Name: Easy Honey Walnut Shrimp
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Ingredients: 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 cup walnuts, shelled; 1/2 cup honey; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon sweetened condensed milk; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup cornstarch; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1 egg, beaten; Vegetable oil for frying

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Some dishes are so simple yet so delicious, they quickly become a favorite. Easy Honey Walnut Shrimp is exactly that kind of recipe. It brings together crispy shrimp, a sweet and creamy honey sauce, and crunchy caramelized walnuts, creating a perfect balance of textures and flavors. This dish is inspired by the popular Chinese takeout option, but it’s incredibly easy to make right in your own kitchen.

The first time I made this dish, I was craving a takeout-style meal, but I didn’t want to deal with the hassle of ordering. I had some shrimp in the freezer and a few pantry staples, so I decided to give it a try. As the shrimp cooked and the walnuts caramelized in the sweet honey sauce, the entire kitchen was filled with the irresistible aroma of rich sweetness and savory shrimp. When I finally sat down to enjoy my creation, I realized I’d found a new favorite. This Honey Walnut Shrimp is now one of my go-to recipes for a quick and delicious meal that feels fancy but is so easy to prepare.

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This Easy Honey Walnut Shrimp takes less than 30 minutes to make, and the combination of crispy shrimp, creamy sauce, and crunchy walnuts is simply irresistible. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, a family dinner, or hosting a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress.

Why This Easy Honey Walnut Shrimp Works

Selling Points:

Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal prep and effort.
Crispy Shrimp, Creamy Sauce: The combination of crispy shrimp coated in a rich, sweet sauce is unbeatable.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for dinner, a weeknight treat, or serving guests at a dinner party.
Balanced Flavors: The sweetness of the honey sauce and the savory shrimp, combined with the crunch of walnuts, create a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Customizable: You can adjust the sweetness or spice level to fit your preferences.

What You Need for Easy Honey Walnut Shrimp

Ingredients:

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 cup walnuts, shelled
1/2 cup honey
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon sweetened condensed milk
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup cornstarch
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 egg, beaten
Vegetable oil for frying

How to Make Easy Honey Walnut Shrimp

Prepare the Walnuts:
In a small pan over medium heat, add the walnuts and a tablespoon of sugar. Stir frequently for about 3-5 minutes until the walnuts are golden brown and caramelized. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
Prepare the Shrimp:
In a medium bowl, mix cornstarch, flour, and salt. Dip each shrimp into the beaten egg and then dredge it in the flour mixture. Make sure the shrimp is fully coated for a crispy exterior.
Fry the Shrimp:
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the shrimp in batches and fry for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden and crispy. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and drain them on a paper towel-lined plate.
Make the Honey Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, mayonnaise, sweetened condensed milk, and lemon juice until smooth and creamy. The result should be a thick, creamy sauce that will coat the shrimp beautifully.
Combine the Shrimp and Sauce:
In a large bowl, gently toss the fried shrimp with the honey sauce until each shrimp is evenly coated.
Add the Walnuts:
Sprinkle the caramelized walnuts over the shrimp and toss again gently.
Serve:
Serve the Honey Walnut Shrimp immediately on a platter or over a bed of rice for a complete meal. Garnish with extra walnuts or a sprig of parsley, if desired.

Tips for the Perfect Honey Walnut Shrimp

Crispier Shrimp: Double-dip the shrimp (once in egg, then in the flour mixture) for an even crispier crust.
Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the honey or use a little less sweetened condensed milk.
Make it Spicy: Add a dash of chili flakes or a tablespoon of sriracha to the honey sauce for a sweet and spicy version.
Try a Different Nut: If you don’t have walnuts, try cashews or almonds for a different crunch.
Make-Ahead: While this dish is best served fresh, you can fry the shrimp ahead of time and store them in the fridge for a day or two. Reheat them in the oven for a crispy texture before coating with the sauce.

Substitutions and Variations

Non-Dairy Version: Swap the mayonnaise for a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream for a dairy-free version of the sauce.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to coat the shrimp for a gluten-free version.
Add Veggies: Toss in some sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for added color and nutrition.
Protein Swap: This recipe works well with other proteins like chicken breast, tofu, or even scallops.

Make a Healthier Version

Lower Sugar: Use less sweetened condensed milk and opt for a more natural sweetener like agave syrup or maple syrup to reduce the sugar content.
Baked Version: To make the shrimp a little lighter, bake the shrimp instead of frying them. Simply coat the shrimp and bake them on a parchment-lined baking sheet at 400°F for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Light Mayo: Use a lighter version of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt to reduce the fat content in the sauce.

Closing for Easy Honey Walnut Shrimp

Easy Honey Walnut Shrimp is the perfect blend of crispy, creamy, sweet, and savory in one dish. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or just want a quick and flavorful meal, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite. The balance of crispy shrimp, rich honey sauce, and crunchy walnuts is simply irresistible, and it takes no time at all to prepare. So gather your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy a delicious meal that feels both fancy and comforting at the same time!

Frequently Asked Questions for Easy Honey Walnut Shrimp

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before coating them in the flour mixture to ensure a crispy texture.

Can I use a different type of nut?
Absolutely! Cashews, almonds, or pecans are great alternatives to walnuts.

Can I make the honey sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the honey sauce a day or two ahead and refrigerate it until ready to use.

Can I make this dish without frying the shrimp?
Yes, you can bake the shrimp for a lighter option, but the texture will differ slightly.

How long do leftovers last?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Reheat them in the oven for the best texture.

This Easy Honey Walnut Shrimp is guaranteed to satisfy your cravings and impress your guests with its bold flavors and crispy texture. Happy cooking!