Name: Honey Walnut Shrimp Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: ½ cup cornstarch; 2 egg whites; 3 tbsp water; 12 oz shrimp; ¾ cup sugar; 2 tbsp brown sugar; ½ cup Walnuts; 1 cup water; oil; For Sauce:; ¼ cup mayonnaise; 1 tbsp honey; 1 tbsp condensed milk; 1 tbsp water

Indulge in the perfect blend of sweet and savory with honey walnut shrimp. This dish combines the crispy texture of fried shrimp with the rich taste of candied walnuts and a creamy honey sauce, creating a truly delightful experience.

Photos of Honey Walnut Shrimp Recipe

Some of the ingredients, like condensed milk and walnuts, might not be common in every household kitchen. When you visit the supermarket, be sure to pick up these items, as they are essential to achieving the unique flavors and textures of this dish.

Ingredients for Honey Walnut Shrimp

cornstarch: Used for coating the shrimp to give it a crispy texture

egg whites: Helps bind the cornstarch to the shrimp

water: Mixed with the cornstarch and egg whites for the coating and also used in the sugar syrup for the walnuts

shrimp: The main protein of the dish, providing a succulent and savory base

sugar: Paired with brown sugar to create the sweet coating for the walnuts

brown sugar: Adds a deeper, caramel flavor to the walnut coating

walnuts: Candied and used as a crunchy topping

oil: Used for frying the shrimp until golden and crispy

mayonnaise: Forms the base of the creamy sauce

honey: Sweetens the sauce and adds a rich flavor

condensed milk: Adds sweetness and creaminess to the sauce

green onions: Used as a garnish to add a fresh, sharp flavor

One reader, Garvin Donato says:

This honey walnut shrimp recipe is fantastic! The shrimp are perfectly crispy, and the sauce is a delightful blend of sweet and creamy. The caramelized walnuts add a wonderful crunch. Definitely a new favorite in our household!

Garvin Donato

Key Techniques for Perfecting Honey Walnut Shrimp

How to mix egg whites until frothy: Whisk the egg whites vigorously until they form a light, airy foam. How to coat shrimp: Ensure the shrimp are evenly covered with the egg white and cornstarch mixture. How to simmer: Cook the mixture of sugars, water, and walnuts over low heat until it thickens and reduces. How to fry shrimp: Heat oil in a pan and cook the shrimp until they are golden brown and crispy. How to lay walnuts on parchment paper: Spread the cooked walnuts on parchment paper to cool and harden. How to mix sauce ingredients: Combine mayonnaise, honey, condensed milk, and water until smooth and well-blended. How to garnish: Add green onions or other garnishes to the finished dish for presentation.

How To Make Honey Walnut Shrimp

If you want to have that satisfyingly crunchy and flavor meal, you might want to try this honey walnut shrimp. It’s the right mix of sweet and salty.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 20 minutes

Total: 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

½cupcornstarch
2egg whites
3tbspwater
12ozshrimp,small
¾cupsugar
2tbspbrown sugar
½cupwalnuts
1cupwater
oil,for frying

For Sauce:

¼cupmayonnaise
1tbsphoney
1tbspcondensed milk
1tbspwater

Instructions

Mix the egg whites until frothy, then fold them with the cornstarch and 3 tablespoons of water.
Add the shrimp and coat well. In a saucepan, add the sugars, 1 cup of water, and walnuts. Mix and let it simmer for 12 to 15 minutes.
Fry the shrimp for a few minutes until golden.
After the walnuts and sugar syrup reduce, lay them on parchment paper to dry.
Mix the sauce ingredients and pour over the shrimp. Top with roasted walnuts.
Garnish with green onions and serve.

Nutrition

Calories: 455.71kcal
Fat: 16.22g
Saturated Fat: 2.43g
Trans Fat: 0.03g
Monounsaturated Fat: 5.30g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 8.15g
Carbohydrates: 64.40g
Fiber: 0.19g
Sugar: 48.84g
Protein: 13.53g
Cholesterol: 114.42mg
Sodium: 598.92mg
Calcium: 67.89mg
Potassium: 147.53mg
Iron: 0.36mg
Vitamin A: 49.46µg
Vitamin C: 0.16mg

Expert Advice for Mastering Honey Walnut Shrimp

When frying the shrimp, make sure the oil is hot enough by testing it with a small drop of the batter. If it sizzles and rises to the surface immediately, the oil is ready. This ensures a crispy coating without absorbing too much oil.

Time-Saving Tips for Making This Recipe

Prepare ingredients in advance: Measure and organize all ingredients before starting to cook to streamline the process.

Use pre-shelled shrimp: Opt for pre-shelled shrimp to save time on peeling and deveining.

Simultaneous cooking: While the walnuts are simmering, start frying the shrimp to multitask effectively.

Pre-make the sauce: Mix the sauce ingredients ahead of time and store them in the fridge until needed.

Quick cooling: Lay the walnuts on parchment paper and place them in the fridge to speed up the drying process.

Substitute Ingredients For Honey Walnut Shrimp Recipe

cornstarch - Substitute with arrowroot powder: Arrowroot powder has a similar thickening property and can be used in the same quantity as cornstarch.
egg whites - Substitute with aquafaba: Aquafaba, the liquid from canned chickpeas, can mimic the binding properties of egg whites.
water - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can add extra flavor compared to plain water.
shrimp - Substitute with chicken breast: Chicken breast can provide a similar texture and protein content for those who do not consume seafood.
sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a lower glycemic index and can be used in the same quantity as regular sugar.
brown sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can add a similar sweetness and depth of flavor, though you may need to adjust the liquid content in the recipe.
walnuts - Substitute with pecans: Pecans have a similar texture and flavor profile to walnuts.
water - Substitute with apple juice: Apple juice can add a subtle sweetness and additional flavor.
oil - Substitute with ghee: Ghee can provide a rich, buttery flavor and is suitable for high-heat cooking.
mayonnaise - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt can provide a similar creamy texture with added protein and less fat.
honey - Substitute with agave nectar: Agave nectar has a similar sweetness and can be used in the same quantity as honey.
condensed milk - Substitute with coconut cream: Coconut cream can provide a similar richness and sweetness, making it a good dairy-free alternative.
water - Substitute with coconut water: Coconut water can add a subtle, natural sweetness and additional nutrients.

Plating Ideas for a Stunning Presentation

Serve smaller portion sizes: Present the shrimp in smaller, bite-sized portions to enhance the elegance of the dish and allow for a refined tasting experience.
Use decoration: Garnish the plate with finely chopped green onions and a few whole walnuts to add a pop of color and texture.
Layer the elements: Place a small mound of sauce on the plate first, then arrange the shrimp on top, ensuring each piece is evenly coated and visually appealing.
Add height: Stack the shrimp in a slight pyramid shape to create visual interest and dimension on the plate.
Use a clean, white plate: A pristine white plate will make the colors of the shrimp, walnuts, and green onions stand out, giving a professional and polished look.
Drizzle sauce artistically: Use a squeeze bottle to drizzle the sauce around the plate in a decorative pattern, adding an artistic touch to the presentation.
Incorporate microgreens: Add a few microgreens on top of the shrimp for a touch of freshness and to elevate the dish's visual appeal.
Use a garnish brush: Lightly brush the edges of the plate with a thin layer of the sauce to create a sophisticated and cohesive look.
Highlight the main ingredient: Ensure the shrimp is the star of the plate by arranging it prominently and symmetrically.
Finish with a touch of elegance: Add a small edible flower or a delicate herb sprig to the plate for a final touch of elegance and refinement.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Honey Walnut Shrimp

Mixing bowl: Use this to mix the egg whites, cornstarch, and water to create the batter for the shrimp.
Whisk: Essential for beating the egg whites until frothy.
Saucepan: Needed to simmer the sugars, water, and walnuts together.
Frying pan: Use this to fry the shrimp until they are golden.
Parchment paper: Lay the walnuts on this to dry after they have been simmered in the sugar syrup.
Mixing spoon: Useful for mixing the sauce ingredients together.
Tongs: Handy for turning the shrimp while frying to ensure they cook evenly.
Measuring cups: Necessary for accurately measuring out the ingredients.
Serving dish: To present the final dish with the shrimp, sauce, and walnuts.
Knife: For chopping the green onions used as garnish.
Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping the green onions.

Storage and Freezing Guidelines for Honey Walnut Shrimp

Let the honey walnut shrimp cool completely before storing to prevent the shrimp from becoming soggy and the walnuts from losing their crunch.
Store leftover honey walnut shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To maintain the best texture, store the shrimp and walnuts separately from the sauce.
When ready to serve, reheat the shrimp in a skillet or the oven until warmed through, then toss with the sauce and top with the walnuts.
Freezing is not recommended for this dish, as the shrimp and walnuts may become soft and lose their texture upon thawing.
If you must freeze, place the cooled shrimp and walnuts in separate freezer-safe containers and store for up to 1 month.
Thaw the shrimp and walnuts in the refrigerator overnight before reheating and combining with the freshly made sauce.

How To Reheat Leftover Honey Walnut Shrimp

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover honey walnut shrimp in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until the shrimp is heated through. This method helps to retain the moisture and prevent the shrimp from drying out.
For a quicker option, you can use a microwave. Place the leftover honey walnut shrimp in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the shrimp is heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as the shrimp can become rubbery.
If you want to restore the crispiness of the fried shrimp, you can use an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the leftover shrimp in the basket. Cook for 3-5 minutes or until the shrimp is heated through and crispy.
For a stovetop method, heat a small amount of oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the leftover honey walnut shrimp and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until the shrimp is heated through and the walnuts are crispy.
If the sauce has thickened or separated during storage, you can add a small amount of water or honey to thin it out and restore its consistency. Heat the sauce separately in a small saucepan or in the microwave before pouring it over the reheated shrimp.

Interesting Trivia About Honey Walnut Shrimp

A unique aspect of this honey walnut shrimp recipe is the use of condensed milk in the sauce, which adds a rich and creamy texture that complements the sweetness of the honey and the crunchiness of the walnuts.

Budget-Friendly: Making Honey Walnut Shrimp at Home

This honey walnut shrimp recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The main expenses come from shrimp, walnuts, and condensed milk. However, the other ingredients like cornstarch, egg whites, and mayonnaise are relatively inexpensive and often found in most kitchens. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $20-$25 USD. Overall Verdict: 7/10.

Is Honey Walnut Shrimp Healthy or Unhealthy?

The honey walnut shrimp recipe, while undeniably delicious, raises some concerns from a nutritional standpoint. The heavy use of sugars, including white sugar, brown sugar, and condensed milk, significantly increases the calorie count and may contribute to blood sugar spikes. Additionally, the deep-frying process adds unhealthy fats to the dish, which can negatively impact heart health when consumed in excess.

However, the recipe does include some beneficial ingredients. Shrimp is an excellent source of lean protein, while walnuts provide healthy fats and fiber. The use of egg whites as a coating helps reduce the overall fat content compared to using whole eggs.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of sugar used in the walnut glaze, or opt for a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup
Instead of deep-frying the shrimp, try baking or air-frying them for a crispy texture with less oil
Use a light mayonnaise or Greek yogurt in the sauce to cut down on unhealthy fats
Increase the proportion of vegetables in the dish by serving the shrimp over a bed of mixed greens or stir-fried vegetables
Limit the portion size of the shrimp and walnuts, and balance the meal with a side of brown rice or quinoa for added fiber and nutrients

Editor's Opinion: Why Honey Walnut Shrimp is a Must-Try

This honey walnut shrimp recipe offers a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors. The frothy egg white and cornstarch coating ensures a crispy texture, while the honey-mayonnaise sauce adds a creamy sweetness. Simmering the walnuts in a sugar syrup gives them a caramelized crunch that complements the shrimp perfectly. However, the recipe could benefit from a touch of acidity, perhaps a squeeze of lemon juice, to balance the richness. Garnishing with green onions adds a fresh, vibrant note. Overall, it's a delicious dish that could be elevated with minor tweaks.

Enhance Your Honey Walnut Shrimp Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Butter Asparagus: Elevate your meal with a side of asparagus sautéed in garlic and butter. The crisp, tender spears will add a delightful crunch and a burst of flavor that complements the sweet and savory notes of the honey walnut shrimp.

Coconut Rice: Transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise with a serving of coconut rice. The creamy, fragrant rice cooked in coconut milk pairs perfectly with the rich and luscious shrimp, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.

Mango Avocado Salad: Brighten up your plate with a refreshing mango avocado salad. The juicy mango and creamy avocado tossed with a zesty lime dressing will add a vibrant and colorful contrast to the golden shrimp.

Ginger Carrot Soup: Warm up with a bowl of ginger carrot soup. The smooth, velvety soup infused with the zing of ginger and the sweetness of carrots will provide a comforting and aromatic start to your meal.

Pineapple Fried Rice: Add an exotic twist with pineapple fried rice. The sweet and tangy pineapple chunks mixed with savory fried rice and a hint of soy sauce will create a delightful medley of flavors that enhances the overall dining experience.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Honey Walnut Shrimp

Crispy Orange Chicken: Dive into a tangy and sweet delight with Crispy Orange Chicken. This dish features succulent pieces of chicken coated in a crispy batter, then tossed in a zesty orange sauce. Perfectly paired with steamed broccoli and fluffy white rice, it's a crowd-pleaser for any dinner table.

Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi: Indulge in the rich flavors of Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi. Juicy shrimp are sautéed in a luscious garlic butter sauce, with a hint of lemon and a sprinkle of parsley. Serve over a bed of linguine or with crusty bread to soak up every last drop.

Sweet and Sour Pork: Experience a burst of flavors with Sweet and Sour Pork. Tender pieces of pork are coated in a crispy batter and tossed in a vibrant sauce made from pineapple, bell peppers, and a tangy vinegar base. Serve with steamed rice for a complete meal.

Mango Chicken Stir-Fry: Savor the tropical taste of Mango Chicken Stir-Fry. Juicy chunks of chicken are stir-fried with fresh mango slices, bell peppers, and a hint of ginger. This colorful dish is perfect for a quick and healthy dinner, served over a bed of quinoa or rice.

Appetizer and Dessert Ideas to Complement Honey Walnut Shrimp

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with these Stuffed Mushrooms. Start by selecting large, firm mushrooms and carefully remove the stems. The filling can be a savory blend of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs, mixed with finely chopped mushroom stems. Bake until golden and bubbly, and garnish with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. These bite-sized treats are perfect for any gathering.

Bruschetta: Create a vibrant and fresh Bruschetta by toasting slices of baguette until they are crisp and golden. Top each slice with a mixture of diced tomatoes, basil, and garlic, all tossed in a drizzle of olive oil and a splash of balsamic vinegar. Finish with a sprinkle of sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper. This classic Italian appetizer is sure to impress.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in the rich, gooey center of a Chocolate Lava Cake. This dessert combines the deep flavors of dark chocolate with a molten core that oozes out when you cut into it. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The contrast between the hot, flowing chocolate and the cold, creamy ice cream creates a delightful experience for your taste buds. Garnish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and a few fresh berries for a touch of elegance.

Lemon Meringue Pie: Brighten up your meal with a Lemon Meringue Pie. This classic dessert features a tangy lemon curd filling that balances perfectly with the sweet, fluffy meringue topping. The crust is buttery and flaky, providing a sturdy base for the vibrant lemon filling. Toast the meringue to a golden brown for a beautiful finish. Serve chilled and enjoy the refreshing burst of citrus with each bite. A few lemon zest shavings on top can add an extra zing and visual appeal.

Why trust this Honey Walnut Shrimp Recipe:

This recipe for honey walnut shrimp combines the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, making it a delightful dish for any occasion. The shrimp are coated in a light, crispy batter and paired with candied walnuts that add a satisfying crunch. The sauce is a harmonious blend of mayonnaise, honey, and condensed milk, creating a creamy and rich finish. Trust this recipe for its simplicity and the use of fresh, quality ingredients that ensure a delicious and impressive meal every time.

Share your thoughts and experiences with the Honey Walnut Shrimp Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section.

FAQ:

How do I know when the shrimp is done frying?

The shrimp is done frying when it turns golden and crispy. It usually takes just a few minutes. You can also cut one open to make sure it's opaque and cooked through.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before coating them in the egg white and cornstarch mixture.

What type of oil is best for frying the shrimp?

I recommend using a neutral oil with a high smoke point, like vegetable oil or canola oil. These oils won't overpower the flavor of the shrimp.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can mix the sauce ingredients ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before pouring it over the shrimp.

How do I keep the walnuts from sticking together after cooking them in the sugar syrup?

After cooking the walnuts in the sugar syrup, spread them out on parchment paper to dry. This helps prevent them from sticking together. Make sure they are completely dry before using them as a topping.