Description
Honey Walnut Shrimp is a delightful Chinese-inspired dish that combines crispy shrimp with a creamy, sweet honey sauce and crunchy candied walnuts. This indulgent dish is the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and crunchy. Whether for a weeknight dinner, special occasion, or dinner party, this easy-to-make dish is sure to impress with its rich flavor and texture.
Ingredients
For the shrimp:
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1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
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1/2 cup cornstarch (for battering)
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1/2 cup all-purpose flour
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1 egg, beaten
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1/4 cup cold water
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1/4 teaspoon salt
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1/4 teaspoon black pepper
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1/2 teaspoon baking powder (optional, for extra crispiness)
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Vegetable oil, for frying
For the sauce:
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1/4 cup honey
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1/4 cup mayonnaise
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1 tablespoon sweetened condensed milk
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1 teaspoon lemon juice
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1/2 teaspoon rice vinegar (optional, for a tangy kick)
For the candied walnuts:
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1/2 cup walnuts, toasted
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2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon water
Instructions
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Prepare the walnuts:
In a small skillet over medium heat, add the walnuts, sugar, and water. Stir frequently until the sugar dissolves and the walnuts are coated. Continue to cook for 2-3 minutes until the sugar caramelizes and the walnuts become golden and sticky.
Remove the walnuts from the skillet and set them aside on a parchment paper-lined surface to cool. -
Make the batter:
In a bowl, combine the cornstarch, flour, salt, pepper, and baking powder (if using). Add the beaten egg and cold water, stirring until the batter is smooth and thick. -
Fry the shrimp:
Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or skillet over medium-high heat (about 1-2 inches of oil).
Dip each shrimp into the batter, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Fry the shrimp in batches for 2-3 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy.
Use a slotted spoon to remove the shrimp and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. -
Make the sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, mayonnaise, sweetened condensed milk, lemon juice, and rice vinegar (if using). Adjust the sweetness or tanginess to your liking by adding more honey or lemon juice. -
Combine the shrimp and sauce:
Once the shrimp are fried, transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Pour the honey sauce over the shrimp and toss gently to coat evenly. -
Assemble the dish:
Transfer the coated shrimp to a serving platter. Sprinkle the candied walnuts over the top and garnish with green onions or sesame seeds if desired. -
Serve:
Serve the Honey Walnut Shrimp immediately while the shrimp are crispy and the sauce is warm. It pairs wonderfully with steamed white rice or a fresh salad.
Notes
Add vegetables: For added texture and nutrition, serve the shrimp over stir-fried vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli.Make it spicy: Add chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick.Use a different nut: If you don’t have walnuts, cashews or almonds work well as substitutes, offering a different flavor and crunch.Make it lighter: For a lighter version, bake the shrimp at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes until crispy, instead of frying them.
