As I stood in my kitchen, the salty sea air wafting in through the window, I couldn’t help but reminisce about my favorite take-out meals, especially the beloved Honey Walnut Shrimp. This dish brings together crispy, tender shrimp and a luscious, creamy sauce, topped with sweet candied walnuts—each bite is a delightful trip down memory lane. The beauty of my homemade version? It’s not only quick and easy to whip up but also allows me to customize flavors to suit my cravings, making it a healthier alternative to restaurant dining. Plus, it turns any dinner into a special occasion, perfect for impressing friends or just treating myself. Are you ready to recreate this classic dish in your own kitchen?
Why is Honey Walnut Shrimp a Must-Try?
Crispy Texture: Each shrimp is fried to golden perfection, delivering an irresistible crunch.
Sweet & Savory Flavor: The creamy sauce balances sweet notes from honey and condensed milk, making every bite delightful.
Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to adjust the sauce to your liking or swap walnuts for pecans to suit your palate.
Quick Preparation: This recipe is perfect for a busy night, offering gourmet taste without hours in the kitchen.
Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Serve it at gatherings, and watch your guests rave about your culinary skills—especially when paired with steamed broccoli for a complete meal. If you love dreamy shrimp dishes, you may also enjoy my Bang Bang Shrimp or the comforting Shrimp Pasta as fantastic alternatives!
Honey Walnut Shrimp Ingredients
For the Candied Walnuts
• Walnut Halves – Adds crunch and flavor; can be substituted with pecans for a different nutty profile.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the candied walnuts, enhancing their delightful taste.
• Water – Helps with boiling the walnuts to create that perfect candied texture.
For the Sauce
• Mayonnaise – Forms the creamy base of the sauce; for a lighter option, swap with Greek yogurt.
• Honey – Provides sweetness; can be substituted with agave syrup if desired.
• Condensed Milk – Adds richness to the sauce; feel free to omit for a lower-calorie option, adjusting sweetness accordingly.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – Adds a hint of spice; adjust based on your heat preference.
For the Shrimp
• Large Shrimp (peeled and deveined) – The star ingredient; wild-caught is preferable for a richer flavor.
• Cornstarch – Creates a light, crisp batter for frying; no direct substitute is suggested.
• Egg Whites – Provides structure for the batter; substitute with aquafaba for a vegan version.
• Vegetable Oil – Essential for frying; make sure it’s hot for that perfect crispy texture.
With these ingredients, you’re well on your way to creating a stunningly delicious Honey Walnut Shrimp right in your kitchen!
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). Use a thermometer for accuracy, as the right temperature is crucial for achieving that crispy texture in your Honey Walnut Shrimp. While the oil heats, you can prepare the candied walnuts.
Step 2: Candy the Walnuts
In a small saucepan, bring 1 cup of water to a boil, then add in 1 cup of granulated sugar and the walnut halves. Boil for approximately 2 minutes until the walnuts begin to soften and absorb the syrup. After boiling, carefully transfer the walnuts to a parchment-lined baking sheet to dry, creating a sweet coating that will bring a delightful crunch to your dish.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together ½ cup of mayonnaise, ¼ cup of honey, ¼ cup of condensed milk, and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes. Mix until the ingredients are well combined and smooth, setting the stage for the creamy coating in your Honey Walnut Shrimp. Once ready, set this bowl aside while you move on to the shrimp.
Step 4: Make the Batter
In a separate mixing bowl, add 2 large egg whites and ½ cup of cornstarch. Using a handheld mixer, beat the mixture until soft peaks form, which will give your shrimp a light, airy batter. This step is critical for creating that perfect crunch when frying your Honey Walnut Shrimp, so ensure everything is well incorporated.
Step 5: Fry the Shrimp
Once the oil is hot, dip each large shrimp into the prepared batter, allowing any excess to drip off. Carefully place the battered shrimp into the oil and fry for 2-3 minutes or until they turn a beautiful golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to remove the shrimp from the oil, letting them drain on paper towels, ensuring they maintain that crispy exterior.
Step 6: Combine and Serve
In a large bowl, gently toss the fried shrimp with the creamy sauce until they are evenly coated. This final step is where the magic happens, as the sauce envelops each shrimp in rich flavor. Serve immediately, garnished with the candied walnuts on top to enhance both presentation and crunch, making your Honey Walnut Shrimp a delightful homemade take-out experience!
Make Ahead Options
Prepare for a delightful dinner with Honey Walnut Shrimp by making key components ahead of time! You can easily make the candied walnuts and the creamy sauce up to 3 days in advance. Simply store the cooled candied walnuts in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their crispness, while the sauce should be refrigerated until you’re ready to use it. On the day of serving, fry the shrimp right before you toss them in the sauce for that perfect crispy texture. This way, you’ll enjoy restaurant-quality flavors with minimal effort, making dinnertime a breeze for your busy weeknights!
Expert Tips for Honey Walnut Shrimp
• Wild-Caught Shrimp: Using wild-caught shrimp enhances flavor and offers health benefits, making your Honey Walnut Shrimp taste better.
• Perfect Oil Temperature: Ensure the oil reaches 350°F before frying; if it’s too cool, the shrimp won’t crisp up properly.
• Double Fry for Extra Crispiness: For an even crispier texture, consider frying the shrimp twice—first for 2 minutes, then for an additional minute after draining.
• Toast the Walnuts: Enhance the crunch by lightly toasting the walnuts in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes after candying.
• Sauce on the Side: If serving at parties, keep the sauce separate to maintain the crispiness of the shrimp, allowing guests to dip as they please.
• Experiment with Nut Substitutes: Don’t hesitate to try pecans or almonds instead of walnuts for a unique twist on your classic Honey Walnut Shrimp.
How to Store and Freeze Honey Walnut Shrimp
Fridge: Store leftover Honey Walnut Shrimp in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This retains the flavors, though the shrimp may lose some crispiness.
Freezer: For best results, freeze cooked shrimp (without sauce) in a tightly sealed container for up to 2 months. This helps maintain quality, but it’s best to consume soon after freezing.
Reheating: To reheat, avoid the microwave as it can make shrimp soggy. Instead, use an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or re-fry them briefly in oil until heated through.
Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the candied walnuts and sauce a day in advance. Store them separately in the fridge to keep your Honey Walnut Shrimp crispy when you’re ready to fry them!
Honey Walnut Shrimp Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity with these delightful twists on the classic Honey Walnut Shrimp recipe!
- Nutty Swaps: Substitute walnuts with pecans or almonds for a different crunch and flavor profile that still delivers satisfaction.
- Creamy Alternative: For a lighter twist, replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt—it adds creaminess while packing a protein punch.
- Sweet and Spicy: Experiment with a drizzle of Sriracha or chili paste in the sauce for a zesty kick that’ll liven up each bite.
- Rice Upgrade: Serve over fragrant jasmine or basmati rice to transform your Honey Walnut Shrimp into a comforting and hearty meal.
- Vegetable Add-ins: Toss in some steamed broccoli or sugar snap peas with the shrimp—adding colorful veggies not only enhances nutrition but also brings vibrancy to your plate.
- Herb Infusion: Add a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or green onions just before serving for a burst of fresh flavor that complements the richness of the sauce.
- Lower Sugar Option: Swap honey for agave syrup or a sugar-free alternative to cater to your health goals while still enjoying sweet succulence.
- Aquafaba Magic: For a vegan version, replace egg whites with aquafaba—the secret magic from chickpeas that whips beautifully and holds your batter together just as well.
With these variations, you can elevate your homemade Honey Walnut Shrimp while still enjoying its comforting essence. If you’re on the lookout for more delightful seafood recipes, be sure to check out my New Orleans Shrimp or the delicious Honey Mustard Turkey for an exciting culinary adventure!
What to Serve with Crispy Honey Walnut Shrimp
Elevate your homemade take-out experience with delightful pairings that complement the sweet, crunchy flavors of this dish.
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Steamed Broccoli: A vibrant green side that adds freshness and a lovely crunch, balancing the richness of the creamy shrimp.
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Fluffy Jasmine Rice: This fragrant rice acts as the perfect base, soaking up the luscious sauce and adding a comforting, homey touch.
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Sugar Snap Peas: Their crisp texture and subtle sweetness mirror the candied walnuts, providing a delightful contrast to the shrimp.
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Garlic Noodles: A savory option to enhance the dish’s flavor, these noodles bring an umami punch that works beautifully with the shrimp.
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Mango Salad: Light and refreshing, the sweetness of ripe mangoes creates a fruity counterpoint to the rich sauce.
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Chilled Cucumber Slaw: Crisp cucumbers add a burst of freshness, offering a cooling contrast to the savory, creamy shrimp.
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Lychee or Peach Iced Tea: A lightly sweetened beverage that perfectly complements the dish, bringing a refreshing finish to the meal.
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Sesame Spinach: A warm, nutty side that adds a touch of earthiness, harmonizing perfectly with the shrimp’s crispy texture.
These pairings create a vibrant and satisfying meal that will impress your family and friends alike!
Honey Walnut Shrimp Recipe FAQs
What type of shrimp should I use for this recipe?
For the best flavor and texture, I recommend using wild-caught large shrimp (peeled and deveined). They have a richer taste compared to farm-raised shrimp. However, if wild-caught shrimp isn’t available, frozen shrimp works perfectly as long as you properly thaw them before cooking.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftover Honey Walnut Shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. While the flavors will still be delicious, please note that the shrimp may lose some of its crispiness during storage.
Can I freeze Honey Walnut Shrimp?
Absolutely! To freeze your Honey Walnut Shrimp, first let the cooked shrimp cool completely. Then, place them in a tightly sealed container or freezer bag, ensuring to keep them without the sauce. They can be stored for up to 2 months. For best results, consume them sooner rather than later!
How do I reheat the shrimp?
To maintain their fabulous crunch, I recommend reheating the shrimp in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. Avoid the microwave, as it may cause the shrimp to become soggy. Alternatively, you can quickly refry the shrimp in hot oil for a couple of minutes until heated through.
Are there any substitutes I can use for the walnuts?
Yes, you can certainly substitute walnut halves with either pecans or almonds for a different nutty flavor profile. Both options add their unique taste and crunch, so feel free to experiment based on your preferences!
Does this recipe contain any allergens?
This Honey Walnut Shrimp recipe contains common allergens such as shrimp, eggs, and mayonnaise. If you have allergies, consider using aquafaba in place of egg whites and Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. Always double-check labels to ensure safety with any prepackaged ingredients.
Perfectly Crispy Honey Walnut Shrimp for Homemade Takeout Bliss
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, bring 1 cup of water to a boil, then add 1 cup of granulated sugar and the walnut halves. Boil for about 2 minutes until softened, then transfer to dry on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together ½ cup mayonnaise, ¼ cup honey, ¼ cup condensed milk, and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.
- In a separate mixing bowl, combine 2 large egg whites and ½ cup cornstarch, and beat until soft peaks form.
- Dip each large shrimp into the batter and fry for 2-3 minutes until golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Toss the fried shrimp with the creamy sauce until well coated and garnish with candied walnuts before serving.
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