Quick & Easy Honey Walnut Shrimp

Crispy shrimp coated in a creamy sweet sauce with crunchy candied walnuts makes this Quick & Easy Honey Walnut Shrimp a delightful dish for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a family dinner, this recipe is not only simple but also budget-friendly, surpassing your favorite Chinese takeout. With minimal ingredients and just 30 minutes of your time, you can create a mouthwatering meal that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of sweet honey and creamy mayo creates a unique sauce that enhances the shrimp’s natural flavor.
• Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the crispy shrimp and crunchy walnuts, making it a hit at the dinner table.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it as an appetizer or main course; it fits perfectly into any meal plan.
• Budget-Friendly: Save money by making this at home instead of ordering takeout.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare the Quick & Easy Honey Walnut Shrimp, having the right tools can make all the difference. Here’s what you need to get started.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Non-stick pan
• Large bowl
• Slotted spoon or tongs
• Wire rack or paper towels
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick pan: Ensures that the walnuts don’t stick while candying, making cleanup easier.
• Large bowl: Perfect for mixing ingredients without spilling.
• Slotted spoon or tongs: Allows for safe removal of shrimp from hot oil while keeping excess oil at bay.

Ingredients

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 sub 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 sub with normal 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 sub with brown sugar)
• 1 tbsp water (cold)

Garnish

• 1 green onion (finely chopped)

How to Make Quick & Easy Honey Walnut Shrimp

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, combine the sauce ingredients—Japanese mayo, sweetened condensed milk, honey, and lemon juice. Mix well and set aside.

Step 2: Candy the Walnuts

In a non-stick pan over medium heat:
1. Add sugar followed by cold water.
2. Stir constantly until it simmers.
3. Once thickened enough to coat your spatula, add walnuts.
4. Quickly mix to ensure even coating.
5. Remove from heat when coated; transfer walnuts to parchment paper to cool.

Step 3: Prepare the Shrimp

In a large bowl:
1. Add peeled shrimp and season with salt and black pepper.
2. In another bowl, whisk egg whites until foamy, then add cornstarch to create a runny paste.
3. Mix seasoned shrimp into the batter until fully coated.

Step 4: Fry the Shrimp

Heat vegetable oil in a large pan on medium-high heat:
1. Once hot (around 350-375 degrees F), fry shrimp in small batches for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
2. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure crispiness.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Using a slotted spoon or tongs, remove shrimp from oil:
1. Place on wire rack or paper towel-lined baking sheet to drain excess oil.
2. In a large bowl, combine crispy shrimp with candied walnuts and sauce.
3. Toss gently and garnish with finely chopped green onions before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Quick & Easy Honey Walnut Shrimp, perfect for impressing family and friends!

How to Serve Quick & Easy Honey Walnut Shrimp

Serving Quick & Easy Honey Walnut Shrimp can elevate your dining experience. Whether it’s a family dinner or a special occasion, these serving suggestions will help you impress your guests.

Pair with Rice

• Steamed Jasmine Rice – The fragrant rice complements the sweet and savory flavors of the shrimp perfectly.
• Fried Rice – For added texture, serve with vegetable fried rice for a heartier meal.

Add Fresh Vegetables

• Stir-Fried Broccoli – Crisp-tender broccoli adds color and nutrition to your plate.
• Mixed Greens Salad – A light salad with sesame dressing balances the richness of the dish.

Garnish Creatively

• Chopped Green Onions – Sprinkle on top for an extra burst of flavor and color.
• Sesame Seeds – Toasted sesame seeds add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to the dish.

Enjoy with Dipping Sauces

• Sweet Chili Sauce – A tangy dipping sauce that enhances the sweetness of the shrimp.
• Soy Sauce – Traditional soy sauce offers a salty contrast that pairs well with the honey glaze.

How to Perfect Quick & Easy Honey Walnut Shrimp

To ensure your Quick & Easy Honey Walnut Shrimp turns out just right, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Shrimp – Fresh shrimp yield better flavor and texture compared to frozen options.
• Monitor Oil Temperature – Maintain oil between 350-375°F for perfectly crispy shrimp.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan – Fry in small batches so each shrimp cooks evenly and stays crispy.
• Prepare Candied Walnuts First – Making walnuts ahead keeps them crunchy when mixed with warm shrimp.
• Toss Gently – When mixing shrimp, walnuts, and sauce, toss gently to avoid breaking the crispy coating.

Best Side Dishes for Quick & Easy Honey Walnut Shrimp

Pairing side dishes with your Quick & Easy Honey Walnut Shrimp can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Fried Rice – A classic side that can be customized with vegetables or proteins for added flavor.
2. Vegetable Lo Mein – This noodle dish is a great complement, adding more texture and taste variety.
3. Spring Rolls – These crispy appetizers provide a delightful crunch before the main course.
4. Miso Soup – A light soup that cleanses the palate and prepares you for more savory flavors.
5. Garlic Bok Choy – Sautéed bok choy brings a nutritious green element to your plate.
6. Steamed Dumplings – Soft dumplings are perfect for soaking up any extra sauce from the shrimp.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Quick & Easy Honey Walnut Shrimp, it’s easy to run into some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Overcooking shrimp: Cooking shrimp too long can make them tough. Fry them just until they turn golden brown and crispy for the perfect texture.
• Not frying in small batches: Frying too many shrimp at once lowers the oil temperature, leading to soggy shrimp. Fry in small batches for that desired crispiness.
• Ignoring the sauce: Skipping or rushing the sauce preparation can result in a bland dish. Take time to mix the sauce ingredients thoroughly for balanced flavor.
• Using stale walnuts: Old walnuts can ruin the dish with a bitter taste. Always use fresh walnuts for the best crunch and sweetness.
• Skipping seasoning: Failing to season shrimp properly leads to a lack of flavor. Don’t forget to use salt and pepper before coating them with batter.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Quick & Easy Honey Walnut Shrimp in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Freezing Quick & Easy Honey Walnut Shrimp

• Place cooled shrimp and walnuts in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months, but note that texture may change upon reheating.

Reheating Quick & Easy Honey Walnut Shrimp

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread shrimp on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until hot and crispy.
• Microwave: Place shrimp on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a little oil and reheat shrimp until heated through, about 3-5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Quick & Easy Honey Walnut Shrimp.

Can I make Quick & Easy Honey Walnut Shrimp ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce and candied walnuts ahead of time, but it’s best to fry the shrimp fresh right before serving for optimal crispiness.

What can I substitute for Japanese mayo?

If you don’t have Japanese mayo, regular mayonnaise works well but may slightly alter the flavor. Try mixing it with a touch of sugar for sweetness.

How do I ensure my shrimp are crispy?

To ensure crispy shrimp, make sure your oil is hot enough before frying, around 350-375°F (175-190°C). Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry before proceeding with the recipe.

Is there a way to customize Quick & Easy Honey Walnut Shrimp?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for extra nutrition or try different nuts if you prefer something other than walnuts.

Final Thoughts

Quick & Easy Honey Walnut Shrimp is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. This recipe allows room for customization based on your preferences and dietary needs. Whether you enjoy it as a family dinner or impressing guests, this dish is sure to satisfy. Don’t hesitate to try making it at home!