If you’re craving a dish that’s packed with flavor and crunch, look no further than Honey Walnut Shrimp. This delightful meal features juicy shrimp coated in a sweet, creamy sauce and paired with crispy walnuts. In this blog, I’ll guide you through each step, share tips for perfect frying, and explore variations to suit any diet. Get ready to impress your taste buds and your guests with this irresistible recipe!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup walnuts, toasted
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup honey
These main ingredients create the base for our dish. The large shrimp give a juicy bite. The walnuts add crunch and depth. Mayonnaise makes the sauce creamy, while honey brings sweetness.
Seasoning and Coating
– 1 tablespoon sweetened condensed milk
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 cup cornstarch
The sweetened condensed milk adds richness. Lemon juice brightens the flavor. Garlic powder gives a hint of savory taste. Cornstarch coats the shrimp, ensuring they fry up crispy.
Cooking Essentials
– Vegetable oil (for frying)
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Chopped green onions for garnish
Vegetable oil is key for frying. It needs to be hot for a perfect crisp. Salt and pepper season the shrimp just right. Chopped green onions add color and fresh flavor to the final dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, honey, sweetened condensed milk, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until smooth. This sauce gives the dish its sweet and creamy flavor. Set it aside so the flavors can blend.
Preparing the Shrimp
First, pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. This step helps the coating stick well. Next, season the shrimp lightly with salt and pepper. Take a shallow bowl and fill it with cornstarch. Dredge each shrimp in the cornstarch until it is well-coated. Shake off any excess. This step makes the shrimp crispy when cooked.
Cooking the Shrimp
In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Aim for about 350°F. You’ll know it’s ready when the oil shimmers. Fry the shrimp in batches, so they have space. Cook them for 3-4 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. Use a slotted spoon to remove the shrimp and let them drain on paper towels.
Final Assembly
In a large mixing bowl, combine the fried shrimp with the prepared honey sauce. Gently fold the shrimp until they are evenly coated. Add the toasted walnuts and fold them in for extra crunch. Serve immediately and garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh touch.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving Perfectly Fried Shrimp
To fry shrimp well, pay attention to oil temperature. Heat your vegetable oil to about 350°F. Use a kitchen thermometer for accuracy. If the oil is too cool, the shrimp will soak up oil. If it’s too hot, they can burn.
Fry the shrimp in small batches. This helps keep the oil temperature steady. Overcrowding the pan can lead to uneven cooking. Aim to fry about 6-8 shrimp at once. This way, they cook evenly and get that perfect golden color.
Flavor Enhancements
You can boost your sauce with simple tweaks. Try adding a splash of soy sauce for a salty kick. A few drops of sriracha can add spice. You can also mix in some orange juice for a fruity twist.
Feel free to season the shrimp before coating them. Adding spices like cayenne pepper or paprika can enhance the flavor. Just remember, keep it balanced so the sauce shines through.
Presentation Tips
Serving Honey Walnut Shrimp can be fun! Use a large white plate to make the colors pop. Arrange the shrimp in a neat pile for visual appeal.
For garnish, sprinkle chopped green onions on top. They add a fresh taste and bright color. You can also add a few toasted walnuts on top for crunch. Serve with a side of steamed rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Variations
Alternative Proteins
You can easily switch the shrimp for chicken or tofu. Chicken breast works well. Just cut it into bite-sized pieces. Cook it until golden brown. Tofu is a great choice for a plant-based option. Use firm tofu and press it to remove excess moisture. Then, coat and fry it just like the shrimp.
Dietary Modifications
For a low-calorie version, use less mayonnaise and honey. You can replace the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. This adds creaminess without as many calories. For a gluten-free option, use cornstarch for coating. Make sure to check all labels for hidden gluten in sauces.
Flavor Variations
You can add spices or herbs to change the flavor. A pinch of cayenne pepper adds heat. Try fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for a fresh twist. If you want a sweet and sour taste, mix in some rice vinegar. This creates a nice balance with the honey. These small changes can make a big difference in flavor!
Storage Info
Leftover Storage
After enjoying your honey walnut shrimp, store leftovers in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh. Place them in the fridge within two hours of cooking. They will last for up to three days. To prevent sogginess, avoid stacking shrimp on top of each other. Instead, layer them with parchment paper in between.
Reheating Suggestions
When reheating, you want to keep that crispy texture. Avoid microwaving, as it makes the shrimp rubbery. Instead, use an oven or air fryer. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Spread the shrimp on a baking sheet in a single layer. Heat for about 10-12 minutes or until hot and crispy. If using an air fryer, set it to 350°F and cook for about 5-7 minutes.
Freezing and Thawing
If you have extra honey walnut shrimp, you can freeze them. Place the cooled shrimp in a freezer-safe bag. Squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing. They will stay good for up to three months. To thaw, place them in the fridge overnight. Reheat as mentioned above to restore their crunch.
FAQs
What is the origin of Honey Walnut Shrimp?
Honey Walnut Shrimp comes from Chinese-American cuisine. It blends sweet and savory flavors. Many people enjoy it in Chinese restaurants. This dish showcases shrimp’s natural sweetness, paired with honey and walnuts. The walnuts add a nice crunch. This dish has become popular in many places, making it a favorite for many.
Can I make Honey Walnut Shrimp ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare some parts ahead of time. You can make the sauce and store it in the fridge. Keep the sauce in an airtight container for up to three days. For the shrimp, coat them in cornstarch and keep them in the fridge. Fry them right before serving for the best taste and texture.
What can I serve with Honey Walnut Shrimp?
Honey Walnut Shrimp pairs well with several side dishes. Here are some ideas:
– Steamed rice or fried rice
– Stir-fried vegetables
– Spring rolls
– Asian-style salads
These sides balance the dish’s sweetness and enhance the meal.
Is Honey Walnut Shrimp healthy?
Honey Walnut Shrimp is tasty but not the healthiest choice. It is high in calories and fat due to frying. To make it healthier, consider these tips:
– Bake the shrimp instead of frying
– Use less mayonnaise in the sauce
– Serve with a side of fresh veggies
These changes can help reduce calories while keeping the dish flavorful.
This blog post covered how to make Honey Walnut Shrimp from start to finish. You learned about key ingredients like large shrimp, walnuts, and a creamy sauce. I shared step-by-step cooking tips to help achieve the perfect fry and flavor. You can customize the dish with alternative proteins or flavors, making it your own.
Enjoy your cooking journey, and don’t hesitate to experiment with your own ideas!
