Honey Walnut Shrimp

Make my restaurant-style honey walnut shrimp with crispy shrimp tossed in a sweet sauce and candied walnuts. This dish is perfect for impressing guests at dinner parties, enjoying a cozy family meal, or even as a delightful weekend treat. With its unique combination of textures and flavors, honey walnut shrimp stands out on any dining table, bringing a taste of Asian-American fusion cuisine right to your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The balance of sweetness from the honey and the crunch from the walnuts creates an irresistible taste that everyone will love.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this dish in about 20 minutes.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as an appetizer or main course, honey walnut shrimp suits various occasions, from casual gatherings to festive celebrations.
• Crispy Texture: The double coating of cornstarch ensures a satisfying crunch with every bite, elevating your dining experience.
• Kid-Friendly Option: The mild flavors and fun presentation make it a hit with children and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking process smoother, gather these essential kitchen tools beforehand.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Skillet or wok
• Small saucepan
• Medium bowl
• Shallow dishes
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Wire rack

Why These Tools Matter

• Skillet or wok: A deep skillet or wok allows for even frying, ensuring that each piece of shrimp gets perfectly crispy.
• Medium bowl: Essential for mixing sauces smoothly without spills.
• Shallow dishes: Perfect for coating the shrimp evenly in cornstarch and egg without making a mess.

Ingredients

Make my restaurant-style honey walnut shrimp with crispy shrimp tossed in a sweet sauce and candied walnuts. Watch the video below to see how I make it in my kitchen!

Ingredients:
– 1 pound shrimp (peeled)
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon pepper
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon water
– 1/4 cup honey
– 6 tablespoons water
– 1 cup walnuts (halved)
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons plain yogurt

How to Make Honey Walnut Shrimp

Step 1: Prepare the Candied Walnuts

In a small saucepan, combine the honey and water over medium heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens. Add the walnut halves and stir to coat. Spread the coated walnuts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and let cool.

Step 2: Make the Sweet Sauce

In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, honey, and yogurt until smooth. Set aside.

Step 3: Coat the Shrimp

In a shallow dish, combine the cornstarch, salt, and black pepper. In another shallow dish, whisk together the egg and water. Dip each shrimp in the cornstarch mixture, then in the egg mixture, and then back in the cornstarch mixture for an extra crispy texture.

Step 4: Fry the Shrimp

In a large skillet or wok, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until hot. Working in batches, add the shrimp to the hot oil and fry until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side. Place the shrimp on a wire rack while cooking any remaining shrimp.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

Once all the shrimp is cooked, drizzle with the sweet sauce, sprinkle with candied walnuts, and serve immediately for maximum freshness.

Enjoy your homemade honey walnut shrimp as it brings joy to your table!

How to Serve Honey Walnut Shrimp

Serving Honey Walnut Shrimp can elevate any meal, making it a delightful centerpiece. The combination of crispy shrimp and sweet, candied walnuts makes for an irresistible dish that pairs well with a variety of sides.

Over Steamed Rice

• This classic pairing allows the sweet sauce to soak into the rice, providing a delicious and filling base for the shrimp.

On a Bed of Greens

• Serve the shrimp on a bed of fresh greens like spinach or arugula to add a refreshing crunch and balance out the richness of the dish.

In Tacos

• Use small tortillas to create tasty shrimp tacos. Top with avocado and a drizzle of lime for a fun twist on presentation.

With Noodles

• Toss the shrimp with cooked noodles and vegetables for a quick stir-fry that incorporates all the flavors in one convenient dish.

As Part of a Platter

• Create a beautiful appetizer platter with Honey Walnut Shrimp alongside other bites like spring rolls, dumplings, or chicken skewers for variety.

With Dipping Sauces

• Serve the shrimp with additional dipping sauces such as sweet chili or soy sauce for those who enjoy extra flavor options.

How to Perfect Honey Walnut Shrimp

To achieve the perfect Honey Walnut Shrimp, attention to detail is key. Follow these tips for an amazing result every time.

• Choose Fresh Shrimp: Opt for fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp for better flavor and texture.
• Coat Evenly: Ensure even coating of cornstarch on shrimp for that desired crunchiness when fried.
• Maintain Oil Temperature: Keep your oil hot enough (around 350°F) before adding shrimp; this prevents sogginess and ensures crispiness.
• Avoid Overcrowding: Fry in batches to avoid lowering the oil temperature, which can lead to uneven cooking.
• Let Candied Walnuts Cool: Allow candied walnuts to cool properly before adding them to the dish; this helps maintain their crunch.
• Drizzle with Sauce Just Before Serving: For optimum texture, drizzle the sweet sauce over the shrimp right before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Honey Walnut Shrimp

Pairing side dishes with Honey Walnut Shrimp can enhance your dining experience. Here are some perfect side options to complement this flavorful dish.

1. Fried Rice: A classic side that adds hearty grains and vegetables, absorbing all those delicious flavors.
2. Garlic Green Beans: These provide a crunchy and savory contrast to the sweetness of the shrimp.
3. Sesame Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli tossed in sesame oil adds a nutty flavor that pairs beautifully.
4. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad with cucumbers, vinegar, and sesame seeds offers a crisp contrast.
5. Spring Rolls: These crispy rolls filled with veggies make for a delightful appetizer alongside your main dish.
6. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed side that complements the sweetness with its earthy tones.
7. Miso Soup: This warm soup adds umami flavor and balances out the sweetness of Honey Walnut Shrimp nicely.
8. Steamed Dumplings: Soft dumplings filled with chicken or vegetables add another layer of taste and texture to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Honey Walnut Shrimp, it’s easy to overlook some crucial steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for perfect results.

• Not drying the shrimp: Ensure your shrimp are thoroughly dried before coating. Excess moisture can prevent the coating from adhering properly.
• Skipping the cornstarch layer: This step adds a crucial crunch. Always coat the shrimp in cornstarch before dipping them in the egg mixture.
• Overcrowding the pan: Frying too many shrimp at once lowers the oil temperature. Cook in batches for a crispy texture.
• Using cold oil: Hot oil is key for a crispy finish. Test the oil’s readiness by dropping a small piece of batter; it should sizzle immediately.
• Neglecting to cool candied walnuts: Let walnuts cool completely before adding them to the dish. This ensures they stay crunchy and don’t become soggy.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Honey Walnut Shrimp in an airtight container.
• Keep it refrigerated for up to 3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Honey Walnut Shrimp

• Place cooled shrimp in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Freeze for up to 2 months; ensure all air is removed from bags.

Reheating Honey Walnut Shrimp

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Spread on a baking sheet and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish; cover with a paper towel. Heat in short intervals (30 seconds) until warm, but this may make them less crispy.
• Stovetop: Heat a little oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add shrimp and cook until warmed through, ensuring they retain their crunch.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Honey Walnut Shrimp?

Honey Walnut Shrimp is a delicious dish featuring crispy shrimp coated in a sweet sauce, topped with candied walnuts for added flavor and texture.

Can I use other nuts instead of walnuts?

Yes! You can substitute walnuts with almonds or cashews if you prefer different flavors or textures.

How do I make Honey Walnut Shrimp healthier?

To make it healthier, use less mayonnaise and honey or substitute with Greek yogurt and agave syrup for sweetness without excess sugar.

Can I prepare Honey Walnut Shrimp ahead of time?

You can prep the shrimp and sauce ahead of time but fry just before serving to maintain crispiness.

Is Honey Walnut Shrimp gluten-free?

If you use gluten-free cornstarch, this recipe can be made gluten-free. Always check labels on pre-packaged ingredients.

Conclusion

Honey Walnut Shrimp is not only appealing but also versatile. Its combination of sweet and savory flavors makes it perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize by adding vegetables or trying different proteins to suit your taste!