Quick & Easy Honey Walnut Shrimp

Crispy shrimp coated in a creamy sweet sauce with crunchy candied walnuts is the star of this Quick & Easy Honey Walnut Shrimp recipe. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this delightful dish that rivals any Chinese takeout. It’s perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or simply treating yourself to a delicious meal at home. With its unique blend of flavors and textures, this dish will surely impress everyone at your table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
• Savory-Sweet Flavor: The combination of crispy shrimp and sweet honey walnut sauce creates a mouthwatering balance that delights the senses.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves shrimp! This dish is a hit with both kids and adults alike.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it over rice, noodles, or enjoy it as an appetizer. It fits various occasions perfectly.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools for a smooth experience. Having the right equipment on hand streamlines your preparation and cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Non-stick pan
• Large bowl
• Slotted spoon or tongs
• Whisk
• Parchment paper
• Wire rack or paper towel lined baking sheet

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick pan: Prevents food from sticking and ensures easy cleanup after frying.
• Large bowl: Provides ample space to mix ingredients without mess.
• Slotted spoon or tongs: Helps you safely remove shrimp from hot oil without excess grease.

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Ingredients

Ingredients for this Quick & Easy Honey Walnut Shrimp include:

For the Shrimp

• 1 lb jumbo shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 4 egg whites
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2/3 cup cornstarch (or substitute with potato starch, tapioca starch, or sweet rice flour)
• 1 cup vegetable oil (or any neutral oil for frying)

For the Sauce

• 1/4 cup Japanese mayo (aka Kewpie Mayo, or substitute with regular mayo)
• 3 tbsp sweetened condensed milk (or condensed coconut milk for dairy-free version)
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)

For the Candied Walnuts

• 1/2 cup walnut halves
• 3 tbsp white granulated sugar (or substitute with brown sugar)
• 1 tbsp cold water

Garnish

• 1 green onion (finely chopped)

How to Make Quick & Easy Honey Walnut Shrimp

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, combine all sauce ingredients: mayonnaise, sweetened condensed milk, honey, and lemon juice. Mix well until smooth and set aside.

Step 2: Make Candied Walnuts

In a non-stick pan on medium heat:
1. Add sugar followed by cold water.
2. Stir constantly until it starts to simmer.
3. Once syrup thickens enough to coat the spatula, add walnut halves quickly.
4. Mix well to coat evenly.
5. Remove from heat when walnuts are coated and transfer them onto parchment paper to cool.

Step 3: Season the Shrimp

In a large bowl:
1. Add peeled and deveined shrimp.
2. Season with salt and black pepper.

Step 4: Prepare the Batter

In another large bowl:
1. Whisk egg whites until foamy but not stiff.
2. Mix in cornstarch until you have a runny paste.
3. Add seasoned shrimp into the batter and coat well using tongs or chopsticks.

Step 5: Fry the Shrimp

In a large pan:
1. Heat vegetable oil on medium-high heat (around 350-375°F).
2. Fry shrimp in small batches for about 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
3. Use slotted spoon or tongs to remove cooked shrimp; drain on wire rack or paper towel lined baking sheet.

Step 6: Combine Everything

In a large bowl:
1. Toss crispy shrimp with candied walnuts.
2. Drizzle sauce over everything and mix gently until combined.
3. Garnish with finely chopped green onions before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Quick & Easy Honey Walnut Shrimp!

How to Serve Quick & Easy Honey Walnut Shrimp

Serving Quick & Easy Honey Walnut Shrimp is a delightful experience that can elevate any meal. This dish is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it perfect for gatherings or family dinners.

On a Bed of Rice

• Serve the honey walnut shrimp over steamed jasmine or brown rice for a filling meal that absorbs the sweet sauce beautifully.

With Stir-Fried Vegetables

• Pair the shrimp with colorful stir-fried vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, and carrots for added nutrition and crunch.

In Lettuce Wraps

• For a lighter option, serve the shrimp in crisp lettuce leaves. This adds freshness and makes for an interactive dining experience.

As an Appetizer

• Serve small portions of honey walnut shrimp as an appetizer at your next party. Garnish with green onions for a pop of color.

With Noodles

• Toss the shrimp with your favorite noodles, such as lo mein or rice noodles, for a hearty dish that combines flavors and textures.

With a Side Salad

• A simple garden salad drizzled with sesame dressing complements the sweetness of the honey walnut shrimp perfectly.

How to Perfect Quick & Easy Honey Walnut Shrimp

To achieve the best results with your Quick & Easy Honey Walnut Shrimp, consider these practical tips for perfecting your dish.

• Use Fresh Shrimp: Always opt for fresh or properly thawed shrimp to ensure the best texture and flavor.
• Control Oil Temperature: Maintain oil temperature between 350-375°F to achieve crispy shrimp without being greasy.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry shrimp in small batches to allow even cooking and prevent steaming.
• Whisk Egg Whites Just Right: Whisk egg whites until foamy but not stiff; this will give you a light coating that crisps up nicely.
• Prepare Candied Walnuts Beforehand: Make candied walnuts ahead of time for efficient assembly during cooking.
• Garnish Generously: A sprinkle of chopped green onions enhances flavor and presentation.

Best Side Dishes for Quick & Easy Honey Walnut Shrimp

Pairing side dishes with your Quick & Easy Honey Walnut Shrimp can enhance its flavors and create a balanced meal. Here are some delicious suggestions:

1. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and health benefits while complementing the sweetness of the shrimp.
2. Fried Rice: A classic choice; make sure to include vegetables like peas and carrots for added texture.
3. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing salad made with quinoa, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes offers a nutty contrast to the dish.
4. Garlic Noodles: Toss noodles in garlic butter for a savory side that pairs well with sweet flavors.
5. Asian Slaw: A crunchy slaw made from cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing provides a nice textural balance.
6. Coconut Rice: Sweet coconut rice enhances the flavors of honey walnut shrimp beautifully—just cook rice in coconut milk!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Quick & Easy Honey Walnut Shrimp can be a breeze, but there are common mistakes to watch out for.

• Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly. Fry them for just 2-3 minutes until golden brown to prevent a chewy texture.
• Not using the right oil temperature: If the oil is too cool, the shrimp will absorb excess oil. Aim for 350-375°F for a crispy finish.
• Skipping the candied walnuts: These add sweetness and crunch. Don’t skip this step; they elevate the dish significantly.
• Ignoring seasoning: A little salt and pepper can enhance flavor. Season shrimp before coating for a tastier bite.
• Crowding the pan: Fry in small batches. Overcrowding lowers oil temperature and leads to soggy shrimp.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They can be refrigerated for up to 2 days.

Freezing Quick & Easy Honey Walnut Shrimp

• Place cooled shrimp in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• They can last up to 2 months in the freezer.

Reheating Quick & Easy Honey Walnut Shrimp

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F. Place shrimp on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes until warm and crispy.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish and cover loosely. Heat in short intervals (30 seconds) until warm, though this may soften the shrimp.
• Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a little oil and reheat shrimp for about 3-4 minutes, flipping occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Quick & Easy Honey Walnut Shrimp.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just ensure they are thawed completely before cooking for the best texture.

What can I substitute for walnuts?

You can use pecans or almonds if you’re looking for alternatives to walnuts.

Is there a way to make this recipe healthier?

Consider using less sugar in the sauce or swapping out sweetened condensed milk with coconut cream for a lighter option.

How do I customize the sauce?

Feel free to adjust the honey level or add spices like garlic powder or ginger for extra flavor!

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare components like candied walnuts and sauce ahead of time. Just fry the shrimp when ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

This Quick & Easy Honey Walnut Shrimp recipe is not only delicious but also versatile! You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting sweetness levels. Give it a try, and enjoy how it brings restaurant-quality flavors right to your home kitchen!