Honey Walnut Shrimp: 5-Star Recipe for the Best Taste!

Welcome to the ultimate guide for making Honey Walnut Shrimp: 5-Star Recipe for the Best Taste! This classic dish, beloved in Chinese restaurants, features perfectly crispy shrimp, crunchy candied walnuts, and a creamy, tangy-sweet sauce that’s simply irresistible. Get ready to recreate this takeout favorite right in your own kitchen.

Why This Honey Walnut Shrimp Recipe is a Must-Try

There are countless reasons to try our version of this delicious dish. This is truly a 5-star **shrimp recipe** you won’t want to miss. We’ve perfected the balance of textures and flavors, ensuring every bite is a delightful experience. You’ll love the golden, succulent shrimp paired with the sweet crunch of the walnuts.

Unlike many recipes, ours guarantees a truly restaurant-quality result without the fuss. It’s perfect for a special occasion or when you’re craving something extraordinary for dinner. Plus, making it at home means you control the ingredients and can customize to your liking.

The Secret to Perfect Honey Walnut Shrimp: Key Ingredients

The magic of this incredible **walnut shrimp** dish lies in its components: perfectly coated shrimp, crunchy candied walnuts, and a luscious honey sauce. Each element plays a crucial role in creating the amazing flavor profile.

Shrimp Marinade Ingredients

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 egg white
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1/4 teaspoon salt
Pinch of white pepper

Honey Walnut Sauce Ingredients

1/2 cup mayonnaise (Kewpie recommended)
2-3 tablespoons honey (adjust to taste)
1 tablespoon condensed milk
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon rice vinegar

Candied Walnut Ingredients

1 cup walnut halves
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 cup water
1 teaspoon vegetable oil (for boiling)
Frying oil (for walnuts, e.g., vegetable or canola)

How to Make Honey Walnut Shrimp: Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed steps to create your own amazing honey walnut shrimp. This guide ensures a perfect outcome every time.

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Thaw shrimp if frozen. Pat them completely dry with paper towels.
In a bowl, combine the shrimp with egg white, cornstarch, salt, and white pepper. Toss until shrimp are evenly coated.
Let marinate for at least 15-20 minutes in the refrigerator.

Step 2: Make the Candied Walnuts

In a small saucepan, bring 1/2 cup sugar, 1/4 cup water, and 1 teaspoon vegetable oil to a boil. Add the walnut halves.
Boil for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally. Drain the walnuts thoroughly.
Heat about 1 inch of frying oil in a separate pan or wok to 300°F (150°C).
Fry the blanched walnuts for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Be careful not to burn them.
Remove walnuts with a slotted spoon and place them on a parchment-lined plate to cool. They will crisp up further as they cool.

Step 3: Fry the Shrimp

Heat 2-3 inches of frying oil in a large pot or deep skillet to 350-375°F (175-190°C).
Carefully add the marinated shrimp in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan.
Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Remove shrimp with a slotted spoon and drain excess oil on a wire rack or paper towels.

Step 4: Prepare the Honey Sauce

In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, honey, condensed milk, fresh lemon juice, and rice vinegar until smooth and creamy.
Taste and adjust sweetness or tanginess as desired.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

In a large mixing bowl, gently toss the fried shrimp with the prepared honey sauce until thoroughly coated.
Add the candied walnuts and toss lightly to combine.
Serve immediately, garnished with a sprinkle of sesame seeds or fresh green onions if desired. Enjoy your homemade Honey Walnut Shrimp!

Expert Tips for the Best Honey Walnut Shrimp

To truly elevate this dish, consider these expert tips for the best results. Always start with fresh, high-quality shrimp for the best texture and flavor. Patting them dry is crucial for a crispy coating.

For the candied walnuts, monitor them closely while frying as they can burn quickly. A perfect walnut has a beautiful golden hue and a satisfying crunch. Don’t skip the blanching step, it helps create that unique candied shell. For more shrimp cooking tips, Read our in-depth guide here.

Consider using Kewpie mayonnaise for the sauce if you can find it; its richer, tangier profile makes a significant difference. You can learn more about the unique characteristics of walnuts, which contribute so much to this dish, by visiting Wikipedia’s walnut page.

Serving Suggestions: What to Serve with Honey Walnut Shrimp

This delectable dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a classic Chinese takeout experience, serve it alongside steamed jasmine rice and a side of stir-fried green beans or broccoli.

For a lighter meal, consider a fresh Asian-inspired salad or some quick blanched asparagus. It also makes a fantastic appetizer for a larger feast!

Honey Walnut Shrimp: Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of shrimp should I use for Honey Walnut Shrimp?

It’s best to use large or jumbo shrimp (21/25 count or larger), peeled and deveined, with tails on or off depending on your preference. Fresh or good quality frozen shrimp work well, just ensure they are thoroughly thawed and dried before marinating.

Can I make candied walnuts ahead of time?

Yes, you can definitely make the candied walnuts a day or two in advance. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their crispiness. This can help save time on the day you plan to serve this delightful dish.

How do I make the shrimp extra crispy?

To achieve extra crispy shrimp, ensure they are thoroughly dry before coating. Don’t overcrowd the frying pan, as this lowers the oil temperature and can lead to soggy shrimp. Fry in batches if necessary, and ensure your oil is at the correct temperature (350-375°F or 175-190°C).