Honey Walnut Shrimp is a popular and indulgent dish that combines the crispiness of lightly battered shrimp with the rich, sweet flavor of honey sauce and the satisfying crunch of candied walnuts. This dish is a delightful mix of textures and flavors, with the succulent shrimp coated in a creamy, sweet honey-mayo sauce, and the caramelized walnuts adding a nutty, sweet contrast. Often found in Chinese-American restaurants, this dish is surprisingly easy to make at home, making it perfect for special occasions or when you’re craving something a little extra. Serve it with steamed rice and a side of vegetables for a deliciously decadent meal.
Ingredients:
For the Candied Walnuts:
- 1/2 cup walnut halves
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the Honey Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon sweetened condensed milk
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For Garnish:
- Green onions, sliced (optional)
- Sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions:
- Make the Candied Walnuts:
- In a small saucepan, combine the sugar and water over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture begins to simmer.
- Add the walnut halves and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the walnuts are glazed and the syrup thickens slightly.
- Transfer the walnuts to a parchment-lined baking sheet and let them cool and harden.
- Prepare the Shrimp:
- In a bowl, toss the shrimp with cornstarch, salt, and black pepper until they are evenly coated.
- Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Fry the shrimp in batches for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove the shrimp and drain on paper towels.
- Make the Honey Sauce:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, honey, sweetened condensed milk, and lemon juice until smooth.
- Combine and Serve:
- Add the fried shrimp to the bowl with the honey sauce and toss to coat evenly. Gently fold in the candied walnuts.
- Transfer the shrimp to a serving dish and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Honey Walnut Shrimp is a deliciously sweet and savory dish that’s sure to impress with its combination of flavors and textures. Whether served as a main dish or as part of a larger meal, this restaurant-quality recipe is a treat that you can easily enjoy at home.
