimp; canola or peanut oil works as a substitute.
With this lineup of ingredients, you’re well on your way to preparing a dazzling plate of homemade honey walnut shrimp that’s sure to impress!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Honey Walnut Shrimp
Step 1: Heat the Oil
Begin by heating about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a medium deep skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). To test if it’s ready, drop a small amount of the shrimp batter in; it should sizzle immediately. This hot oil will ensure your honey walnut shrimp gets that perfectly crispy texture that everyone loves.
Step 2: Prepare the Walnuts
In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of water and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar. Add 1 cup of walnut halves and bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat for 2 minutes. Stay attentive, as this process caramelizes the walnuts. After boiling, drain and spread the walnuts on a paper towel to dry while you continue with the rest of the recipe.
Step 3: Mix the Sauce
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1/3 cup honey, and 1/4 cup condensed milk until smooth and creamy. For a kick of flavor, stir in a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes. Set this delightful and rich sauce aside for later, as it will beautifully complement the honey walnut shrimp.
Step 4: Prepare the Shrimp Batter
In a separate bowl, beat 2 egg whites until soft peaks form, resembling fluffy clouds. Gently fold in 1/2 cup of cornstarch, ensuring the mixture remains airy—the key to achieving that light and crispy batter. This step sets the stage for coating your shrimp, enhancing their texture as they fry.
Step 5: Coat the Shrimp
Take each large shrimp and dip it into the egg white mixture, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Allow any excess batter to drip off before carefully lowering the shrimp into the hot oil. Fry them in small batches for about 2-3 minutes until they turn golden brown. This method keeps the oil temperature steady and results in perfectly crispy honey walnut shrimp.
Step 6: Drain and Toss
Once fried, use a slotted spoon to transfer the shrimp to a paper towel-lined plate, allowing excess oil to drain off. While still hot, gently toss the crispy shrimp in the bowl with your prepared sauce until they’re well coated. This ensures that every bite bursts with the flavors of honey and a hint of spice.
Step 7: Finish with Candied Walnuts
To give your honey walnut shrimp that signature crunch, sprinkle the candied walnuts over the sauced shrimp. The sweet and crunchy topping complements the creamy shrimp and adds an irresistible texture contrast. Serve the dish immediately while it’s hot for the best flavor and texture experience, capturing the essence of your favorite takeout at home.
What to Serve with Honey Walnut Shrimp?
There’s nothing quite like creating a delicious spread that perfectly complements your homemade dish, bringing warmth and joy to your dining table.
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: A fragrant base that soaks up the creamy sauce beautifully, enhancing the overall meal experience.
- Garlic Broccoli: This dish adds a fresh and vibrant element while balancing out the sweetness of the shrimp, offering a nutritious and colorful side.
- Crispy Egg Rolls: Crunchy on the outside and filled with savory goodness inside, these make a wonderful starter that pairs seamlessly with the sweet shrimp.
- Asian Noodle Salad: A chilled salad with crunchy vegetables and a tangy dressing adds a delightful contrast and refreshes the palate.
- Honeydew Melon Salad: This juicy fruit salad is a refreshing palate cleanser, offsetting the richness of the shrimp and offering a bright flavor contrast.
- Iced Green Tea: Light and refreshing, this drink pairs well with the flavors of honey walnut shrimp while helping to cleanse the palate.
- Sesame Ginger Slaw: Tangy and crunchy, this slaw provides a zesty crunch that perfectly complements the rich, sweet shrimp.
- Almond Cookies: For dessert, these sweet treats are a charming finish, echoing the nutty elements of the dish while adding a delightful crunch.
- Chardonnay: A glass of this white wine pairs beautifully, enhancing the flavors of the shrimp while providing a crisp finish to the meal.
Expert Tips for Honey Walnut Shrimp
• Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh large shrimp provide the best flavor. If using frozen shrimp, ensure they are fully thawed for even cooking.
• Keep It Crispy: Avoid overcrowding the frying pan; fry the shrimp in batches to maintain the oil temperature and ensure a crispy coating.
• Sauce Timing: Toss the shrimp in sauce just before serving to avoid sogginess. This will help keep the dish fresh and crunchy for your guests.
• Perfectly Candied Walnuts: For an enhanced flavor, toast the walnuts in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes before boiling them; this adds depth to the sweetness.
• Adjust Spice: Feel free to adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes in the sauce based on your heat preference, ensuring every bite of your honey walnut shrimp is just right for you.
How to Store and Freeze Honey Walnut Shrimp
Fridge: Store any leftover honey walnut shrimp in an airtight container for up to 3 days. It’s best to keep the sauce separate to maintain the crispy texture of the shrimp.
Freezer: Freeze the cooked shrimp without the sauce in a sealed bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve flavor and texture.
Reheating: To reheat, place the shrimp in a hot skillet for a few minutes until warmed through, adding a splash of water to create steam and revive crispiness.
Make-Ahead: You can prepare the candied walnuts and sauce in advance. Store both in the fridge for up to 2 days, and simply reheat the sauce before serving on your freshly fried shrimp.
Make Ahead Options
These Honey Walnut Shrimp are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the candied walnuts and sauce up to 3 days in advance. To do this, boil the walnuts in water and sugar, then let them cool and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For the sauce, mix the mayonnaise, honey, condensed milk, and red pepper flakes, and refrigerate it until serving. Just before you’re ready to fry the shrimp, coat them with the egg white mixture and cornstarch, then fry them fresh for that unbeatable crispy texture. This way, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality dish without the last-minute rush!
Honey Walnut Shrimp Variations
Feel free to get a little creative with this recipe; let your culinary imagination run wild!
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Vegetable Boost: Add broccoli or sugar snap peas for a vibrant and nutritious pop of color and flavor. It’s a great way to sneak in some extra veggies.
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Spicy Kick: Mix in some minced fresh ginger or a splash of sriracha to the sauce for a zesty twist. This can elevate the flavors and give each bite a warming heat.
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Healthier Option: Swap mayonnaise for Greek yogurt to reduce calories and enhance protein content while keeping that creamy texture.
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Nutty Alternatives: Substitute walnuts with toasted pecans or sunflower seeds for a unique crunchy topping. Each nut offers a different flavor profile, so experiment to find your favorite!
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Crispy Variation: Instead of a standard batter, try coating the shrimp with panko breadcrumbs for an even crunchier texture. This also creates a beautifully golden finish.
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Sweet & Tangy: Drizzle a bit of orange or lime juice over the finished dish for a citrusy brightness that complements the sweetness perfectly.
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Taste of the East: Infuse your sauce with hoisin sauce or soy sauce for an authentic flavor that plays nicely with the sweetness of the honey.
Once you’ve whipped up your best version of Honey Walnut Shrimp, enjoy it alongside some delicious rice or pair it with our Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese for a fuller meal experience that everyone will adore!
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Honey Walnut Shrimp Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing shrimp, look for large shrimp that are wild-caught when possible, as they tend to have better flavor and texture. Make sure the shrimp are firm to the touch and free from any dark spots or off-putting odors. If buying frozen, ensure they’re fully thawed before cooking for even coziness.
What is the best way to store leftovers?
For sure! Store any leftover honey walnut shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best to keep the sauce separate to maintain the shrimp’s crispy texture. When ready to eat, reheat in a skillet or microwave, but be mindful that the shrimp won’t be quite as crunchy as when freshly made.
How can I freeze honey walnut shrimp?
Yes, you can! To freeze, allow the cooked shrimp to cool completely, then position them in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer for about 2 hours. Once they are firm, transfer the shrimp to a resealable freezer bag or a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best flavor and texture.
Why did my shrimp turn out soggy?
Very frustrating! If the shrimp turned out soggy, it could be due to overcrowding the frying pan, which lowers the oil temperature and causes stewing instead of frying. To ensure crispiness, fry shrimp in small batches and make sure the batter is light and airy. Toss the shrimp in sauce only right before serving to keep that crispy goodness intact!
Can I make any substitutions for dietary needs?
Of course! This recipe is quite adaptable. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or an egg replacer for the shrimp batter for a vegan version. And if you’re allergic to walnuts, feel free to use toasted sesame seeds instead for that delightful crunch without the allergen risk.
How do I know when the shrimp are done frying?
I’d be happy to clarify! Fry the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes until they turn a beautiful golden brown color. You can tell they’re done when they’re floating to the surface of the oil, crispy, and looking delicious. Using a thermometer is also handy; the internal temperature should reach 120°F (49°C). Enjoy!
Sweet and Crunchy Honey Walnut Shrimp You Can Make at Home
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a medium deep skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
- In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of water and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar. Add 1 cup of walnut halves and boil for 2 minutes. Drain and spread walnuts to dry.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1/3 cup honey, and 1/4 cup condensed milk until smooth. Stir in crushed red pepper flakes.
- Beat 2 egg whites in a separate bowl until soft peaks form. Gently fold in 1/2 cup of cornstarch.
- Dip each shrimp into the egg white mixture, coating well. Fry in small batches for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
- Transfer the fried shrimp to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Toss in the sauce until well coated.
- Sprinkle the candied walnuts over the sauced shrimp and serve immediately.
