Deliciously Sweet: Honey Walnut Shrimp Recipe
Are you ready to dive into a dish full of flavor and crunch? Honey Walnut Shrimp is a popular Chinese-American dish that perfectly combines crispy shrimp, sweet honey sauce, and crunchy walnuts. This delightful recipe brings together the best of both worlds: the joy of seafood and the sweetness of honey! It’s not just a meal; it’s a culinary experience that many people adore.
This dish has its roots in Chinese cuisine, but it has become a staple in many Chinese restaurants across the United States. Its unique flavor profile makes it a favorite among families and food enthusiasts alike. The balance of sweetness from honey, the nuttiness of walnuts, and the savory shrimp creates a taste sensation that people can’t resist. Let’s explore how to make this delicious dish at home!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Shrimp (peeled and deveined) | 1 pound |
| Walnuts | ½ cup |
| Honey | ¼ cup |
| Mayonnaise | ½ cup |
| Sweetened condensed milk | 2 tablespoons |
| Egg | 1 (beaten) |
| Cornstarch | ½ cup |
| Vegetable oil (for frying) | Enough for frying |
| Salt | To taste |
| Green onions (for garnish) | Optional |
Feel free to substitute shrimp with chicken or tofu for a different twist. And if you don’t have walnuts, you can use cashews or almonds!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp: Rinse and pat dry the shrimp. Season lightly with salt.
- Make the Walnuts: In a pan over medium heat, toast the walnuts for about 5 minutes until golden. Remove and set aside.
- Coat the Shrimp: In a bowl, mix the cornstarch with the beaten egg. Dip each shrimp into the mixture until fully coated.
- Fry the Shrimp: Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan over medium-high heat. Fry the coated shrimp for about 2-3 minutes or until golden and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Make the Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together honey, mayonnaise, and sweetened condensed milk until smooth.
- Combine Everything: In a large mixing bowl, combine the fried shrimp, sauce, and toasted walnuts. Gently toss until the shrimp and walnuts are well-coated.
- Serve: Plate the honey walnut shrimp and garnish with sliced green onions if desired. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount | Daily Value (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 400 | 20% |
| Protein | 25g | 50% |
| Carbohydrates | 35g | 12% |
| Fats | 20g | 30% |
| Sodium | 600mg | 26% |
| Fiber | 2g | 8% |
Tips and Tricks
- Perfectly Crispy Shrimp: Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying to ensure crispy shrimp.
- Less Sweet Alternative: If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the amount of honey or combine it with soy sauce for a savory twist.
- Store Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
- Avoid Overcrowding: When frying, avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even cooking.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before preparing.
What can I serve with Honey Walnut Shrimp?
This dish pairs well with steamed rice or fried rice, giving you a hearty meal.
How can I make this dish healthier?
You can bake the shrimp instead of frying them to cut down on oil and fat.
Can I make the sauce in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce a day ahead and store it in the fridge.
Is there a vegetarian option for this dish?
Yes! You can replace shrimp with tofu or use crispy vegetables.
How do I know when the shrimp are fully cooked?
The shrimp will turn pink and opaque when they are fully cooked, typically in 2-3 minutes when fried.
Can I use other nuts instead of walnuts?
Yes! Cashews or almonds can also work well in this dish.
What is the secret to a creamy sauce?
Mixing mayonnaise with sweetened condensed milk gives the sauce its unique creaminess and sweetness.
How spicy is this dish?
This recipe is not spicy at all. However, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you want some heat!
Now you know how to make Honey Walnut Shrimp at home! This dish is not only easy to prepare but also brings a taste of restaurant-quality dining right to your kitchen. Enjoy cooking and savor every bite!
