Honey Walnut Shrimp

If you’ve ever dined at a Chinese restaurant, chances are you’ve seen Honey Walnut Shrimp on the menu. This dish is the perfect balance of crispy, creamy, sweet, and savory, featuring tender shrimp coated in a light, crispy batter, tossed in a luscious honey-mayo sauce, and topped with crunchy, candied walnuts. It’s the ultimate indulgence, packed with restaurant-quality flavors—but the good news? You can easily make it at home!

Honey Walnut Shrimp is a beloved Cantonese dish that has gained massive popularity worldwide, especially in Chinese-American restaurants. The combination of crispy shrimp, creamy sauce, and caramelized walnuts creates a delightful contrast in both texture and taste. The sweet and creamy glaze brings out the natural sweetness of the shrimp, while the candied walnuts add an irresistible crunch.

While this dish might seem complicated, it’s surprisingly easy to prepare at home in just 30 minutes. The shrimp are lightly battered and fried, then coated in a velvety sauce made with honey, mayonnaise, and condensed milk—a signature combination that makes this dish stand out. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion, a dinner party, or simply craving takeout flavors, this homemade version will rival your favorite restaurant’s dish!

Why You’ll Love This Honey Walnut Shrimp

If you love crispy shrimp, sweet-savory sauces, and crunchy nuts, this dish is guaranteed to become a new favorite.

One of the best things about Honey Walnut Shrimp is the incredible contrast in textures. You get the light, crispy exterior of the shrimp, the smooth and creamy sauce, and the crunchy candied walnuts—all in one bite. This mix of textures makes every mouthful exciting and satisfying.

Another reason to love this dish is that it’s easier to make than you think. While it may look fancy, the process is quite simple:

1. Coat and fry the shrimp for a crispy base.
2. Prepare the creamy honey sauce with just a few ingredients.
3. Candy the walnuts for a caramelized crunch.

The flavor balance is spot on—the slight tanginess from the mayonnaise, the natural sweetness of honey, and the nutty richness of walnuts create a harmony of flavors that keeps you coming back for more.

Lastly, making it at home means you can control everything—the quality of ingredients, the level of sweetness, and the portion size. No more small, overpriced takeout portions—just fresh, delicious, homemade Honey Walnut Shrimp!

Preparation Time and Yield

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 520 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 28g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 22g

Ingredients for Honey Walnut Shrimp

For the Candied Walnuts:

• ½ cup walnuts
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup water

For the Shrimp:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon white pepper
• ½ cup cornstarch
• 2 egg whites
• ½ cup vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Honey Mayo Sauce:

• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon sweetened condensed milk
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

For Garnish:

• Chopped green onions (optional)
• Sesame seeds (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

for Honey Walnut Shrimp

Step 1: Make the Candied Walnuts

1. In a small saucepan, bring ½ cup water and ⅓ cup sugar to a boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Add the walnuts and let them simmer for 5 minutes, allowing them to soak in the sugar syrup.
3. Remove the walnuts with a slotted spoon and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet to cool. They will harden and become crunchy as they dry.

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp

1. Pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel. Season them with salt and white pepper.
2. In a small bowl, whisk the egg whites until frothy.
3. In a separate bowl, add the cornstarch.
4. Dip each shrimp into the egg whites, then coat them in cornstarch, shaking off excess.

Step 3: Fry the Shrimp

1. Heat ½ cup vegetable oil in a deep skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat.
2. Once the oil is hot (about 350°F/175°C), add the shrimp in batches, frying for 2-3 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
3. Transfer the fried shrimp to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 4: Make the Honey Mayo Sauce

1. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, honey, condensed milk, and lemon juice until smooth.

Step 5: Toss Everything Together

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the crispy shrimp and honey mayo sauce. Toss gently to coat the shrimp evenly.
2. Add the candied walnuts and mix lightly.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds, if desired.
2. Serve immediately with steamed jasmine rice or on its own as an appetizer.

Ingredient Background

Honey Walnut Shrimp is a fusion dish that originated in Cantonese cuisine but has become especially popular in Chinese-American restaurants. The key ingredients each play an important role in making this dish crispy, creamy, and deliciously sweet-savory.

Shrimp: The Star of the Dish

Using large shrimp (such as 16/20 count) ensures a meaty, juicy texture that holds up well against frying and the creamy sauce. Shrimp naturally have a sweet, delicate flavor, which complements the rich honey-mayo sauce perfectly.

Cornstarch: The Secret to Crispiness

Unlike traditional battered shrimp, Honey Walnut Shrimp is coated in a light cornstarch crust, making it extra crispy without being heavy. Cornstarch creates a delicate, crunchy shell that absorbs the sauce beautifully without getting soggy too quickly.

Candied Walnuts: The Crunch Factor

Walnuts add the perfect crunch to this dish, balancing out the creamy sauce and crispy shrimp. The candied coating gives them a sweet, caramelized flavor, which contrasts beautifully with the savory elements.

The Honey-Mayo Sauce: The Signature Flavor

The creamy, slightly sweet, and tangy sauce is what makes Honey Walnut Shrimp so addictive. It’s made with:

• Mayonnaise (for creaminess)
• Honey (for sweetness)
• Condensed milk (for richness)
• Lemon juice (for a touch of acidity to balance the flavors)

Technique Tips for Honey Walnut Shrimp

1. Use Egg Whites for the Lightest Coating

Instead of a heavy batter, whisked egg whites help the cornstarch stick to the shrimp, giving them a thin, crispy crust that won’t overpower the dish.

2. Fry at the Right Temperature

For the best texture, fry the shrimp at 350°F (175°C). If the oil is too hot, the shrimp will cook too quickly and become rubbery. If it’s too cool, the shrimp will absorb too much oil and turn greasy.

3. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan

Fry the shrimp in batches to maintain even cooking and crispiness. Overcrowding the pan lowers the oil temperature, making the shrimp soggy instead of crispy.

4. Cool the Candied Walnuts Properly

After simmering the walnuts in sugar syrup, spread them evenly on parchment paper and let them cool completely before adding them to the dish. This ensures they harden properly and stay crunchy.

5. Toss the Shrimp Gently in the Sauce

To prevent the crispy coating from breaking down too fast, add the sauce right before serving and toss lightly until just coated.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

Want to serve Honey Walnut Shrimp in a new and exciting way? Here are some fun variations:

1. Honey Walnut Shrimp Tacos

Fill warm corn tortillas with crispy shrimp, drizzle with sauce, and top with shredded cabbage and cilantro for a fusion-inspired twist.

2. Honey Walnut Shrimp Salad

Serve the shrimp over a bed of mixed greens, avocado, and mandarin oranges, using the honey-mayo sauce as a dressing for a fresh, vibrant meal.

3. Honey Walnut Shrimp Rice Bowl

Layer steamed jasmine rice, crispy shrimp, and candied walnuts in a bowl, then drizzle with extra sauce for a restaurant-style rice bowl experience.

4. Honey Walnut Shrimp Sushi Roll

Chop the shrimp into bite-sized pieces and roll them into sushi with rice, seaweed, and cucumber, then top with a drizzle of sauce for a creative Japanese-Chinese fusion roll.

Freezing and Storing Honey Walnut Shrimp

Short-Term Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• To reheat, place the shrimp in a hot oven (375°F/190°C) for 5 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it makes the shrimp soggy.

Freezing Instructions

• Freeze the shrimp BEFORE tossing in the sauce for the best results.
• Arrange the fried shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze for 1 hour, then transfer to a zip-top freezer bag.
• Store for up to 2 months.
• When ready to eat, reheat in an air fryer or oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes before tossing in fresh sauce.

Note: Candied walnuts don’t freeze well, so prepare them fresh when serving.

Healthier Twist Ideas

Want to make Honey Walnut Shrimp a little lighter? Try these healthier swaps:

1. Air-Fried Shrimp

Instead of deep-frying, air fry the shrimp at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through. It will still be crispy with less oil.

2. Lighter Sauce

Swap Greek yogurt for some of the mayonnaise to make the sauce creamier with less fat.

3. Less Sugar in the Walnuts

Reduce the sugar in the candied walnuts to ¼ cup for a less sweet version without losing the crunch.

4. Serve Over Cauliflower Rice

For a low-carb option, serve the shrimp over cauliflower rice instead of jasmine rice.

Serving Suggestions for Events

This dish is perfect for special occasions and makes a great crowd-pleaser!

1. Family-Style Chinese Feast

Serve Honey Walnut Shrimp alongside classic dishes like Beef and Broccoli, Chicken Lo Mein, and Egg Fried Rice for a complete Chinese-inspired meal.

2. Elegant Dinner Party Dish

Plate the shrimp on a large white platter, sprinkle with extra candied walnuts and sesame seeds, and serve with a glass of chilled white wine for an elevated, restaurant-style experience.

3. Holiday or Special Occasion Treat

This dish is festive and luxurious, making it a great choice for holidays like Chinese New Year, birthdays, or anniversaries.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make Honey Walnut Shrimp ahead of time?

Yes! Fry the shrimp and make the sauce separately, then combine right before serving to keep everything crispy.

2. What type of shrimp should I use?

Use large or extra-large shrimp (16/20 count) for the best texture and juiciness.

3. Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes! Just make sure to thaw completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.

4. Can I make this dish spicy?

Absolutely! Add ½ teaspoon of sriracha or chili flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.

5. Can I use a different nut instead of walnuts?

Yes! Pecans or almonds work as a great substitute.

6. What can I use instead of condensed milk?

You can use coconut cream or a little extra honey for a dairy-free alternative.

7. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Just use gluten-free soy sauce and ensure all ingredients are gluten-free.

8. How do I prevent the sauce from making the shrimp soggy?

Toss the shrimp in the sauce right before serving, and avoid using too much sauce.

9. Can I use chicken instead of shrimp?

Yes! Substitute chicken breast cut into small pieces, and follow the same frying and coating process.

10. What’s the best side dish for Honey Walnut Shrimp?

Steamed jasmine rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a light Asian cucumber salad pair beautifully!

Conclusion

Honey Walnut Shrimp is a crispy, creamy, and irresistibly delicious dish that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. Whether you’re cooking it for a special dinner, a family gathering, or just to satisfy a takeout craving, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavors in just 30 minutes.

So grab your skillet, whip up some candied walnuts, and enjoy the sweet, savory, and crunchy goodness of homemade Honey Walnut Shrimp!

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