The aroma of frying shrimp fills the kitchen, a mouthwatering promise of sweetness and crunch. Honey Walnut Shrimp is a delightful dish that takes just 30 minutes to prepare. The luscious combination of honey and walnuts perfectly complements the crispy shrimp, making this recipe a favorite for any seafood lover.
This recipe is perfect for families, gatherings, or whenever you’re looking to impress guests with a unique flavor. You can make the sauce ahead of time and store it separately for up to two days, ensuring a quick assembly when you’re ready to serve.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The crispy shrimp coated in a sweet and spicy sauce creates a delightful contrast in texture.
- Honey and walnuts provide a rich flavor combination that elevates this dish.
- Quick preparation time makes it ideal for a weeknight dinner.
- The vibrant presentation makes it a great centerpiece for any table.
What You’ll Need
Gather these ingredients to create this delicious dish.
For the Frying
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
For the Sauce
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup walnut halves
- 3 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 1/2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp condensed milk
- 1/8 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
For the Battering
- 3 egg whites
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
Note: Use unsalted walnuts for better control of saltiness.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Honey: maple syrup for a vegan alternative.
- Walnuts: substitute with pecans or almonds.
- Mayonnaise: Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
- Sugar: use honey for sweetness adjustment.
How to Make It
Follow these steps for a delightful Honey Walnut Shrimp.
Heat the Oil
Heat vegetable oil in a medium deep skillet over medium-high heat.
Prepare the Walnuts
Boil the water, sugar, and walnuts in a small saucepan for 2 minutes. Then transfer to a parchment-lined sheet to dry.
Mix the Sauce
Whisk together mayonnaise, honey, condensed milk, and crushed red pepper flakes in a small bowl. Set aside.
Whip the Egg Whites
In a bowl, whisk egg whites and cornstarch with a handheld mixer until soft peaks form.
Fry the Shrimp
Dip shrimp into the batter in batches and fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown. Transfer to a paper-lined plate.
Toss and Serve
Toss the fried shrimp in the prepared sauce and serve immediately, topped with walnuts.
How to Store It
Fridge: 3 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: no, shrimp do not freeze well.
Reheat: microwave for 1-2 minutes until heated through.
Tips for Best Results
- Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying for optimal crispiness.
- Avoid overcrowding the skillet while frying to maintain temperature.
- For extra flavor, add a dash of soy sauce to the sauce mixture.
- Serve immediately for the best texture; reheating may soften shrimp.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve over steamed rice for a comforting meal.
- Pair with a light salad for a refreshing contrast.
- Great for special occasions or get-togethers as a crowd-pleaser.
