As I stood in my kitchen, a savory aroma wafted through the air, instantly whisking me back to my favorite Asian restaurant. Today, I’m thrilled to share my take on the classic Honey Walnut Shrimp—a dish that captures the magic of crunch and creaminess in each bite. This quick Asian-inspired delight takes just 25 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or when you’re longing for something special that rivals takeout. Not only is it a hassle-free way to whip up a gourmet meal, but the combination of succulent shrimp and candied walnuts guarantees that everyone at the table will be raving. Are you ready to make this delightful dish a new favorite? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why is Honey Walnut Shrimp So Irresistible?
Quick preparation: With just 25 minutes needed, you can indulge in a flavorful dish without hours in the kitchen. Sweet crunch: The combination of candied walnuts and honey creates a delightful contrast that keeps you coming back for more. Versatile options: Prefer chicken? Simply swap it out for a protein that suits your taste. Crowd-pleaser: Whether it’s a weeknight meal or a dinner party, this dish charms everyone at the table. Plus, don’t forget to serve it over rice or alongside sautéed vegetables for a complete experience like the flavors in our Chinese Honey Garlic dish!
Honey Walnut Shrimp Ingredients
Get ready to create this delightful Asian-inspired dish at home!
For the Shrimp
- Large Shrimp – Use peeled and deveined shrimp for convenience, ensuring they become tender and flavorful.
- Eggs – Acts as a binding agent for the breading; a flax egg works for a vegan option.
- Water – To thin the egg mixture for a perfect breading consistency.
- Flour – Coats the shrimp for a crisp batter; choose all-purpose or gluten-free flour.
- Panko Breadcrumbs – Provides that irresistible crispy texture; for a different feel, regular breadcrumbs can be used.
For Frying
- Oil – Essential for frying; vegetable or canola oil offers a nice crispy exterior.
For the Candied Walnuts
- Walnuts – Adds crunch and sweetness; for a twist, substitute with pecans.
- Sugar – Used to candy the walnuts, creating a sweet contrast; coconut sugar is a healthier alternative.
For the Sauce
- Mayo – Forms the creamy base of the sauce; Greek yogurt can lighten it up.
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – Adds a mild kick to the sauce; you can omit for a milder experience.
- Garlic Powder – A flavor enhancer; fresh minced garlic works well too.
- Salt – Balances the sweetness of the dish.
- Honey – Creates a sweet gloss for the dish; maple syrup serves as a vegan substitute.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk – Adds creaminess and a unique flavor; replace it with coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
Enjoy whipping up this Honey Walnut Shrimp and impress your family with its sweet crunch!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Honey Walnut Shrimp
Step 1: Prepare Sauce
In a large bowl, take your mayo and whisk it together with crushed red pepper flakes, garlic powder, salt, honey, and sweetened condensed milk until smooth. The mixture should be creamy and well-blended—set this sauce aside as it will enhance the flavor of the Honey Walnut Shrimp later.
Step 2: Candy Walnuts
In a saucepan, combine sugar and 1 cup of water, bringing it to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, add the walnuts and let them cook for 2 minutes. After this, drain the walnuts and spread them out on a plate to cool completely, allowing them to become perfectly crunchy and sweet—this will provide a delightful contrast in your dish.
Step 3: Prep Shrimp
Start by rinsing your large shrimp under cold water, then lightly shake off the excess. Place the shrimp in a zip-lock bag and add flour, sealing the bag and shaking well to coat each shrimp evenly. This step not only adds texture but also helps the shrimp hold onto the crispy breading.
Step 4: Breading Process
In a bowl, whisk together the eggs and a splash of water to create an egg wash. Dip each flour-coated shrimp into the egg wash, allowing any excess to drip off, then toss them in panko breadcrumbs until they are fully coated. This ensures each piece of Honey Walnut Shrimp will be satisfyingly crunchy when fried.
Step 5: Fry Shrimp
Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat, making sure the oil is hot enough for frying. Add the shrimp carefully, allowing them to sizzle as they fry for 4-5 minutes, turning them occasionally until they turn golden brown and crispy. For pre-cooked shrimp, reduce frying time to just 1-2 minutes until they are heated through.
Step 6: Combine
Once the shrimp are fried to perfection, transfer them to the bowl with your prepared sauce. Toss the shrimp gently but thoroughly to ensure they are well-coated with the delightful mix. Serve immediately, topping with the candied walnuts for that extra crunch and authenticity of your Honey Walnut Shrimp recipe!
How to Store and Freeze Honey Walnut Shrimp
Fridge: Store any leftover Honey Walnut Shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet to maintain the crispy texture.
Freezer: If you want to freeze the uncoated shrimp, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze before transferring them to a freezer bag, where they can stay fresh for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat baked or fried shrimp, use a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes, which helps restore crispness, rather than using a microwave.
Tips for Best Results: Ensure the shrimp is completely cool before refrigerating, and avoid stacking layers to keep them crispy longer.
Honey Walnut Shrimp Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to make this delightful dish your own by trying these fun and tasty variations!
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Chicken Swap: Substitute shrimp with bite-sized chicken pieces for a delicious poultry alternative that still packs a flavorful punch. The seasoned breading will work beautifully for chicken, and you’ll maintain that sought-after crunch!
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Nut Experiment: Switch out walnuts for pecans or almonds to give your dish a unique twist. Each nut brings its own flavor, adding layers of complexity that can make all the difference!
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Crispy Tofu: For a delightful plant-based version, replace shrimp with firm tofu, diced and coated. When fried to golden perfection, it soaks up the sauce, delivering the same satisfying crunch as the original recipe.
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Spice it Up: Amp up the heat by adding more crushed red pepper flakes or some sliced jalapeños for an extra kick. This adds boldness and depth, creating a flavor experience that will awaken your taste buds!
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Garlic Lovers: For those who can’t get enough of garlic, consider adding minced fresh garlic to both the sauce and when frying the shrimp. This brings a delightful aromatic element, making each bite more irresistible.
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Vegan Delight: Make this dish vegan-friendly by using a flax egg, coconut whipped cream instead of sweetened condensed milk, and maple syrup as the sweetener. You’ll enjoy a luscious dish that fits your dietary preferences!
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Tangy Lemon Twist: Add some freshly squeezed lemon juice or zest to your sauce for a bright, zesty flavor that cuts through the sweetness and elevates the dish. This simple addition takes the whole experience to a refreshing level!
For those inclined toward Asian flavors, don’t miss out on the sweet charms of our Crab Shrimp Stuffed recipe or the satisfying crunch from our Keto Garlic Shrimp. Your culinary adventure with Honey Walnut Shrimp starts now!
Make Ahead Options
These Honey Walnut Shrimp are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prep the sauce up to 3 days in advance by whisking together the mayo, crushed red pepper flakes, garlic powder, salt, honey, and sweetened condensed milk, then storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can candy the walnuts up to 24 hours ahead; simply cool and store them in a container to maintain their crunch. For the shrimp, coat them in flour prior to cooking but wait to dip them in the egg wash and breadcrumbs until right before frying to ensure they remain crispy. When you’re ready to serve, just fry the shrimp and toss everything together for a delightful, restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Honey Walnut Shrimp
- Choose Quality Shrimp: Use the freshest large shrimp you can find; they should be firm and slightly translucent for the best flavor.
- Perfectly Battered: Avoid clumping the breading by using a light hand when tossing shrimp with flour and panko; this ensures even, crispy coverage.
- Frying Temperature: Maintain oil at the right temperature—you want it hot enough to sizzle but not so hot that the shrimp burn; use a thermometer if needed.
- Avoid Overcooking: Watch your shrimp closely; they should be pink and opaque, cooking for just 4-5 minutes to retain their juicy texture.
- Sweetness Balance: Adjust the sweetness of the sauce depending on your taste; add a bit more honey for those who prefer a sweeter Honey Walnut Shrimp.
- Serving Fresh: This dish is best enjoyed right after cooking for the ultimate crunchy experience; the shrimp may lose crispiness if stored too long.
What to Serve with Honey Walnut Shrimp?
Elevate your dining experience by pairing this sweet and savory dish with delightful accompaniments that enhance every bite.
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffy, fragrant rice acts as a perfect canvas for the rich flavors of the sauce, soaking up every drop.
- Sautéed Bok Choy: Crisp and tender, this Asian green adds a fresh, mildly bitter contrast to the sweetness of the shrimp, balancing your plate beautifully.
- Sesame Noodles: Rich with garlic, ginger, and a hint of sesame oil, these noodles are an umami-packed partner that complements the dish without overshadowing it.
- Crispy Spring Rolls: Their crunchy texture and vibrant vegetables provide a delightful counterpoint to the saucy shrimp, plus they make for a fun finger food option!
- Sweet and Sour Cucumber Salad: With refreshing cucumber and a tangy dressing, this salad cleanses the palate between bites, offering a bright addition to your meal.
- Mango or Pineapple Chunks: A side of fresh fruit introduces a juicy sweetness that harmonizes with the dish while providing a refreshing element.
- Chardonnay or Riesling: A chilled glass of these white wines brings out the flavors of your Honey Walnut Shrimp, enhancing the overall experience.
- Sesame Cookies: Wrap up your meal with a sweet crunch from these light and crispy treats, echoing the textures found in your main dish while delivering a satisfying conclusion.
- Green Tea: Its calming properties and slight bitterness cut through the richness of the meal, rounding out your dinner with warmth and comfort.
Honey Walnut Shrimp Recipe FAQs
What type of shrimp should I use for Honey Walnut Shrimp?
I recommend using large shrimp that are peeled and deveined for convenience. Look for shrimp that are firm and slightly translucent; this ensures they cook well and showcase a tender, flavorful bite in your dish.
How long can I store leftovers of Honey Walnut Shrimp?
Store your leftover Honey Walnut Shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet, avoiding the microwave if you want to keep that crispy texture intact.
Can I freeze Honey Walnut Shrimp?
Absolutely! If you want to freeze uncoated shrimp, first lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag, where they can stay fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to use them, you can fry them from frozen or thaw them first before cooking.
What should I do if my breading isn’t sticking to the shrimp?
If you find that the breading isn’t adhering properly, ensure that the shrimp are dry before coating them with flour. After that, make sure your egg wash is thick enough to cling well. If needed, double-dip the shrimp back into the egg and then into the panko breadcrumbs for a better coating before frying.
Are there any dietary considerations for Honey Walnut Shrimp?
Yes, if you’re cooking for someone with allergies or specific dietary needs, there are alternatives you can use. For a gluten-free version, substitute regular flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free options. Additionally, ensure the mayonnaise is egg-free if preparing for those with egg allergies, or swap it with Greek yogurt. Always check your ingredient labels to avoid any potential allergens.
Honey Walnut Shrimp: Quick Comfort with a Sweet Crunch
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, whisk together mayo, crushed red pepper flakes, garlic powder, salt, honey, and sweetened condensed milk until smooth.
- In a saucepan, combine sugar and 1 cup of water, bringing it to a boil. Add walnuts and cook for 2 minutes, then drain and cool.
- Rinse shrimp under cold water, shake off excess, place in a zip-lock bag with flour, seal, and shake to coat.
- Whisk eggs and water for egg wash. Dip each shrimp into egg wash, then coat with panko breadcrumbs.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry shrimp for 4-5 minutes until golden brown.
- Transfer fried shrimp to the bowl with the prepared sauce and toss gently. Top with candied walnuts.
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