As I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of sautéing garlic and sweet honey wafted through the air, transforming my ordinary evening into something special. This Quick and Crunchy Honey Walnut Shrimp recipe is my go-to for those days when I crave a taste of my favorite Asian restaurant but want to whip it up at home. In just 25 minutes, you can create a delectable dish featuring succulent shrimp enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce, topped with the delightful crunch of candied walnuts. Not only is this dish a fabulous crowd-pleaser, but it also boasts meal prep-friendly qualities, meaning you can savor those restaurant vibes any night of the week. Are you ready to bring a touch of gourmet to your dinner table? Let’s dive into the details!
Why is Honey Walnut Shrimp So Irresistible?
Quick preparation: In just 25 minutes, you’ll have a delicious meal ready, perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavor explosion: The sweet, creamy sauce with a hint of spice will make your taste buds dance.
Versatile: Easily swap shrimp for chicken or tofu to suit your dietary preferences.
Crowd-pleaser: Impress family and friends with this restaurant-quality dish made right at home.
Meal prep-friendly: Prepare the sauce and candied walnuts in advance—dinner will be a breeze!
Pair it with some steamed rice or sautéed vegetables for a complete meal that everyone will love. Treat yourself to a taste of homemade luxury with this incredible Honey Garlic Chicken dish!
Honey Walnut Shrimp Ingredients
For the Shrimp
• Large Shrimp – Ensure they are peeled and deveined for the best texture in your Honey Walnut Shrimp.
• Eggs – Used for an egg wash to help the breadcrumbs stick perfectly.
• Water – Thins the egg wash for a smoother coating consistency.
• Flour – Adds structure to the shrimp; gluten-free flour works great as a substitute.
• Panko Breadcrumbs – Provides that delicious crispy texture when fried.
For the Frying
• Vegetable Oil – Used for frying; can be swapped with canola oil if preferred.
For the Candied Walnuts
• Walnuts – Adds sweetness and crunch; feel free to try pecans or almonds instead.
• Sugar – Creates the sweet coating for the walnuts; coconut sugar is a healthier option.
For the Sauce
• Mayo – The creamy base for the sauce; Greek yogurt can lighten it up!
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – Optional; add some heat if you enjoy a spicy kick.
• Garlic Powder – Enhances flavor; fresh minced garlic can provide an even bolder taste.
• Salt – Essential for amplifying all the flavors in the dish.
• Honey – Sweetens your sauce beautifully; maple syrup can be used for a vegan version.
• Sweetened Condensed Milk – Adds luscious creaminess; try coconut cream as a dairy-free replacement.
Remember, your meal prep just got easier with this delectable Honey Walnut Shrimp recipe!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Honey Walnut Shrimp
Step 1: Make the Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together ½ cup mayo, 2 tablespoons honey, 1 tablespoon crushed red pepper flakes, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. Blend the ingredients until smooth and creamy, creating a luscious sauce that will coat your Honey Walnut Shrimp beautifully. Set it aside for now, allowing the flavors to meld while you prepare the rest of the dish.
Step 2: Candy the Walnuts
In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of sugar with ¼ cup of water and bring to a gentle boil over medium heat. Once bubbling, add 1 cup of walnuts and cook for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally to coat the nuts. After cooking, drain the walnuts and spread them out on a plate to cool, where they will become beautifully caramelized and crunchy.
Step 3: Prep the Shrimp
Rinse 1 pound of large shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels to eliminate excess moisture, which helps the breading adhere well. Place the shrimp into a zip-lock bag with ½ cup of flour, sealing it tightly before shaking to coat each shrimp evenly. This simple step ensures a delightful crunch for your Honey Walnut Shrimp.
Step 4: Breading Process
In a shallow dish, whisk together 2 eggs and 1 tablespoon of water to create an egg wash. Take the flour-coated shrimp and dip each piece in the egg wash, ensuring it is well-coated. Next, transfer the shrimp to another plate and press them into a cup of panko breadcrumbs until fully covered, creating a crispy exterior that’s perfect for frying.
Step 5: Fry Shrimp
In a large skillet, heat ¾ cup of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully add the breaded shrimp in batches, frying for 4-5 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through for even cooking. Once perfectly browned, transfer the shrimp to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil, keeping them warm as you fry the remaining pieces.
Step 6: Combine and Serve
Once all shrimp are fried, gently toss them in the prepared sauce until well-coated. Arrange the saucy Honey Walnut Shrimp on a serving platter and finish by sprinkling the candied walnuts on top. The result is a visually stunning dish that’s ready to be served! Enjoy this delightful meal fresh, paired with steamed rice or sautéed vegetables for a complete dining experience.
Honey Walnut Shrimp Variations
Feel free to put your own spin on this delectable dish and make it uniquely yours!
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Chicken Swap: Substitute shrimp with chicken pieces for a hearty alternative. This twist gives the dish a different texture while keeping it satisfying.
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Nut Experiment: Try different nuts like pecans or almonds for added flavor. Each nut brings its own personality, enhancing the dish’s appeal.
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Crispy Tofu: Use firm tofu as a plant-based option, maintaining a similar cooking process. It’ll soak up the sauce beautifully, making it a fantastic vegetarian choice.
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Spice it Up: Increase heat with extra red pepper flakes or jalapeños. If you love a fiery kick, this variation will set your taste buds ablaze!
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Garlic Lovers: Enhance the sauce and frying process with fresh minced garlic. A little extra garlic adds depth and complexity for all the garlic enthusiasts out there.
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Vegan Delight: Use a flax egg, coconut whipped cream, and maple syrup to make the dish vegan-friendly. It’s a great way to enjoy the flavor without the animal products.
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Tangy Lemon Twist: Add lemon juice or zest to brighten the sauce’s flavor profile. This will add a refreshing zing that balances the sweetness perfectly.
To further explore delightful flavors, check out our Honey Garlic Glazed options or try a comforting bowl of Shrimp Corn Soup. Let your creativity shine when it comes to your very own Honey Walnut Shrimp!
Expert Tips for Honey Walnut Shrimp
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Dry Shrimp First: Ensure the shrimp are thoroughly dried before coating; this helps the breading stick better and prevents sogginess.
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Perfectly Crispy: For the best crunch, serve your Honey Walnut Shrimp immediately after frying. If they sit too long, they may lose their crispness.
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Double-Dip for Success: If you find the breading isn’t sticking well, don’t hesitate to double-dip the shrimp in egg and breadcrumbs for a more substantial coating.
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Reheating Tips: If you have leftovers, reheat them in a skillet rather than a microwave to preserve their delightful crunch and texture.
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Ingredient Substitutions: Don’t be afraid to experiment! You can swap shrimp for chicken or crispy tofu based on your dietary preferences while maintaining the core flavors of Honey Walnut Shrimp.
What to Serve with Honey Walnut Shrimp
Elevate your dining experience by pairing this delightful dish with complementary sides that enhance its sweet and savory notes.
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Steamed Rice: The fluffy texture of steamed rice soaks up the creamy sauce beautifully, balancing out the richness of the shrimp.
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Sautéed Vegetables: Colorful vegetables add a fresh crunch, providing a delightful contrast to the crispy shrimp and crunchy walnuts.
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Miso Soup: This warm, umami-rich soup warms up your meal while adding an authentic touch, enriching the overall dining experience.
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Crispy Spring Rolls: The light, crunchy wrapper of spring rolls adds another layer of texture, making it a lively addition to your plate.
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Sesame Cucumber Salad: A refreshing, tangy salad that cuts through the dish’s richness with its bright flavors and crisp texture.
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Lychee Drink: A sweet and floral beverage that perfectly complements the Honey Walnut Shrimp, enhancing the dish’s exotic appeal.
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Mango Sorbet: For dessert, a light and fruity sorbet refreshes the palate after the rich meal, wrapping up your dining experience on a sweet note.
How to Store and Freeze Honey Walnut Shrimp
Room Temperature: Enjoy your Honey Walnut Shrimp immediately after cooking for the best texture; avoid leaving it at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To reheat, use a skillet to maintain crunchiness rather than a microwave, which can make the breading soggy.
Freezer: If you’d like to freeze the Honey Walnut Shrimp, do so before tossing in the sauce. Place the fried shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and then reheat in a skillet over medium heat until crisp and heated through. Enjoy your gourmet treat!
Make Ahead Options
These Honey Walnut Shrimp are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the creamy sauce and candied walnuts up to 3 days in advance, making your dinner time much smoother. To do this, simply whisk together the sauce ingredients and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, while the candied walnuts can cool and be stored separately. When you’re ready to serve, bread and fry the shrimp fresh to maintain their delightful crunch. For optimal results, combine the shrimp with the sauce and top with walnuts just before enjoying, ensuring restaurant-quality results with minimal effort – perfect for busy weeknights!
Honey Walnut Shrimp Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best shrimp for Honey Walnut Shrimp?
Absolutely! When selecting shrimp, look for large, fresh shrimp that are firm to the touch and have a mild ocean scent. Avoid any with dark spots or strong odors, as these are signs of spoilage. If you’re using frozen shrimp, opt for those that are flash-frozen without added preservatives for the best taste.
What is the best way to store leftovers?
Very important! Store your Honey Walnut Shrimp leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat and maintain that delightful crunch, I suggest using a skillet over medium heat, allowing you to crisp them back up instead of using the microwave, which can make the coating soggy.
Can I freeze Honey Walnut Shrimp?
Definitely! To freeze Honey Walnut Shrimp, do it before adding the sauce. Arrange the fried shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They will stay good for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight and reheat them in a skillet until warm and crispy.
What should I do if the breading isn’t sticking to the shrimp?
No worries! If you encounter this issue, try double-dipping your shrimp. First, coat them in flour, then dip in the egg wash, and finally coat in panko breadcrumbs. Ensure they are well-coated at each step, and if necessary, you can do a second round of egg wash and breadcrumbs to create a thicker layer.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes, it’s perfect for various dietary needs! If you or your guests have allergies, ensure to check for possible allergens in the sauce, particularly the mayo and condensed milk. For a lighter version, you can substitute the mayo with Greek yogurt or use plant-based alternatives for a vegan treat by swapping in coconut cream and maple syrup.
Delicious Honey Walnut Shrimp in Just 25 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayo, honey, crushed red pepper flakes, garlic powder, and salt until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, combine sugar and water. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat. Add walnuts and cook for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally. Drain and spread out to cool.
- Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Place shrimp in a zip-lock bag with flour and shake to coat evenly.
- In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs and water to create an egg wash. Dip floured shrimp in egg wash and then press into panko breadcrumbs until well coated.
- In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Fry shrimp in batches for 4-5 minutes until golden brown. Transfer to paper towel-lined plate.
- Once all shrimp are fried, toss them in the sauce until well-coated. Arrange on a serving platter and sprinkle with candied walnuts.
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