The aroma of golden, crispy shrimp wafting through the kitchen is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. This Honey Walnut Shrimp recipe combines succulent shrimp, crunchy walnuts, and a creamy sauce that elevates every bite. It takes around 30 minutes to prepare and cook, and it works beautifully because the contrasting textures and flavors create a delightful experience.
This dish is perfect for those who love Asian-inspired cuisine and want to impress at their next gathering or special occasion. Serve it as an appetizer or main dish, and it can be made ahead of time to save you some stress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The shrimp crisp up beautifully for that perfect crunch.
- A creamy, sweet sauce balances the dish perfectly.
- It presents beautifully, making it a showstopper.
- Quick to prepare, taking only about 30 minutes.
What You’ll Need
Gather the following ingredients to create this wonderful dish.
For the Shrimp
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- Oil for frying
- Salt to taste
For the Sauce
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the Garnish
- 1 cup walnuts
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Mayonnaise can be substituted with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Use shrimp alternatives like chicken or tofu.
- Walnuts can be replaced with pecans.
- Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for tanginess.
- Honey can be swapped with agave syrup.
How to Make It
Follow these simple steps to create your Honey Walnut Shrimp.
1. Heat oil
In a deep pan, heat oil for frying until hot enough for cooking.
2. Make sauce
In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, sweetened condensed milk, honey, and lemon juice to create the sauce.
3. Coat shrimp
Toss the shrimp in cornstarch until fully coated to ensure a crispy texture.
4. Fry shrimp
Fry the shrimp in the hot oil until golden and crispy, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Drain shrimp
Remove shrimp and let them drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
6. Fry walnuts
In the same oil, fry the walnuts until golden for that added crunch.
7. Combine ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the fried shrimp, walnuts, and sauce, and toss everything together until well coated.
8. Serve and garnish
Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions for a fresh finish.
How to Store It
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Freezer: No, shrimp loss texture when frozen.
Reheat: Use a hot skillet for 3-5 minutes.
Tips for Best Results
- Ensure oil is hot enough before frying for maximum crispiness.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; fry in batches if necessary.
- For a richer flavor, toast walnuts lightly before frying.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and taste.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair it with steamed jasmine rice for a fulfilling meal.
- Serve as an appetizer at your next dinner party.
- Complement with a fresh cucumber salad for balance.
