Honey Walnut Shrimp is a delightful combination of crunchy shrimp, caramelized walnuts, and a creamy, sweet sauce that will make your taste buds dance. Picture this: succulent shrimp glistening under a drizzle of honey sauce, with the nutty crunch of walnuts providing a textural surprise. This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that you can serve at dinner parties or whip up on a cozy weekend evening.
Every bite of Honey Walnut Shrimp transports me back to those blissful takeout nights when I would eagerly await my order, practically drooling in anticipation. The aroma wafting from the kitchen as I opened the container was always enough to make my heart flutter. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a Wednesday night, Honey Walnut Shrimp brings that extra sparkle to any meal.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Honey Walnut Shrimp recipe combines ease of preparation with an explosion of flavor that will impress your friends and family.
- Its beautiful presentation makes it a feast for the eyes as well.
- Plus, this dish is versatile enough to be served over rice or alongside steamed veggies.
- You’ll find yourself craving it again and again!
Ingredients for Honey Walnut Shrimp
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Shrimp: Use large, peeled shrimp for the best texture and flavor; fresh or frozen works perfectly.
Walnuts: Choose raw walnuts; they add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor when toasted.
Honey: Opt for pure honey for maximum sweetness and depth; it’s the star player in this dish.
Mayonnaise: A touch of mayonnaise creates the creamy sauce; use regular or light based on preference.
Sweetened Condensed Milk: For that rich sweetness, it balances out the savory elements beautifully.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all flavors; don’t forget to season your shrimp!
For the Sauce:
Water: To help create the perfect consistency for your sauce; adjust as necessary.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Honey Walnut Shrimp
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. If you’re using frozen shrimp, thaw them under cold running water until fully defrosted. Pat them dry with paper towels—it helps achieve that golden-brown crust we all love!
Step 2: Toast Those Walnuts
In a skillet over medium heat, toss your raw walnuts until they turn golden brown and fragrant. Keep an eye on them because they can go from perfect to burned quicker than you can say “Honey Walnut Shrimp.” Set aside once done.
Step 3: Create the Sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine honey, mayonnaise, sweetened condensed milk, and water. Whisk until smooth—this will be your secret weapon that takes your shrimp from ordinary to extraordinary!
Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
In a clean skillet over high heat, add oil and let it get hot. Carefully place shrimp in the pan in a single layer. Cook for about two minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque—don’t overcrowd them; give them space to shine!
Step 5: Combine Everything
Once cooked, immediately remove shrimp from heat and gently fold in toasted walnuts along with your luscious sauce. Toss until every piece is coated with that creamy goodness—your kitchen will smell like heaven!
Step 6: Serve It Up
Transfer your Honey Walnut Shrimp onto plates or into bowls. You can even serve it over rice or mixed greens if you want to make it fancy! Drizzle extra honey on top for added flair (and sweetness).
Enjoy every crispy bite of this delicious dish! Whether you’re having a quiet night in or hosting friends, Honey Walnut Shrimp is sure to be a hit at your table!
You Must Know
- This delightful Honey Walnut Shrimp recipe combines sweetness with crunch, making it a crowd-pleaser.
- With its colorful presentation and irresistible flavors, it’s a showstopper for any gathering.
- Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by frying the shrimp to achieve that irresistible crispy texture. While they fry, prepare the creamy honey sauce and toast the walnuts. Assemble it all together at the end for a perfectly balanced dish.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out shrimp for chicken or tofu if you want a different protein. Add some heat with red pepper flakes or garnish with green onions for an extra flavor punch. The possibilities are endless!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, use a skillet over medium heat to keep the shrimp crispy while warming through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always pat the shrimp dry before frying; this ensures a crispier texture.
- Use fresh honey for the best flavor; it makes all the difference!
- Don’t overcrowd the pan while frying; this prevents steaming and promotes even cooking.
Sharing this Honey Walnut Shrimp recipe with friends brought smiles and compliments, making it a favorite in our household gatherings. It’s always fun to see everyone enjoying every last bite!
FAQs:
What is Honey Walnut Shrimp?
Honey Walnut Shrimp is a popular dish in Chinese-American cuisine. It features crispy shrimp coated in a sweet and creamy sauce made from honey, mayonnaise, and condensed milk. The dish is often garnished with candied walnuts, adding a delightful crunch and nutty flavor. This flavorful combination creates a perfect balance of sweetness and savory notes, making it a favorite for many.
How can I make Honey Walnut Shrimp healthier?
To make Honey Walnut Shrimp healthier, consider using less sugar in the sauce or substituting honey with a natural sweetener like agave nectar. You can also bake the shrimp instead of frying them to reduce fat content. Additionally, using whole wheat breadcrumbs can add more fiber to the dish. Pairing it with steamed vegetables or brown rice can increase its nutritional value and create a balanced meal.
Can I use frozen shrimp for Honey Walnut Shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp for Honey Walnut Shrimp. Just be sure to thaw them thoroughly and pat them dry before cooking. This step ensures that the coating adheres well and that the shrimp cook evenly. Using frozen shrimp can save time and still yield delicious results without compromising on taste.
What dishes pair well with Honey Walnut Shrimp?
Honey Walnut Shrimp pairs beautifully with various side dishes like fried rice or steamed jasmine rice. For a lighter option, serve it alongside fresh salads or sautéed vegetables to balance the richness of the shrimp. You might also enjoy it as part of a larger Chinese feast, including dishes like Kung Pao Chicken or Sweet and Sour Pork.
Conclusion for Honey Walnut Shrimp:
Honey Walnut Shrimp is a delectable dish that combines crispy shrimp with a sweet, creamy sauce and crunchy walnuts. By following simple steps, you can recreate this restaurant favorite at home while adjusting ingredients for healthier options if desired. Pairing it with rice or vegetables enhances its flavors further. Enjoy this delightful meal as part of your next gathering or special occasion!
Honey Walnut Shrimp
Honey Walnut Shrimp is a delectable dish that brings together crispy shrimp, a creamy sweet sauce, and crunchy walnuts for an unforgettable dining experience. Perfect for impressing guests at dinner parties or enjoying a cozy night in, this restaurant-quality recipe is quick and easy to prepare. Each bite offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will leave everyone craving more.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Chinese-American
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup raw walnuts
- ½ cup honey
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sweetened condensed milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp water
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Thaw shrimp if frozen and pat dry with paper towels.
- In a skillet over medium heat, toast walnuts until golden brown; set aside.
- In a bowl, whisk together honey, mayonnaise, sweetened condensed milk, and water until smooth.
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over high heat. Fry shrimp for about 2 minutes on each side until pink and opaque.
- Combine cooked shrimp with the sauce and toasted walnuts until well coated.
- Serve over rice or mixed greens, drizzling extra honey on top if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 160mg
Keywords: For added heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes into the sauce. Substitute shrimp with chicken or tofu for different protein options. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
