The aroma of freshly fried shrimp mingling with the sweetness of honey and the crunch of walnuts creates a delightful feast for the senses. This Honey Walnut Shrimp recipe takes about 30 minutes to make and works perfectly for impressing guests at dinner parties or as a special treat for family gatherings.
This recipe is ideal for seafood lovers and anyone looking to elevate their home cooking. It’s perfect for celebrations, special occasions, or simply enjoying a cozy night in. You can make the sauce ahead of time and store it separately for quick assembly later.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The crispy texture of the shrimp contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce.
- The honey adds a delightful sweetness that balances the dish.
- Frying the shrimp yields a golden brown color and unmatched crunch.
- Quick preparation makes it a perfect option for a last-minute meal.
What You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients is easy for this delicious dish:
For the Sauce
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon canned sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
For the Shrimp
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 large egg whites
- 1 cup cornstarch
For the Walnuts
- ⅔ cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup walnut halves
Use regular or low-fat mayonnaise for the sauce.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Maple syrup instead of honey for a different sweetness.
- Cashews can replace walnuts for variety.
- Olive oil can be used for frying if desired.
- Regular flour can substitute cornstarch, but texture may vary.
How to Make It
Creating this delicious dish is straightforward with these steps:
Combine sugar and water
Add the sugar and water to a small saucepan and bring to a boil. This combination is essential for caramelizing the walnuts.
Cook walnuts
Add the walnuts and cook for 2-3 minutes. This step enhances their flavor. Remove with a strainer and spread on a plate. Set aside.
Prepare the sauce
In a large bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, honey, sweetened condensed milk, and lemon juice until combined. This tangy sauce will complement the shrimp perfectly.
Coat the shrimp
Place the cornstarch in a shallow dish. In a separate bowl, mix the shrimp with the egg whites until well coated. Dredge each shrimp in the cornstarch, making sure it’s fully covered, then place it on a baking sheet dusted with cornstarch.
Heat the oil
Heat 1 ½ inches of oil to 350°F in a large pot. Cooking at this temperature ensures a crispy finish without absorbing too much oil.
Fry the shrimp
Fry the shrimp in batches for 2 minutes per batch until golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Toss and serve
Add the shrimp and walnuts to the bowl of sauce and toss until everything is evenly coated. Enjoy your homemade Honey Walnut Shrimp!
How to Store It
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Freezer: No, frying makes shrimp soggy when thawed.
Reheat: Microwave on low for 1-2 minutes.
Tips for Best Results
- Ensure the oil is hot enough to create a crispy texture.
- Avoid overcrowding the pot when frying to maintain high oil temperature.
- Toss shrimp and walnuts in the sauce just before serving for maximum crunch.
- Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with steamed rice for a complete meal.
- Serve alongside a fresh green salad for a light option.
- Accompany with a tangy dipping sauce for added flavor.
