In the hustle and bustle of weeknight dinners, it’s easy to feel like a culinary superhero facing an endless menu of fast food and takeout. That’s where my Quick and Crispy Honey Walnut Shrimp comes in, transforming your kitchen into a vibrant Chinese restaurant in just 20 minutes. The recipe highlights crispy shrimp tossed in a creamy sweet sauce, complemented by delightfully crunchy, honey-glazed walnuts. Not only is this dish a speedy crowd-pleaser, but it also gives you the satisfaction of enjoying a hearty homemade meal without the guilt of takeout. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just seeking a comforting weeknight dish, this recipe is bound to impress. Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with this delightful twist on a classic? Why is Honey Walnut Shrimp a Must-Try? Crispy Perfection: The shrimp gets that golden-brown crunch that elevates the whole dish, making it an instant favorite for seafood lovers. Sweet & Creamy Sauce: A luscious blend of mayonnaise and sweetened condensed milk creates a sauce that perfectly balances the crispy shrimp. Quick to Prepare: Finished in just 20 minutes, this recipe is a lifesaver on busy weeknights, breaking the routine of fast food and takeout. Versatile Delight: Serve it alongside steamed rice or a fresh salad for a satisfying meal. You can even swap in different nuts or proteins to mix things up! Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: Ideal for impressing guests or savoring a comforting dinner at home, this dish offers the warmth of homemade cuisine with restaurant-level taste. For a touch of sweetness, pair it with my Honey Cookies Chewy or if you’re in the mood for seafood, check out my Cajun Pasta Shrimp! Honey Walnut Shrimp Ingredients For the Shrimp • Shrimp – Main protein; use peeled, deveined, and butterflied shrimp for hassle-free cooking. • Egg White – Acts as a binding agent for the coating; substitute with aquafaba for a vegan option. For the Coating • Potato Starch – Gives that crispy texture you crave; can be replaced with tapioca starch or cornstarch. For the Candied Walnuts • Walnuts – Adds the perfect crunch and sweetness; can swap for pecans or almonds if preferred. • Honey – Sweetens the walnuts beautifully; feel free to use maple syrup or agave for a different twist. • Butter – Enhances the flavor of the walnuts; coconut oil is a great dairy-free substitute. For the Sauce • Mayonnaise – Creates a decadent creamy sauce; Kewpie mayo is a delicious option for added flavor. • Sweetened Condensed Milk – Adds that rich sweetness to the sauce; you can also use coconut condensed milk. • Lemon Juice – Balances the flavors with acidity; lime juice or vinegar works well as a substitute. For Frying • Neutral Oil – Ideal for frying, with avocado oil, canola oil, or grapeseed oil being great choices. This Honey Walnut Shrimp dish is not just quick and easy; it encapsulates the heart of homemade Chinese cuisine! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Honey Walnut Shrimp Step 1: Prep Shrimp Begin by marinating the shrimp in a bowl with a pinch of salt, a dash of white pepper, and one egg white for about 15 minutes. This will enhance the shrimp’s flavor and help the coating adhere. Meanwhile, get a baking sheet ready to hold the shrimp once they’re marinated. Step 2: Make Candied Walnuts In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Stir in 2 tablespoons of honey and 1 tablespoon of water, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. After about 2 minutes, add 1 cup of walnuts and stir to coat. Cook for another 2 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly, then transfer the walnuts to a plate to cool. Step 3: Coat Shrimp In a shallow dish, combine ½ cup of potato starch with a pinch of salt and white pepper. Dredge each marinated shrimp in the potato starch mixture, ensuring an even coat. This step is key to achieving that wonderful crispiness in your Honey Walnut Shrimp, so take your time to coat each piece well. Step 4: Make Sauce In a large bowl, whisk together ½ cup of mayonnaise, ¼ cup of sweetened condensed milk, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This delicious sauce is what will tie all the flavors together, so taste and adjust the sweetness if desired, setting it aside for later. Step 5: Fry Shrimp In a large skillet, heat enough neutral oil to cover the bottom over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the coated shrimp in batches, frying for about 3 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the shrimp to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil. Step 6: Serve In a large mixing bowl, gently toss the crispy shrimp with the cooled candied walnuts and creamy sauce until everything is well-coated. Serve your Honey Walnut Shrimp warm, garnished with chopped green onions if desired, and enjoy the delightful balance of flavors! Make Ahead Options These Honey Walnut Shrimp are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the shrimp up to 24 hours in advance—just combine them with salt, white pepper, and egg white, then refrigerate. Additionally, the candied walnuts can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain their crunch. When you’re ready to serve, simply fry the shrimp—the fresh coating will ensure they remain crispy—and prepare the creamy sauce right before tossing everything together. This allows you to enjoy restaurant-style Honey Walnut Shrimp on busy weeknights with minimal effort and maximum flavor! How to Store and Freeze Honey Walnut Shrimp • Room Temperature: Honey Walnut Shrimp is best enjoyed immediately after cooking for optimal crispiness. If necessary, keep it at room temperature for no more than 2 hours. • Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain the shrimp’s texture, separate the sauce from the shrimp and walnuts before refrigerating. • Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the coated but uncooked shrimp. They can be kept in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. When ready to cook, fry them straight from the freezer, allowing an extra minute or two for cooking. • Reheating: To reheat leftover cooked Honey Walnut Shrimp, place them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain crispiness, or reheat in an air fryer for best results. Expert Tips for Honey Walnut Shrimp • Use Frozen Shrimp: Opt for frozen, pre-cleaned shrimp to save time without sacrificing quality. • Fry in Batches: Fry shrimp in small batches to maintain oil temperature, ensuring each piece stays crispy and golden. • Coating Crunch: Coat shrimp just before frying to keep the batter light and crunchy. Avoid letting them sit too long after coating. • Timing is Key: Toss shrimp in the creamy sauce right before serving to prevent the coating from becoming soggy. • Taste Test: Adjust the sweetness of the sauce according to your preference; a little extra honey can make a big difference for flavor! This Honey Walnut Shrimp recipe is a quick, crowd-pleasing option that’s perfect for busy weeknights and special gatherings alike! What to Serve with Honey Walnut Shrimp For a delightful dining experience, pair your meal with complementary sides that will enhance the flavors of this luscious dish. Steamed Jasmine Rice: Its light and fluffy texture acts as the perfect base for soaking up the creamy sauce, providing a classic touch. Crispy Vegetable Spring Rolls: Add a crunchy contrast to your meal with these tasty bites, filled with fresh vegetables and served with a Vietnamese dipping sauce. Asian-style Cucumber Salad: This refreshing salad introduces a crisp element to your plate, balancing the richness of the shrimp with tangy and slightly sweet flavors. Stir-Fried Greens: A medley of bok choy or spinach cooked with garlic adds vibrant color and nutrients, ensuring a well-rounded meal full of health benefits. Mango Chutney: The sweet and tangy flavors of this chutney impart an exciting tropical twist that complements the honeyed elements of the shrimps. Chardonnay or Riesling: A glass of chilled Chardonnay or sweet Riesling beautifully harmonizes with the dish, elevating the flavors while enhancing your culinary adventure. Chocolate Torte: Indulge your sweet tooth with a rich, velvety chocolate torte for dessert, providing a decadent end to a delightful meal. Pairing these selections with your Honey Walnut Shrimp will elevate your dining experience to new heights, bringing together a symphony of flavors and textures to satisfy everyone at the table! Honey Walnut Shrimp Variations Feel free to put your own spin on this delicious recipe and experiment with these tasty options! Nut Alternatives: Swap walnuts for pecans, cashews, or almonds for a different flavor and crunch. Vegan Option: Replace shrimp with crispy tofu or cauliflower for a plant-based twist that still satisfies. Sweetness Adjustments: Add more honey or maple syrup if you prefer a sweeter sauce, creating a delightful glaze. Heat Boost: Toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to spice things up for those who love a kick. Citrus Twist: Instead of lemon juice, use fresh lime juice for a zesty twist that complements the shrimp beautifully. Crispy Fish Alternative: Try using firm fish like cod or tilapia instead of shrimp for a new take on the classic recipe. Extra Creamy Sauce: Mix in some Greek yogurt with the mayonnaise for a tangy flavor and creaminess that elevates the dish. Garnish Ideas: Top with sesame seeds or fresh cilantro for an aromatic finish and added texture to your plate. Remember, this Honey Walnut Shrimp is all about making it your own! Whether you’re craving something sweet or spicy, there’s no wrong way to enjoy this dish. If you’re looking for more inspiration, consider serving it alongside my delightful Cajun Honey Butter Salmon or even an indulgent dessert like Russian Honey Cake for a complete meal experience. Enjoy your culinary adventures! Honey Walnut Shrimp Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right shrimp for Honey Walnut Shrimp? Absolutely! For the best results, look for shrimp that are large, firm, and shiny. Fresh shrimp should have a mild sea-like smell without any strong fishy odor. If you opt for frozen shrimp, ensure they are pre-cleaned and peeled for convenience. I generally recommend using shrimp labeled as “U10” or “16/20,” indicating their size. How should I store leftover Honey Walnut Shrimp? To enjoy your Honey Walnut Shrimp later, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to keep the shrimp and the sauce separated to maintain their textures. You want the shrimp to stay crispy, and the sauce creamy. Can I freeze Honey Walnut Shrimp? For best results, I recommend freezing the coated but uncooked shrimp. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 2 months. When you’re ready, simply fry them straight from the freezer, adding an extra minute to the cooking time. What if my shrimp isn’t crispy enough after frying? Very often, the key to crispiness lies in the frying process. Make sure you’re frying in small batches so that the oil maintains its heat. If you still find the shrimp lacking crunch, try dredging them in a little more potato starch before frying. It’s also best to coat the shrimp just before frying to keep the batter light and crunchy. Is Honey Walnut Shrimp suitable for people with nut allergies? Certainly! If you or your guests have nut allergies, feel free to leave out the walnuts or substitute them with crispy fried onions for that crunch factor. Always check for any other possible allergens in your ingredients, such as mayonnaise or sweetened condensed milk. You can use dairy-free mayo if needed. Can I make Honey Walnut Shrimp in advance? Absolutely! You can prepare the shrimp and the sweet sauce ahead of time. Just fry the shrimp fresh and toss them with the sauce and walnuts right before serving to ensure everything stays crispy and delicious. This makes hosting easier while still impressing your guests! Delicious Honey Walnut Shrimp Ready in 20 Minutes Quick and easy Honey Walnut Shrimp recipe combines crispy shrimp, creamy sauce, and crunchy walnuts for a satisfying meal. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 20 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: ChineseCalories: 300 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Shrimp1 pound Shrimp, peeled and deveined1 large Egg White or aquafaba for vegan optionFor the Coating½ cup Potato Starch or tapioca starch/cornstarchFor the Candied Walnuts1 cup Walnuts or pecans/almonds2 tablespoons Honey or maple syrup/agave2 tablespoons Butter or coconut oil for dairy-freeFor the Sauce½ cup Mayonnaise or Kewpie mayo¼ cup Sweetened Condensed Milk or coconut condensed milk1 tablespoon Lemon Juice or lime juice/vinegarFor Fryingenough Neutral Oil such as avocado, canola, or grapeseed oil Equipment Large mixing bowlShallow dishlarge skilletsmall saucepanbaking sheet Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Honey Walnut ShrimpBegin by marinating the shrimp in a bowl with a pinch of salt, a dash of white pepper, and one egg white for about 15 minutes.In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Stir in 2 tablespoons of honey and 1 tablespoon of water, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add 1 cup of walnuts and stir to coat. Cook for another 2 minutes until thickened, then transfer to a plate to cool.In a shallow dish, combine ½ cup of potato starch with a pinch of salt and white pepper. Dredge each marinated shrimp in the potato starch mixture.In a large bowl, whisk together ½ cup of mayonnaise, ¼ cup of sweetened condensed milk, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice until smooth. Set aside.In a large skillet, heat enough neutral oil to cover the bottom over medium-high heat. Add the coated shrimp in batches, frying for about 3 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.In a large mixing bowl, gently toss the crispy shrimp with the cooled candied walnuts and creamy sauce. Serve warm, garnished with chopped green onions if desired. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 20gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg NotesFor optimal crispiness, enjoy immediately after cooking and fry the shrimp in batches. Adjust sauce sweetness to taste. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
