Honey Walnut Shrimp

Try this honey walnut shrimp recipe for a delicious homemade version of the classic takeout dish. Crispy shrimp, sweet sauce, and candied walnuts make this dish a real treat! It’s the perfect Panda Express copycat recipe, but better!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of cooking, you can enjoy this delightful meal in under an hour.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of crispy shrimp, crunchy walnuts, and a sweet sauce creates a taste sensation that will impress your family and friends.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for dinner parties, family meals, or special occasions. This dish suits any gathering!
• Healthier Alternative: Making honey walnut shrimp at home allows you to control the ingredients and avoid preservatives found in takeout versions.
• Customizable: Adjust sweetness levels or add your favorite vegetables to make it your own.

Tools and Preparation

To create the best honey walnut shrimp, gather your tools before starting. Having everything ready ensures a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wok or large frying pan
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Slotted spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Wok or large frying pan: A spacious surface allows for even frying of the shrimp, ensuring they become crispy.
• Mixing bowls: These are essential for combining ingredients without making a mess.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the perfect balance of flavors in your sauce.
• Slotted spoon or spatula: These tools help you safely lift cooked shrimp from hot oil while allowing excess oil to drain.

Ingredients

Here’s what you need to make this delicious honey walnut shrimp:

For the Shrimp

• 12 large shrimp (size 21/25)
• 1 stalk green onion (finely chopped)
• 1 egg (or egg whites, for crispier batter)
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• ½ cup cornstarch

For the Candied Walnuts

• 1 cup walnuts
• 1 tablespoon oil
• 1¾ tablespoons sugar (or honey)
• ¼ teaspoon salt (optional)

For the Sauce

• ½ tablespoon butter
• ¼ cup mayonnaise (or Japanese kewpie mayo)
• 2 tablespoons sweetened condensed milk (or 1½ tablespoons of honey)
• ¼ teaspoon rice vinegar
• ½ teaspoon soy sauce

How to Make Honey Walnut Shrimp

Step 1: Prepare the Walnuts

1. In a pan over medium heat, add the oil.
2. Once hot, add the walnuts and sugar (or honey).
3. Stir frequently until the walnuts are golden brown and coated in caramelized sugar.
4. Remove from heat and set aside on parchment paper to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp

1. In a mixing bowl, combine egg, onion powder, soy sauce, and cornstarch until well mixed.
2. Add the shrimp to the mixture and coat evenly.

Step 3: Fry the Shrimp

1. Heat oil in a wok or large frying pan over medium-high heat.
2. Carefully add coated shrimp in batches; do not overcrowd.
3. Fry until golden brown and crispy on both sides—about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

1. In another mixing bowl, combine butter, mayonnaise (or kewpie mayo), sweetened condensed milk (or honey), rice vinegar, and soy sauce.
2. Mix until smooth.

Step 5: Combine Everything

1. In a large serving bowl, toss fried shrimp with the sauce until evenly coated.
2. Top with candied walnuts and chopped green onions before serving.

Enjoy your homemade honey walnut shrimp!

How to Serve Honey Walnut Shrimp

Honey walnut shrimp is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a family meal, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

Over Steamed Rice

• This classic pairing allows the sweet and savory flavors of the shrimp to soak into the rice, creating a satisfying meal.

With Fried Rice

• Serve honey walnut shrimp alongside fried rice for a complete Chinese-inspired feast. The textures complement each other beautifully.

On a Bed of Greens

• For a lighter option, serve the shrimp on a bed of mixed greens. Drizzle with extra sauce for added flavor.

As an Appetizer

• Present honey walnut shrimp in small portions as an appetizer at your next gathering. Guests will love this tasty bite!

With Noodles

• Pair the dish with lo mein or chow mein noodles for a hearty meal that combines flavors and textures.

In Lettuce Wraps

• For a fun twist, use lettuce leaves to wrap the shrimp and enjoy them as fresh, crunchy bites!

How to Perfect Honey Walnut Shrimp

To create the best honey walnut shrimp, follow these helpful tips for perfecting your dish every time.

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  Use fresh shrimp: Freshly sourced shrimp enhances the overall taste and texture of the dish. Look for firm, translucent shrimp without an off smell.

  
  
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  Don’t skip the cornstarch: Coating the shrimp in cornstarch before frying gives them that signature crispy texture that everyone loves.

  
  
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  Control oil temperature: Ensure your oil is hot enough before adding shrimp. This prevents sogginess and ensures even cooking.

  
  
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  Customize sweetness: Adjust the amount of sugar or honey in the sauce to suit your taste preferences. A little experimentation can yield delightful results.

  
  
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  Garnish wisely: Add extra chopped green onions or sesame seeds on top before serving for added flavor and visual appeal.

  
  
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  Serve immediately: Honey walnut shrimp is best enjoyed fresh and hot. Serve it right after cooking for maximum crunch!

  
  

Best Side Dishes for Honey Walnut Shrimp

Pairing side dishes with honey walnut shrimp can enhance your meal experience. Here are some delicious options to consider:

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   Fried Rice: A flavorful mix of vegetables and proteins complements the sweetness of the shrimp perfectly.

   
   
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   Egg Rolls: Crispy egg rolls filled with vegetables provide a crunchy contrast to the tender shrimp.

   
   
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   Steamed Broccoli: The mild flavor and bright color add nutrition and balance to your plate.

   
   
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   Sesame Noodles: These tangy noodles offer a delightful sesame flavor that pairs well with honey walnut shrimp.

   
   
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   Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad can cleanse your palate between bites of rich and sweet shrimp.

   
   
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   Miso Soup: This warm soup adds comfort and depth to your meal while keeping it light and healthy.

   
   
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   Stir-Fried Vegetables: Colorful stir-fried veggies will add crunch and freshness to counterbalance the sweetness of the dish.

   
   
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   Sweet & Sour Sauce: A side of sweet and sour sauce can be served for those who love an extra kick with their honey walnut shrimp.

   
   

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making honey walnut shrimp, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes and tips to avoid them.

• Using the wrong shrimp size: Selecting shrimp that are too small can lead to overcooking. Always choose large shrimp (size 21/25) for better texture and flavor.
• Neglecting the batter: A thin or uneven batter will result in soggy shrimp. Ensure your batter is well-mixed and coats the shrimp evenly for a crispy finish.
• Skipping candied walnuts: The sweetness of candied walnuts is essential in this dish. Don’t skip this step; it adds vital flavor and texture.
• Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly, so keep an eye on them. Overcooked shrimp turn rubbery; aim for a light golden color.
• Incorrect sauce balance: Too much mayonnaise can overpower the dish. Adjust the sauce ingredients carefully to achieve a balanced flavor profile.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store honey walnut shrimp in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 2 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Honey Walnut Shrimp

• For best results, freeze before frying. Place uncooked shrimp in a freezer-safe bag.
• Frozen honey walnut shrimp can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Honey Walnut Shrimp

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Use medium heat for short intervals, checking frequently. This method may make the shrimp less crispy.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet on medium-low heat, adding a splash of water to help steam them back to life without drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Honey Walnut Shrimp?

Honey walnut shrimp is a popular Chinese-American dish featuring crispy shrimp coated in a creamy sauce with candied walnuts.

How do I make Honey Walnut Shrimp healthier?

You can use egg whites instead of whole eggs for the batter and reduce the amount of sugar or use natural sweeteners like honey.

Can I make Honey Walnut Shrimp ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the components separately and combine them just before serving to ensure freshness and crispiness.

What can I serve with Honey Walnut Shrimp?

This dish pairs well with steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables, adding balance and variety to your meal.

Final Thoughts

Honey walnut shrimp is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding more vegetables or adjusting the sweetness. This recipe brings comforting flavors right to your kitchen, perfect for any occasion!

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