This Honey Walnut Shrimp is a delightful blend of crispy, golden-battered shrimp tossed in a rich, creamy honey sauce with a hint of sweetness. The candied walnuts add a satisfying crunch, perfectly balancing the dish’s textures and flavors. Each bite delivers a heavenly combination of crispy, sweet, and savory goodness, making it a favorite for seafood lovers and those who enjoy Asian-inspired dishes.
What makes this dish special is its restaurant-quality taste that you can easily recreate at home. With just a few simple ingredients, you can serve a takeout classic that’s fresher, healthier, and budget-friendly. Whether it’s for a cozy night in or an impressive dinner, this Honey Walnut Shrimp will undoubtedly be a hit at your table!
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 2 egg whites
- 1/2 cup walnuts
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp sweetened condensed milk
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Salt, to taste
Directions:
- In a small saucepan, bring water and sugar to a boil. Add walnuts and cook for about 2 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a bowl, whisk egg whites until frothy. Add cornstarch and mix until a smooth batter forms.
- Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Dip shrimp into the batter, coat evenly, and fry until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on a paper towel.
- In a bowl, mix honey, mayonnaise, sweetened condensed milk, and lemon juice until smooth.
- Toss the crispy shrimp in the honey sauce until well coated.
- Serve with candied walnuts on top. Enjoy!
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 430 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Honey Walnut Shrimp: A Crispy, Sweet, and Savory Delight
Honey Walnut Shrimp is a beloved dish that perfectly blends crispy battered shrimp with a rich and creamy honey sauce, finished off with crunchy candied walnuts. This dish originates from Chinese-American cuisine and has become a popular choice in restaurants worldwide. The combination of textures and flavors makes it irresistible, whether served as an appetizer or a main course.
Origins and Popularity
This dish is a staple in many Chinese-American restaurants and is often found on the menus of popular establishments like Panda Express and high-end Asian eateries. While the exact origins of Honey Walnut Shrimp are unclear, it is widely associated with Cantonese cuisine, which is known for its delicate flavors and balanced use of sweetness. Over the years, this dish has gained immense popularity due to its perfect combination of crispy, creamy, sweet, and savory elements.
The appeal of Honey Walnut Shrimp lies in its unique taste and texture. The shrimp is battered and fried to golden perfection, while the sauce brings in a luscious sweetness that enhances the shrimp’s natural flavors. The caramelized walnuts add a nutty, crunchy contrast, making each bite an explosion of textures.
Why This Recipe Works
What sets this dish apart is the balance of flavors and textures. The crispiness of the shrimp contrasts beautifully with the smooth, velvety sauce. The honey and sweetened condensed milk in the sauce create a perfect level of sweetness without overpowering the dish. Additionally, the candied walnuts provide a crunchy bite, preventing the dish from becoming too rich.
This recipe also allows home cooks to recreate a restaurant-quality meal at home with minimal ingredients. The frying process ensures that the shrimp stays crunchy, even when coated in the sauce. Unlike some recipes that result in soggy shrimp, this version guarantees crispiness with a light batter.
Healthier Homemade Version
While restaurant versions of Honey Walnut Shrimp can be quite heavy due to excessive oil and sugar, making it at home allows you to control the ingredients. You can opt for a lighter batter by reducing the amount of cornstarch or using a healthier frying method such as air frying.
For those watching their calorie intake, reducing the mayonnaise and sweetened condensed milk while maintaining the honey’s natural sweetness can create a lighter sauce. Some variations even use Greek yogurt as a healthier alternative to mayonnaise.
Best Side Dishes to Serve With Honey Walnut Shrimp
Honey Walnut Shrimp pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some great options to serve alongside:
- Steamed Jasmine Rice – A simple side that allows the shrimp’s flavors to shine.
- Fried Rice – Adds a savory touch and makes the meal more filling.
- Garlic Bok Choy – A fresh, garlicky vegetable dish that balances the sweetness of the shrimp.
- Lo Mein Noodles – Offers a delicious, chewy contrast to the crispy shrimp.
- Steamed Broccoli – A nutritious addition that pairs well with the creamy sauce.
Variations of Honey Walnut Shrimp
One of the best aspects of this dish is its versatility. You can easily modify the recipe to suit different dietary needs or preferences.
- Spicy Honey Walnut Shrimp – Add a touch of sriracha or red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Vegan Walnut Shrimp – Use battered cauliflower or tofu instead of shrimp for a plant-based alternative.
- Air-Fried Honey Walnut Shrimp – Instead of deep frying, use an air fryer for a healthier version with the same crunch.
- Extra Crunchy Version – Double-coat the shrimp in cornstarch and panko breadcrumbs for a thicker, crunchier texture.
Tips for Making the Best Honey Walnut Shrimp
- Use Fresh Shrimp – Fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp will give you the best texture and flavor.
- Do Not Overcrowd the Pan – When frying, cook the shrimp in small batches to maintain crispiness.
- Keep the Sauce Light – Toss the shrimp in the sauce right before serving to prevent sogginess.
- Properly Candy the Walnuts – Cooking the walnuts in a sugar syrup before toasting them ensures the perfect crunch.
- Serve Immediately – This dish is best enjoyed fresh to maintain the shrimp’s crispy texture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even though Honey Walnut Shrimp is a simple recipe, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish.
- Overcooking the Shrimp – Shrimp cook quickly, so frying them for too long can result in a rubbery texture.
- Not Draining Fried Shrimp Properly – Removing excess oil prevents the shrimp from becoming greasy and heavy.
- Using Too Much Sauce – While the sauce is delicious, too much of it can make the shrimp soggy. A light coating is ideal.
- Skipping the Walnuts – The walnuts provide a crucial crunch that balances the dish, so don’t leave them out!
How to Store and Reheat Honey Walnut Shrimp
If you have leftovers, proper storage and reheating methods will help maintain the dish’s quality.
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in an oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the shrimp soggy.
Conclusion
Honey Walnut Shrimp is a crowd-pleasing dish that brings together crispy shrimp, a luscious honey sauce, and crunchy walnuts. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or simply craving a restaurant-quality meal at home, this recipe is a must-try.
By making this dish at home, you can customize the flavors to your liking and create a healthier version without compromising on taste. With a few simple techniques, you can achieve the perfect balance of crispy, sweet, and creamy textures. Paired with your favorite sides, this dish is sure to impress anyone who tries it!