If you’re craving a dish that combines sweetness with savory flavors, look no further than this honey walnut shrimp recipe. This delightful dish features crispy shrimp coated in a luscious honey sauce, complemented by the nutty crunch of walnuts. Perfect for a family dinner or an elegant gathering, this recipe will impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds.
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup walnuts
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, with a cooking time of about 10 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (approximately 1/4 of the dish) contains about 350 calories, 15g of protein, 25g of carbohydrates, and 20g of fat. This nutritional value is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Start by preparing your shrimp: rinse and pat them dry.
- In a bowl, mix cornstarch, flour, salt, and pepper.
- Dredge the shrimp in the flour mixture, ensuring they are well-coated.
- Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs and dip each shrimp into the egg wash.
- Fry the shrimp in batches until golden and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Once cooked, remove shrimp and drain on paper towels.
- In another pan, toast the walnuts until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix honey, mayonnaise, and condensed milk until smooth.
- Toss the fried shrimp in the honey mixture and add the toasted walnuts.
Alternative Ingredients
If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. For those allergic to nuts, you can skip the walnuts entirely or replace them with toasted sunflower seeds.
Serving and Pairings
Honey walnut shrimp pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice or a fresh garden salad. You can also serve it alongside stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat to maintain the shrimp’s crispy texture. Avoid freezing, as the shrimp may become rubbery.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the shrimp can make them tough; cook just until pink and opaque.
- Ensure oil is hot enough before frying; otherwise, the shrimp may absorb too much oil.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan while frying; this lowers the oil temperature.
- Mix the honey sauce just before serving to keep it fresh.
- Be mindful of the cornstarch; too much can make the shrimp gummy.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust the sweetness of the sauce by adding more or less honey.
- For extra crunch, sprinkle sesame seeds on top before serving.
- Serve immediately after cooking for the best texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to achieve the best results.
What can I substitute for walnuts?
If you have nut allergies, consider using toasted sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds as a crunchy alternative.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
While the shrimp can be cooked ahead of time, it’s best to prepare the sauce fresh to maintain its flavor and texture.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the honey sauce for a spicy kick or serve with a spicy dipping sauce on the side.
Can I bake the shrimp instead of frying?
Yes, you can bake the shrimp at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-12 minutes, but they may not be as crispy as the fried version.
Conclusion
This honey walnut shrimp recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will please any palate. With its crispy shrimp and sweet sauce, it’s a perfect dish for any occasion. Try it out, and enjoy the impressive results!
Honey Walnut Shrimp Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp peeled and deveined
- 1 cup walnuts
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs beaten
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- Rinse and pat dry the shrimp.
- In a bowl, mix cornstarch, flour, salt, and pepper.
- Dredge the shrimp in the flour mixture.
- Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs and dip each shrimp into the egg wash.
- Fry the shrimp in batches until golden and crispy.
- Remove shrimp and drain on paper towels.
- Toast the walnuts until golden brown.
- Mix honey, mayonnaise, and condensed milk until smooth.
- Toss the fried shrimp in the honey mixture and add the toasted walnuts.
