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Honey Walnut Shrimp Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4 from 67 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Chinese-American
  • Diet: Pescatarian

Description

Honey Walnut Shrimp is a popular Chinese-American dish featuring crispy fried shrimp coated in a sweet and creamy honey sauce, topped with crunchy candied walnuts. This delightful combination offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors, making it a favorite for family dinners or special occasions.


Ingredients

Shrimp and Coating

  • 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
  • 1/2 cup walnuts
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 2 egg whites
  • Vegetable oil (for frying)

Honey Sauce

  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice


Instructions

  1. Candy the Walnuts: In a small saucepan, combine 1/2 cup water and 1/2 cup granulated sugar and bring to a boil. Add 1/2 cup walnuts and boil for 2 minutes to candy them. Use a slotted spoon to remove the walnuts and place them on a parchment-lined plate to dry and harden.
  2. Prepare the Shrimp Coating: In a mixing bowl, whisk 2 egg whites until frothy. Add 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp and toss to coat evenly. In a separate bowl, add 1/2 cup cornstarch for dredging.
  3. Dredge the Shrimp: Take each shrimp and dredge it in the cornstarch, ensuring it’s evenly coated, then shake off any excess cornstarch.
  4. Fry the Shrimp: Heat 2 to 3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Fry the shrimp in batches for 2 to 3 minutes, or until they turn golden and crispy. Remove the shrimp and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
  5. Make the Honey Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons honey, 1 tablespoon sweetened condensed milk, and 1 teaspoon lemon juice until smooth and well combined.
  6. Toss and Serve: Toss the fried shrimp gently in the honey sauce until fully coated. Top with the candied walnuts. Serve immediately, optionally over steamed rice or in lettuce cups for a refreshing presentation.

Notes

  • For a lighter version, try air-frying or baking the shrimp until crispy before tossing them in the honey sauce.
  • Serve over steamed white rice or in lettuce cups for a more refreshing meal.
  • Make sure to drain the fried shrimp well to keep them crispy and prevent sogginess when sauced.