Name: Honey Walnut Shrimp: Crispy, Creamy Delight in 30 Minutes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Jumbo Shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1/2 teaspoon Salt; to taste Black Pepper; 1/2 cup Cornstarch (can be substituted with potato or tapioca starch); 1/2 cup Japanese Mayo (Kewpie) (or regular mayo); 1/4 cup Sweetened Condensed Milk (or coconut milk for dairy-free); 2 tablespoons Honey; 1/2 tablespoon Lemon Juice; 1 cup Walnuts (halves); 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar (or brown sugar); 2 tablespoons Cold Water; to taste Green Onion (chopped finely)

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The vibrant aroma of sizzling shrimp filled my kitchen as I embarked on a culinary adventure with a dish that’s become a family favorite—Honey Walnut Shrimp. This delightful creation features crispy shrimp enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce and topped with sweet, candied walnuts, transforming my home into a gourmet haven in just 30 minutes. What I love most about this quick and easy recipe is how it strikes the perfect balance between sweet and savory, making it an ideal option for busy weeknight dinners. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to impress your loved ones without the stress of complicated techniques. Are you ready to discover how to bring this restaurant-quality dish to your table?

Why is Honey Walnut Shrimp a must-try?

Crispy, this dish features golden-brown shrimp that delivers satisfying crunch with every bite. Creamy Sauce, a perfect blend of Japanese mayo and honey coats the shrimp, providing a rich flavor. Quick & Easy, ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. Family-Friendly, everyone will love the sweet and savory balance, making it an instant favorite. Serve it over steamed rice or alongside sautéed vegetables for a complete meal that’s sure to impress! If you enjoy seafood, you might also love the Garlic Shrimp Over for another delicious option.

Honey Walnut Shrimp Ingredients

• Ready to create this delightful dish? Here’s what you’ll need!

For the Shrimp

Jumbo Shrimp – The star of the dish; peeled and deveined for quick cooking.
Egg Whites – Helps bind the coating; whisk until foamy, not too stiff.
Salt & Black Pepper – Essential seasonings that enhance the shrimp’s natural flavor.
Cornstarch – Creates a light, crispy batter; can be substituted with potato or tapioca starch.

For the Sauce

Japanese Mayo (Kewpie) – Adds creamy richness to the sauce; can use regular mayo if preferred.
Sweetened Condensed Milk – Provides an irresistible sweetness; coconut milk is a great dairy-free alternative.
Honey – Adds depth and sweetness, perfectly complementing the dish.
Lemon Juice – Brightens the sauce with a fresh zing, balancing the sweetness.

For the Candied Walnuts

Walnuts (halves) – Adds a delightful crunch and flavor; essential for that classic texture.
Granulated Sugar – Used to create a sweet syrup for the walnuts; brown sugar also works if you want a richer flavor.
Cold Water – Helps dissolve the sugar, assisting in making that syrup.

Optional Garnish

Green Onion – Chopped finely for a burst of freshness and color on top of your finished dish.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Honey Walnut Shrimp

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
In a medium bowl, mix 1/2 cup of Japanese mayo, 1/4 cup of sweetened condensed milk, 2 tablespoons of honey, and the juice of 1/2 lemon until smooth and well combined. Set this creamy sauce aside to allow the flavors to meld, providing a rich and tangy base for your Honey Walnut Shrimp.

Step 2: Candy the Walnuts
In a non-stick pan, heat 1/2 cup of granulated sugar and 2 tablespoons of cold water over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the sugar dissolves and the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes. Once syrupy, add 1 cup of walnuts and stir continuously for 2-3 minutes until they become coated and caramelized. Quickly transfer the walnuts to parchment paper to cool.

Step 3: Season the Shrimp
While the walnuts cool, season 1 pound of peeled and deveined jumbo shrimp with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Make sure every shrimp is lightly coated to enhance their natural flavors, adding depth to your final Honey Walnut Shrimp dish.

Step 4: Prepare the Batter
In a clean bowl, whisk 2 egg whites until foamy but not stiff, about 1-2 minutes. Gradually add in 1/2 cup of cornstarch, mixing until a smooth batter forms. This batter will coat the shrimp, giving them a light, crispy texture when fried, and enhancing the overall dish.

Step 5: Fry the Shrimp
In a deep skillet, heat vegetable oil to 350-375°F (175-190°C). Carefully dip each seasoned shrimp into the batter and gently place them in the hot oil. Fry in batches for about 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy, turning them as needed for even cooking.

Step 6: Drain the Shrimp
Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels or a wire rack to drain excess oil. This step ensures that your Honey Walnut Shrimp stays crispy while you prepare the final coating.

Step 7: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, gently toss the crispy shrimp with the cooled candied walnuts and the creamy sauce you prepared earlier. Make sure each shrimp is generously coated in the rich sauce while the candied walnuts are evenly distributed throughout, creating the perfect combination of flavors.

Step 8: Serve and Garnish
Transfer the Honey Walnut Shrimp to a serving platter and garnish with finely chopped green onions for a burst of color and flavor. This dish is best enjoyed immediately, paired with steamed rice or sautéed vegetables to create a delicious, complete meal.

What to Serve with Honey Walnut Shrimp?

Complete your dining experience with enticing flavors and textures that complement each delightful bite.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: This fragrant rice is the perfect canvas for the sweet and creamy sauce, providing a soft contrast to the crispy shrimp.
Sautéed Broccoli: Bright green and tender, a simple sauté of broccoli adds a nutritious crunch and balances the sweetness of the dish.
Crispy Snow Peas: Their fresh snap and slight sweetness enhance the overall flavor profile, making each forkful an exciting experience.
Sesame Noodles: Tossed with a quick soy-sesame sauce, these noodles offer a salty counterpoint that complements the honeyed shrimp beautifully.
Coconut Rice: Infused with coconut milk, it adds creaminess without overwhelming the dish, harmonizing perfectly with the shrimp’s sweetness.
Cucumber Salad: Refreshing slices drizzled with rice vinegar bring brightness, cutting through the richness of the creamy sauce.
Green Tea: Enjoy a soothing cup of green tea alongside your meal; its earthy notes complement the dish’s flavors wonderfully.
Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, this sweet treat continues the tropical theme, making every course a loving homage to flavors of the sea.

Make Ahead Options

These Honey Walnut Shrimp are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the creamy sauce and candy the walnuts up to 3 days in advance. Simply store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator and keep the walnuts in a cool, dry place to maintain their crunch. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, season the shrimp and coat them in the batter just before frying for the best results. This way, you’ll have the components ready to go, allowing you to enjoy a delicious, restaurant-quality dish at home with minimal effort on busy nights!

Honey Walnut Shrimp Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful twists to create your perfect plate of Honey Walnut Shrimp!

Nutty Choices: Swap walnuts for pecans for a different crunch and flavor profile that’s equally satisfying.
Dairy-Free: Use sweetened coconut milk instead of condensed milk for a lighter, tropical flair that pairs beautifully with shrimp.
Sweetness Adjustment: Modify the level of honey based on your taste; maple syrup offers a deliciously unique twist if you’re seeking variation.
Crunchy Texture: Try adding additional crunchy elements like chopped cashews or sunflower seeds for a delightful contrast in textures.
Spicy Kick: Sprinkle some red pepper flakes or drizzle a bit of sriracha over your dish for an added layer of heat that excites the palate.
Citrus Zest: Add some freshly grated lime or orange zest to the sauce for a vibrant, zesty brightness that elevates the flavors.
Veggie Boost: Toss in some sautéed bell peppers or snap peas in the skillet for color, texture, and nutritional enhancements.
Garlic Flavoring: For a savory twist, incorporate minced garlic into the sauce, echoing the taste of dishes like Tomato Spinach Shrimp.

Be adventurous with these variations and make the Honey Walnut Shrimp your own—and if you’re in the mood for more seafood delights, don’t forget to check out the Garlic Shrimp Over for another family favorite!

How to Store and Freeze Honey Walnut Shrimp

Fridge: Store any leftover Honey Walnut Shrimp in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the shrimp and sauce separate for optimal texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a vacuum-sealed bag or airtight container. Enjoy within 2 months for the best quality.

Reheating: Reheat the shrimp in the oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and crispy—about 10 minutes. Avoid the microwave, as it will make them soggy.

Expert Tips for Honey Walnut Shrimp

Freshness Matters: Always use fresh, jumbo shrimp for the best taste. Frozen shrimp can work, but make sure they’re fully thawed and patted dry to avoid excess moisture.
Perfect Coating: Whisk the egg whites until foamy but not stiff. This allows the cornstarch to coat the shrimp evenly, giving you that coveted crispy exterior.
Monitor Oil Temperature: Maintain oil temperature between 350-375°F for optimal frying. Too cool, and they’ll absorb oil; too hot, and they’ll burn. Use a thermometer for accuracy!
Avoid Overcrowding: Fry shrimp in small batches to ensure even cooking and prevent steaming. Overcrowding leads to soggy shrimp instead of perfectly crispy Honey Walnut Shrimp.
Sauce Consistency: Adjust the amount of honey in the sauce based on your sweetness preference. A touch more honey will enhance the sweetness, while a bit less can keep it balanced.
Quick Assembly: Toss the shrimp and candied walnuts in the sauce just before serving to maintain crispiness. This way, your dish remains fresh and delightful at the table!

Honey Walnut Shrimp Recipe FAQs

What type of shrimp should I use for Honey Walnut Shrimp?
I recommend using fresh, jumbo shrimp, as they give the best flavor and texture. If you only have frozen shrimp available, make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry to remove any excess moisture, which can cause the batter to become soggy during frying.

How should I store leftover Honey Walnut Shrimp?
To maintain the best texture, store leftover Honey Walnut Shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best to keep the shrimp and sauce separately to prevent them from becoming soggy. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat the shrimp in the oven or air fryer for the most satisfying crispiness.

Can I freeze Honey Walnut Shrimp?
Absolutely! To freeze Honey Walnut Shrimp, first, arrange the cooked shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them for about 1-2 hours. Once they’re firm, transfer them to a vacuum-sealed bag or an airtight container to enjoy for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat in the oven or air fryer until crispy!

What should I do if my batter isn’t sticking to the shrimp?
If you notice the batter isn’t adhering well, it could be due to some moisture on the shrimp. I suggest patting them dry with a paper towel before seasoning and dipping them in the egg white batter. If your batter is too thin, you can add more cornstarch to thicken it. Finally, ensure the oil is hot enough; if it’s too cool, the batter won’t cook properly and can slide off.

Are there any dietary considerations for Honey Walnut Shrimp?
Yes! If you or someone you’re serving has dietary restrictions, simply swap the Japanese mayo for a dairy-free mayo, or use coconut milk as a substitute for sweetened condensed milk to make it dairy-free. Also, keep in mind that this dish contains nuts, so ensure no one has a walnut allergy before serving.

Can I make Honey Walnut Shrimp in advance?
You can prepare the sauce and candied walnuts a day in advance to save time. Store them separately in the fridge. However, I recommend frying the shrimp fresh just before serving to keep them crispy and delicious. This way, your dish remains fresh and retains its delightful crunch!

Honey Walnut Shrimp Recipe FAQs