Irresistible Honey Walnut Shrimp Recipe You Need to Try

Honey Walnut Shrimp has been one of those dishes that instantly transports me back to lively family dinners and the comforting buzz of a bustling kitchen. There’s something about the delicate crunch of the shrimp, paired with that glossy, honeyed walnut glaze, that just feels like a celebration on a plate. Growing up in southern England, sweet and savory combinations were a bit of a novelty, so this recipe always felt a little adventurous to me. Now, living in sunny San Diego and juggling life with my two little ones, I love how this dish comes together quickly yet feels special enough to share with guests or enjoy as a treat on a busy weeknight.

Why You’ll Love This Honey Walnut Shrimp

This Honey Walnut Shrimp recipe stands out because it perfectly balances texture and flavor. The shrimp has a light, crispy coating that contrasts beautifully with the sticky, sweet honey walnut sauce. From my days in professional kitchens, I learned that nailing the crispiness without over-frying is key, and this recipe does just that. Plus, the candied walnuts add an unexpected crunch that feels indulgent but not overwhelming. It’s also a dish that brings my family together—my kids love the dipping aspect, and I love that it’s approachable enough for busy nights but impressive enough for guests.

Ingredients You’ll Need for This Honey Walnut Shrimp

this RECIPE

The key to this dish lies in selecting the right ingredients, especially fresh shrimp and good-quality walnuts. I always opt for wild-caught shrimp when I can find them, peeled and deveined for convenience. For the sauce, balancing sweetness with a hint of creaminess is essential, and I’ve found that using a light mayonnaise avoids overpowering the honey. If you’re looking to tweak the recipe, lightly toasted pecans can substitute for walnuts, and you can swap honey for maple syrup for a different but equally delicious twist.

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 cup walnut halves
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
• 1 large egg white
• Vegetable oil for frying
• 1/3 cup mayonnaise (preferably light)
• 3 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon sweetened condensed milk
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: Approximately 400 per serving
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 14g
• Sodium: 520mg

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Steps to Create Your Honey Walnut Shrimp

1. Begin by candying your walnuts. In a small saucepan, combine 1/4 cup sugar with 2 tablespoons water over medium heat. Stir until sugar dissolves and mixture bubbles. Add walnuts and stir to coat. Transfer walnuts to parchment paper and let cool completely.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, salt, and white pepper. Stir in the egg white until batter is smooth.
3. Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or wok to 350°F (175°C). While the oil heats, toss shrimp in batter until fully coated.
4. Carefully fry shrimp in batches, avoiding overcrowding, for about 2-3 minutes or until golden and crisp. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, honey, sweetened condensed milk, and lemon juice to create the sauce.
6. Gently fold the fried shrimp and candied walnuts into the sauce, ensuring everything is lightly coated.
7. Serve immediately while shrimp are still crisp, ideally on a bed of steamed rice or lightly dressed greens.

Tips for Making the Best Honey Walnut Shrimp

Getting this dish just right requires a bit of care, but it’s totally worth it. I remember early on trying to rush the frying process and ending up with soggy shrimp—definitely not the goal! Here are my top tips to help you avoid common pitfalls and impress at your table:

• Use fresh or properly thawed shrimp for the best texture and flavor
• Maintain the oil temperature around 350°F; too low and your shrimp absorb oil, too high and the coating burns
• Don’t overcrowd the pan—fry shrimp in small batches for even cooking and crispiness
• Candy the walnuts first to add that addictive crunch and a subtle caramel flavor
• Mix the sauce gently to keep the shrimp crisp and avoid sogginess

With these tips, you’ll create a restaurant-quality dish every time. Learn more: related recipe Learn more: Irresistible Honey Pepper Beef Mac and Cheese Recipe You Need to Try

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This dish is incredibly versatile and works beautifully for various occasions, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a weekend gathering with friends. I often serve this Honey Walnut Shrimp over fluffy jasmine rice or alongside a simple green salad to cut through the richness. On busier days, I’ll toss it with some lightly steamed broccoli or snap peas for a colorful, vibrant plate.

• Pair with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a sparkling water with lemon
• Serve alongside a fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance sweetness
• Complement with steamed jasmine or basmati rice
• Add roasted or sautéed seasonal veggies, such as asparagus or snap peas

Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or entertaining friends, this dish never fails to impress and brings a bit of joyful indulgence to the table.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Proper storage ensures you can enjoy leftovers just as much as the fresh dish. Shrimp can lose their crispness quickly, so a few careful steps are key.

• Store leftover shrimp and walnuts separately from the sauce in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days
• Reheat shrimp gently in a hot, dry skillet for 1-2 minutes to restore some crispness
• Warm the sauce separately and toss the shrimp in just before serving to avoid sogginess
• This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be prepped ahead by candying walnuts and making the sauce in advance

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main ingredients for Honey Walnut Shrimp?

The main ingredients for Honey Walnut Shrimp include the items listed in our ingredients section above. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture.

How long does it take to make Honey Walnut Shrimp?

The total time to make Honey Walnut Shrimp includes both preparation and cooking time. Check the recipe card above for exact timing details.

Can I make Honey Walnut Shrimp ahead of time?

Yes, Honey Walnut Shrimp can often be prepared in advance. Store it properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within the recommended timeframe.

What can I serve with Honey Walnut Shrimp?

Honey Walnut Shrimp pairs well with various sides and accompaniments. Consider the serving suggestions mentioned in the recipe for the best dining experience.

Is Honey Walnut Shrimp suitable for special diets?

Depending on the ingredients used, Honey Walnut Shrimp may be adapted for various dietary needs. Check the ingredients list and consider substitutions as needed for your dietary requirements.

Final Thoughts

Honey Walnut Shrimp is one of those dishes that brings a little sparkle to everyday meals, reminding me why I love cooking so much. It’s a perfect mix of textures and flavors that’s approachable yet feels special. I’d love to hear how you make it your own—please drop a comment or share your tweaks. Happy cooking and welcome to the art of easy, joyful meals!