Craving a creamy, savory, and slightly sweet dish that’s packed with flavor? Look no further than honey walnut shrimp recipe! This dish combines succulent shrimp with a rich, creamy sauce and crispy caramelized walnuts, creating a perfect balance of textures and tastes. It’s like a symphony of flavors in every bite, with the sweetness of honey blending seamlessly with the richness of the shrimp and the crunchy walnuts.
Have you ever walked into a Chinese restaurant and immediately been drawn to the honey walnut shrimp on the menu? It’s a dish that’s not only a crowd-pleaser but also surprisingly easy to make at home. Forget about those complicated recipes with ingredients you can’t pronounce. Honey Walnut Shrimp is simple, quick to prepare, and perfect for family dinners or date nights at home. You won’t believe how fast you can whip up this dish that tastes like it came straight from your favorite restaurant!
If you’re a fan of easy, tasty meals like our General Tso’s Chicken or Sweet and Sour Chicken, you’ll love this recipe too. Both are flavorful and family-friendly, making them the perfect addition to your home-cooked meal rotation. So, grab your apron, and let’s get cooking this delightful dish that’s going to wow your taste buds!
What is Honey Walnut Shrimp?
Ever wondered about the origins of a dish like Honey Walnut Shrimp? It’s one of those foods that feels fancy, but when you break it down, it’s surprisingly simple! The name “Honey Walnut Shrimp” pretty much tells you everything you need to know about this dish: juicy shrimp coated in a luscious, creamy honey sauce, with crunchy walnuts tossed in for an extra punch of flavor. Who could resist that combination?
Some might say it’s the perfect balance between sweet and savory, and we can’t help but agree. And let’s not forget the saying, “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.” So, if you want to impress someone, whether it’s a family member or a special someone, this dish is the ticket. It’s a culinary hug in every bite! So, why not give it a try and treat your loved ones to a dish they won’t soon forget?
Why You’ll Love This Honey Walnut Shrimp
So, why should you give Honey Walnut Shrimp a try? Here are three reasons:
- The Main Highlight: The sweet and savory sauce that coats each piece of shrimp is undeniably delicious. It’s the perfect combination of rich creaminess from the mayonnaise and a slight sweetness from the honey, creating a sauce that’ll have everyone coming back for more. The walnuts add a delightful crunch, giving you a textural contrast that brings the dish to life.
- Cost-Saving Benefits: Ordering this dish at a restaurant might cost you a pretty penny, but making it at home is a fantastic way to save money without sacrificing flavor. You can make this dish in under 30 minutes, and the ingredients are affordable and easy to find at your local grocery store.
- Flavorful Toppings and Ingredients: The walnuts aren’t just for show—they’re toasted in a sweet syrup until crispy and golden brown, adding a fantastic flavor and texture. With juicy shrimp and a creamy sauce that’s just the right level of sweet, it’s a flavor-packed dish that’s sure to please.
If you’re someone who loves trying new things, you might want to check out our Orange Chicken recipe too! It’s another dish that pairs sweetness with savory flavors in a way that will make your taste buds do a happy dance. Ready to try Honey Walnut Shrimp at home? Let’s dive into how to make this incredible dish!
How to Make honey walnut shrimp recipe
Quick Overview
This Honey Walnut Shrimp recipe is quick, delicious, and incredibly satisfying. In just under 30 minutes, you can have a restaurant-quality dish right at your table. The shrimp are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and coated in a rich honey sauce that’s impossible to resist. If you’re new to cooking, don’t worry—this recipe is straightforward, and the results are absolutely worth the effort.
Key Ingredients for honey walnut shrimp recipe
To make Honey Walnut Shrimp, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound of large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup walnuts (shelled)
- 1/4 cup sugar (for caramelizing walnuts)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon sweetened condensed milk
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup cornstarch (for coating the shrimp)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- Vegetable oil for frying
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prepare the Walnuts: In a small skillet, add the sugar and a splash of water over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the sugar dissolves and begins to form a light syrup. Add the walnuts and cook for 3–5 minutes, until they’re caramelized and golden. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
- Coat the Shrimp: In a bowl, mix together the cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Dredge the shrimp in the cornstarch mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated. Shake off any excess.
- Fry the Shrimp: Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the shrimp and fry for 2-3 minutes until they’re golden brown and crispy. Remove and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Make the Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, honey, sweetened condensed milk, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well-combined.
- Combine Everything: Gently toss the fried shrimp in the creamy sauce until they’re fully coated. Add the caramelized walnuts and give everything a final toss to combine.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve your Honey Walnut Shrimp immediately, garnished with extra walnuts if desired. This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice or a side of sautéed vegetables.
What to Serve honey walnut shrimp recipe With
Honey Walnut Shrimp is a showstopper on its own, but it’s always nice to have complementary dishes on the side. Here are a few ideas:
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fragrant, fluffy rice soaks up the creamy sauce, making it the perfect sidekick to this dish.
- Sautéed Vegetables: A side of sautéed broccoli, snow peas, or bell peppers adds a crunchy contrast to the rich shrimp.
- Spring Rolls: Light, crispy spring rolls filled with veggies or shrimp are a great appetizer that complements the flavors of Honey Walnut Shrimp.
- Chilled Cucumber Salad: A fresh cucumber salad with a tangy dressing can balance the sweetness of the dish.
Top Tips for Perfecting honey walnut shrimp recipe
- Use Fresh Shrimp: For the best texture and flavor, use fresh or properly thawed shrimp. Frozen shrimp can become rubbery when cooked, so opt for the freshest shrimp available.
- Caramelizing Walnuts: Make sure you don’t burn the sugar while caramelizing the walnuts. Stir frequently and keep a close eye on them—they should be golden and crispy, not dark brown.
- Adjust Sweetness: If you like your sauce extra sweet, feel free to add a bit more honey or sweetened condensed milk to suit your taste.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Frying Pan: When frying the shrimp, avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry them in batches to ensure each shrimp gets crispy and doesn’t stick together.
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you happen to have leftovers, Honey Walnut Shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat, stirring gently until warmed through. While the shrimp can be reheated, they’re best enjoyed fresh for the crispiest texture. If you have extra sauce, store it separately to prevent the shrimp from becoming soggy.
Honey Walnut Shrimp can also be frozen if you want to make a large batch for future meals. To freeze, place the cooked shrimp on a baking sheet in a single layer, freeze them for 1-2 hours, and then transfer them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat in the oven for a crispy finish!
FAQs
Is shrimp sauce and paste the same?
No, shrimp sauce and shrimp paste are not the same. Shrimp sauce is typically a condiment made from fermented shrimp, while shrimp paste is a thicker, more concentrated product used as a seasoning.
Why is shrimp paste pink?
Shrimp paste turns pink due to the natural pigments in the shrimp shells and the fermentation process. Additionally, some varieties may include added coloring for a more vibrant appearance.
What is shrimp sauce made of?
Shrimp sauce is made from fermented shrimp, salt, and sometimes sugar or vinegar. It has a strong, savory flavor and is commonly used in Southeast Asian cuisines.
Is honey sauce real honey?
Yes, honey sauce typically contains real honey as a primary ingredient. However, it may also include other components like sugar, butter, or cream to enhance its texture and flavor.
Is honey walnut shrimp good?
Absolutely! Honey walnut shrimp is a delicious dish that combines crispy shrimp, a creamy honey glaze, and crunchy candied walnuts. It’s a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors.
Is honey walnut shrimp real Chinese food?
Honey walnut shrimp is not traditional Chinese food but rather an American-Chinese creation. It combines elements of Chinese cuisine with Western flavors to create a unique and popular dish.
What is in the honey walnut shrimp at Panda Express?
Panda Express’s honey walnut shrimp features crispy shrimp, a creamy honey sauce, and candied walnuts. It’s a fan favorite for its sweet and savory taste.
What goes with honey walnut shrimp?
Honey walnut shrimp pairs well with steamed rice, fried rice, or noodles. Additionally, you can serve it with stir-fried vegetables or a light salad for a complete meal.
What is honey walnut shrimp sauce made of?
The sauce for honey walnut shrimp typically combines honey, mayonnaise, condensed milk, and sometimes lemon juice or vinegar. This combination creates a creamy, sweet, and tangy glaze.
Conclusion
Honey Walnut Shrimp is the perfect dish to add a touch of elegance to any meal, while still being incredibly easy and quick to prepare. The combination of crispy shrimp, creamy sauce, and crunchy caramelized walnuts creates a mouthwatering balance of textures and flavors that will have your guests asking for the recipe. You can make this crowd-pleasing dish at home for a fraction of the price you’d pay at a restaurant—it’s definitely worth trying!
Whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned pro, this recipe is simple enough for everyone to master. And if you’re looking for more delicious and easy recipes to add to your rotation, be sure to check out these amazing dishes:
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There’s a whole world of recipes waiting for you on our blog, so don’t forget to explore and find more inspiration for your next meal. Enjoy making this Honey Walnut Shrimp, and we can’t wait to hear how it turns out! Happy cooking!