This Honey Walnut Shrimp is a sweet, crunchy, and creamy dish that’s sure to impress! Juicy shrimp are coated in a sticky honey sauce, making each bite a delightful treat.
I love how the crispy walnuts add a fun crunch to the dish. Plus, it looks so fancy on the table, you’ll feel like a master chef! 🥳 We enjoy it over rice for a yummy meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Medium-sized shrimp work best for this dish as they provide a nice bite. If you’re looking for a different option, you can use prawns or even tofu for a vegetarian version.
Walnuts: These add a delightful crunch and sweetness. If you’re allergic to nuts or don’t have walnuts, try using pecans or sunflower seeds as a replacement.
Mayonnaise: It gives the sauce creaminess. If you want a lighter option, plain Greek yogurt can be a great substitute. It still adds creaminess but with a bit of tang!
Honey: For those who prefer a less sweet flavor, you can reduce the amount of honey or replace it with agave syrup or maple syrup if you want a different taste.
Sweetened Condensed Milk: This enhances the sweetness and creaminess, but you can skip it or use a plant-based version if you’re going dairy-free.
How Do I Get Perfectly Crunchy Shrimp?
Frying the shrimp is a crucial step! Here are some tips to achieve that perfect crunch:
- Make sure your oil is hot enough, around 350°F (175°C). A handy way to test? Drop in a piece of cornstarch. If it sizzles, you’re ready to fry!
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Fry in small batches to keep the oil temperature steady, ensuring that each shrimp gets crispy.
- Drain the shrimp on paper towels after frying. This helps absorb excess oil, keeping them light and crunchy.
Enjoy making this delightful dish at home!
Honey Walnut Shrimp Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup walnuts
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon sweetened condensed milk
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (for walnuts)
- 1/4 cup water (for walnuts)
- 1/2 cup cornstarch (for coating shrimp)
- Oil, for frying
- Optional: fresh greens or lettuce leaves for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 20 minutes to cook, giving you a total time of about 30 minutes. It’s a quick dish to whip up, perfect for a weeknight dinner or an impressive appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Caramelizing the Walnuts:
Start by caramelizing the walnuts. In a small pan, combine 1 tablespoon of sugar and 1/4 cup water over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a simmer and allow it to cook until the sugar dissolves and the syrup thickens slightly.
2. Coating the Walnuts:
Add the walnuts to the syrup in the pan, stirring well to coat them. Once coated, spread the walnuts on a parchment-lined tray and allow them to cool and harden.
3. Preparing the Shrimp:
While the walnuts are cooling, prepare the shrimp. Pat them dry with a paper towel and then coat each shrimp evenly with cornstarch. This will give them a nice crispy texture when fried.
4. Frying the Shrimp:
Next, heat oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Carefully fry the shrimp in small batches for 2-3 minutes until they are golden and crispy. When done, remove them from the oil and drain on paper towels to catch any excess oil.
5. Making the Sauce:
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, honey, and sweetened condensed milk until smooth. This will be your creamy and delicious sauce.
6. Tossing the Shrimp:
Now, toss the fried shrimp in the honey-mayonnaise sauce until they are thoroughly coated. Make sure every piece of shrimp is covered with that delightful sauce!
7. Plating Your Dish:
If you like, lay fresh greens or lettuce leaves on a serving plate. Place the sauced shrimp on top and sprinkle the caramelized walnuts over them for some added crunch.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Honey Walnut Shrimp immediately, either over a bed of steamed rice or as a fabulous appetizer. Enjoy the wonderful blend of flavors and textures!
Enjoy the crunchy, creamy, and sweet goodness of Honey Walnut Shrimp!
Can I Use Another Type of Nut?
Absolutely! While walnuts are traditional, you can substitute pecans, almonds, or sunflower seeds to give a different flavor and texture to your dish.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Honey Walnut Shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the shrimp in a skillet over low heat to retain their crunch, adding a little extra sauce if needed.
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
You can prepare the walnut caramel in advance and store it in an airtight container. However, it’s best to fry the shrimp and assemble the dish just before serving to keep them crispy.
What Can I Serve with Honey Walnut Shrimp?
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, but you can also serve it alongside stir-fried vegetables, or over a bed of fresh greens for a lighter option.