If you’re craving a dish that’s both sweet and savory, Honey Walnut Shrimp is a must-try! This easy recipe combines tender shrimp with crunchy walnuts and a sticky honey sauce. I’ll guide you through every step, from selecting fresh ingredients to frying shrimp to crispy perfection. Whether you're cooking for family or friends, this dish is sure to impress. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe guide!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The sweet honey sauce pairs perfectly with the savory shrimp and crunchy walnuts, creating a delightful taste experience that’s hard to resist.
- Textural Contrast: The crispy fried shrimp combined with the crunchy candied walnuts adds an exciting textural element to every bite, making this dish truly satisfying.
- Quick and Easy: With a total prep and cook time of just 35 minutes, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or when entertaining guests.
- Versatile Serving Options: This dish can be served over rice or alongside fresh vegetables, allowing for creative presentations that suit any occasion.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup walnuts
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
Seasoning and Breading Ingredients
- 1/2 cup corn starch
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
These ingredients form the backbone of the dish. The shrimp gives the meal a sweet and savory taste. Walnuts add a crunchy texture that makes each bite delightful. The sauce brings all the flavors together with a creamy and sweet touch.
For the breading, mix cornstarch and flour to create a crispy coating. Eggs help the coating stick to the shrimp. Garlic powder and salt enhance the overall flavor, making each bite even better.
Using fresh ingredients always makes a difference. I prefer buying shrimp that is wild-caught when possible. This keeps the dish fresh and tasty. For walnuts, look for unsalted ones. They will balance the sweetness of the sauce nicely.
If you want a twist, consider adding a little spice to the sauce. A dash of chili sauce can give it a nice kick. You can also try using lime juice instead of lemon for a different flavor. Enjoy getting creative with your ingredients!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Walnuts
Boiling and draining walnuts Start with one cup of walnuts. Place them in a small saucepan. Add enough water to cover the walnuts. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat. Once it boils, reduce the heat and let it simmer for three to four minutes. Drain the walnuts and rinse them with cold water to stop cooking.
Candying the walnuts In the same saucepan, mix half a cup of sugar with a quarter cup of water. Stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves. Add the drained walnuts to this mixture. Cook while stirring often, until the walnuts are coated and the syrup thickens. This should take about five to six minutes. Spread the walnuts onto parchment paper to cool.
Frying the Shrimp
Breading mixture preparation In a medium bowl, whisk together two large eggs, half a teaspoon of salt, and half a teaspoon of garlic powder. In another shallow dish, mix half a cup of cornstarch with half a cup of flour. This creates your dredging station for the shrimp.
Heating oil and dredging shrimp Preheat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or wok over medium-high heat. You want the oil hot, around 350°F (175°C). Take each shrimp and coat it first in the cornstarch and flour mix, shaking off any extra. Then dip the shrimp into the egg mixture, ensuring it is fully covered.
Frying process Carefully place the breaded shrimp into the hot oil in batches. Avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry the shrimp for two to three minutes on each side. They should turn golden brown and be cooked through. Remove the shrimp and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Combining Ingredients
Making the honey sauce In a large mixing bowl, whisk together half a cup of mayonnaise, a quarter cup of honey, one tablespoon of lemon juice, and one tablespoon of soy sauce. Mix until it is smooth and well combined.
Tossing shrimp and walnuts together Gently toss the fried shrimp in the honey sauce until they are evenly coated. Add the cooled candied walnuts to this bowl. Fold everything together carefully until the shrimp and walnuts mix well.
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
- Achieving the perfect fry: Heat your oil to 350°F (175°C). This temperature helps achieve a crispy texture. If the oil is too cool, the shrimp will absorb more oil and become soggy. Fry in small batches to keep the oil hot.
- Ensuring shrimp remain crispy: After frying, drain the shrimp on paper towels. This step removes excess oil. Toss the shrimp in the honey sauce just before serving. This keeps the coating crunchy.
Presentation Suggestions
- Serving ideas: Serve your honey walnut shrimp over a fluffy bed of jasmine rice. This adds a nice texture and flavor.
- Garnishes for visual appeal: Top your dish with finely sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. These add color and a bit of crunch, making your meal more inviting.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the frying pan: When you add too many shrimp, the oil cools down. This leads to greasy shrimp. Fry in small batches to keep the oil hot.
- Timing of the candied walnuts: Make sure the walnuts cool completely before adding them to the shrimp. Warm walnuts can make the dish soggy. Properly cooled walnuts add that perfect crunch.
Pro Tips
- Fresh Shrimp Matters: Always use fresh, high-quality shrimp for the best flavor and texture. Frozen shrimp can be used, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
- Perfectly Candied Walnuts: Keep an eye on the walnuts while candying them. Stir frequently to prevent burning, and ensure they are spread out to cool completely for a crunchy texture.
- Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to check the oil temperature before frying. If the oil is too hot, the shrimp will burn; too cool, and they will become greasy.
- Serving Suggestions: For an extra touch, serve the dish with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to balance the richness of the honey walnut shrimp.
Variations
Ingredient Substitutions
Alternate proteins If you want to change the protein, try chicken or tofu. Both will work well with the honey sauce. Chicken gives a hearty bite. Tofu absorbs flavors nicely, making it perfect for this dish.
Vegan options For a vegan version, use crispy chickpeas or cauliflower. Coat them just like the shrimp. The honey can be swapped with maple syrup for a sweet touch. This keeps all the flavors but makes it plant-based.
Flavor Enhancements
Adding spices or herbs To boost the taste, consider spices like paprika or cayenne. These add warmth and depth. Fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions can also brighten the dish. Just sprinkle them on top before serving.
Experimenting with different sauces You can switch up the sauce for fun. Try using sweet chili sauce or a spicy garlic sauce. Each sauce brings its own twist, making the dish unique. Mix and match to find your favorite blend.
Serving Suggestions
Best side dishes to pair with honey walnut shrimp Honey walnut shrimp pairs well with jasmine rice or fried rice. You can also serve it alongside steamed broccoli or snap peas. Their crunch complements the shrimp's sweet flavor.
Wine or beverage pairings For drinks, consider a light white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc. It balances the sweetness of the dish. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, iced tea or lemonade work great too. They refresh the palate and enhance the meal.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your honey walnut shrimp fresh, store it in the fridge. Place it in an airtight container. This helps prevent any unwanted odors or moisture. You can keep it for up to three days. After that, the shrimp may lose its crunch and flavor.
Reheating Instructions
For reheating, the best method is the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the shrimp on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10 minutes or until warm. This method helps keep the shrimp crispy. You can also use an air fryer if you have one. Set it to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 5-7 minutes. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the shrimp soggy.
FAQs
What is honey walnut shrimp?
Honey walnut shrimp is a delicious dish made with fried shrimp, walnuts, and a sweet sauce. The shrimp are crispy on the outside and tender inside. The candied walnuts add a crunchy texture and a sweet touch. Often served over rice, this dish is a popular choice in Chinese restaurants.
How do I make shrimp crispy?
To make shrimp crispy, follow these tips:
- Use cornstarch: Mix cornstarch with flour for a better crunch.
- Heat the oil: Ensure the oil is hot, around 350°F (175°C).
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Fry shrimp in small batches. This helps them cook evenly.
- Drain excess oil: Use paper towels to remove oil after frying. This keeps shrimp crispy.
Can I make honey walnut shrimp ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare honey walnut shrimp in advance. Here’s how:
- Cook the shrimp: Fry the shrimp and let them cool completely.
- Store separately: Keep the shrimp and sauce in separate containers. This keeps the shrimp crispy.
- Refrigerate: You can store them for up to two days.
- Reheat carefully: Reheat the shrimp in a hot pan to regain their crispiness.
Now you know how to make delicious honey walnut shrimp. We covered the main ingredients, the step-by-step process, and helpful tips. Your shrimp can be crispy and flavor-packed if you follow these tips closely. Remember, there are many ways to make this dish your own. You can switch proteins or try different sauces. Enjoy your cooking and impress your family and friends with this great meal.
