Quick & Easy Honey Walnut Shrimp

Crispy shrimp coated in a creamy sweet sauce with crunchy candied walnuts makes Quick & Easy Honey Walnut Shrimp a delightful dish for any occasion. This recipe is simple and quick, taking only 30 minutes to prepare. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, it offers the same delicious taste as your favorite takeout but at a fraction of the cost!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this recipe allows you to enjoy a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of sweet honey, creamy mayo, and crunchy walnuts creates an irresistible flavor that everyone will love.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this dish, making it a great choice for family meals or entertaining guests.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice or noodles, or enjoy it as an appetizer. This dish fits well into various dining experiences.
• Healthier Alternative: Skip the takeout and indulge in a homemade version that is fresher and tailored to your taste preferences.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, having the right tools is essential. Gather these items before you start:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Non-stick pan
• Large mixing bowls
• Tongs or chopsticks
• Slotted spoon
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick pan: Ensures easy cooking and prevents sticking during frying, making cleanup easier.
• Large mixing bowls: Provides ample space for mixing ingredients without spills or messes.

Ingredients

For this delightful Quick & Easy Honey Walnut Shrimp, you’ll need:

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 all sauce ingredients. Set aside for later use.

Step 2: Make Candied Walnuts

1. In a non-stick pan on medium heat, add sugar followed by cold water.
2. Stir constantly until it begins to simmer.
3. Once syrup thickens enough to coat a spatula, quickly add walnuts and mix to coat evenly.
4. Remove from heat when walnuts are coated and crusted. Transfer them one by one to parchment paper to cool.

Step 3: Prepare the Shrimp

1. In a large bowl, season peeled and deveined shrimp with salt and black pepper.
2. In another bowl, whisk egg whites until foamy but not stiff.
3. Mix in cornstarch until combined into a runny paste.
4. Add seasoned shrimp into the egg mixture; toss until completely coated.

Step 4: Fry the Shrimp

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large pan on medium-high heat until hot (around 350-375 degrees F).
2. Fry shrimp in small batches for about 2-3 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
3. Remove fried shrimp using a slotted spoon; transfer to a wire rack or paper towel-lined baking sheet to drain excess oil.

Step 5: Combine Everything

In a large bowl, toss together crispy shrimp, candied walnuts, and prepared sauce. Garnish with finely chopped green onions before serving.

Enjoy your homemade Quick & Easy Honey Walnut Shrimp! It’s sure to impress your family and friends!

How to Serve Quick & Easy Honey Walnut Shrimp

Quick & Easy Honey Walnut Shrimp is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just cooking for your family, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

Over Steamed Rice

• Serve the shrimp over a bed of fluffy steamed rice. The rice will soak up the sweet sauce, making each bite flavorful.

With Noodles

• Pair the shrimp with stir-fried noodles for a more filling meal. You can toss in some vegetables for added nutrition and color.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Create fresh lettuce wraps by placing shrimp and candied walnuts inside crisp lettuce leaves. This option adds a refreshing crunch and is great for lighter meals.

On a Salad

• Top a mixed greens salad with honey walnut shrimp for a delicious twist. Drizzle with additional honey or your favorite dressing for extra flavor.

As an Appetizer

• Serve the shrimp as an appetizer at gatherings. Arrange them on skewers or in small cups for easy sharing among guests.

How to Perfect Quick & Easy Honey Walnut Shrimp

To ensure that you achieve the best results with your Quick & Easy Honey Walnut Shrimp, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp will provide the best flavor and texture.
• Control Oil Temperature: Make sure your oil is hot enough (around 350-375 degrees F) before frying to achieve maximum crispiness without absorbing too much oil.
• Whisk Egg Whites Well: Whipping the egg whites until foamy helps create a light batter that coats the shrimp evenly.
• Avoid Overcrowding: Fry shrimp in small batches to maintain oil temperature and ensure even cooking.
• Prepare Candied Walnuts First: Making the candied walnuts ahead of time allows them to cool properly and maintain their crunchiness when mixed with shrimp.
• Serve Immediately: For the best texture and flavor, serve the honey walnut shrimp right after cooking while it’s still crispy.

Best Side Dishes for Quick & Easy Honey Walnut Shrimp

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

1. Fried Rice: A classic side that complements the sweetness of the shrimp while adding more texture.
2. Vegetable Stir-Fry: Colorful stir-fried vegetables can balance out the richness of the dish and add freshness.
3. Garlic Broccoli: Steamed or sautéed broccoli with garlic enhances both flavor and nutrition, making it a great pairing.
4. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad provides crunch and acidity, balancing out the sweet elements of the main dish.
5. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup adds warmth and complements Asian flavors nicely.
6. Spring Rolls: Crisp vegetable spring rolls make for a fun finger food option alongside this dish, adding variety to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Quick & Easy Honey Walnut Shrimp can be a breeze, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using the wrong type of shrimp: Always opt for fresh or frozen jumbo shrimp that are peeled and deveined. This ensures a better texture and flavor.
• Overcooking the shrimp: Fry the shrimp for only 2-3 minutes until golden brown. Overcooking can lead to a rubbery texture.
• Neglecting the batter consistency: Ensure your egg white and cornstarch mixture is smooth and runny. A thick batter will not coat the shrimp evenly.
• Skipping the candied walnuts: The crunchy walnuts add essential texture and taste. Don’t skip this step; it’s crucial for the dish’s authenticity!
• Crowding the frying pan: Fry shrimp in small batches to maintain temperature. Overcrowding lowers oil temperature and results in soggy shrimp.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Best consumed within 2 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Quick & Easy Honey Walnut Shrimp

• Freeze individual portions in freezer-safe bags.
• Will last up to 1 month in the freezer.

Reheating Quick & Easy Honey Walnut Shrimp

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through, maintaining crispiness.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in short intervals until warm. Be cautious as this may soften the shrimp.
• Stovetop: Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat, add a splash of oil, and reheat shrimp for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes! Just ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking for the best results.

What can I substitute for mayonnaise?

You can use regular mayonnaise if Japanese mayo is unavailable. Both will work well in this recipe.

How do I make this dish healthier?

To make it healthier, you can bake the shrimp instead of frying them or use less sugar in the sauce.

Can I customize the sauce?

Absolutely! You can adjust sweetness by adding more or less honey or even try adding some chili flakes for heat.

How can I make this dish vegan?

To make it vegan, substitute shrimp with plant-based alternatives and use coconut cream instead of mayonnaise.

Final Thoughts

This Quick & Easy Honey Walnut Shrimp recipe is not only quick but also incredibly tasty! It offers a delightful combination of crispy shrimp and sweet candied walnuts that both kids and adults will love. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the sweetness based on your preference – it’s versatile enough to suit any palate!