Honey Walnut Shrimp is a classic Chinese-American dish that has won the hearts and taste buds of many with its delightful combination of flavors and textures. This delectable dish features succulent shrimp, glazed in a sweet and creamy honey sauce, and paired with crispy, caramelized walnuts. It’s a harmony of tastes and textures that can be both comforting and luxurious. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the step-by-step process of making Honey Walnut Shrimp at home, allowing you to savor this beloved dish anytime you desire.
Honey walnut shrimp
Honey walnut shrimp is a delicious Chinese-American dish that combines crispy fried shrimp with a sweet and creamy sauce. Here's a recipe for making honey walnut shrimp:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 2 eggs, beaten
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon condensed milk
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 cup canned sweetened condensed milk (for the sauce)
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 cup glazed walnuts (recipe below)
For the Glazed Walnuts:
- 1 cup walnut halves
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup water
Prepare the Glazed Walnuts:
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In a saucepan, combine the sugar and water over medium heat.
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Stir until the sugar dissolves, then add the walnut halves.
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Stir frequently until the sugar syrup begins to crystallize and coat the walnuts.
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Remove the walnuts from the pan and let them cool on a baking sheet. They will harden as they cool.
Fry the Shrimp:
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Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C).
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While the oil is heating, dip each shrimp in beaten egg and then coat with cornstarch.
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Fry the shrimp in batches for about 2-3 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
Make the Sauce:
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In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, honey, condensed milk, lemon juice, sweetened condensed milk, and water. Mix until smooth.
Coat Shrimp with Sauce:
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Place the fried shrimp in a large bowl and pour the sauce over them.
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Gently toss to coat the shrimp evenly with the sauce.
Serve:
Serve the honey walnut shrimp on a plate or platter.
Sprinkle the glazed walnuts over the top.
Tips for Perfect Honey Walnut Shrimp
To achieve the perfect honey walnut shrimp, here are some tips to keep in mind:
Use Fresh Shrimp:
Start with fresh, high-quality shrimp. Large shrimp work best for this dish. Make sure to peel and devein them properly.
Properly Coat and Fry the Shrimp:
Coat the shrimp with cornstarch right before frying. This will create a crispy texture.
Don’t overcrowd the frying pan or fryer. Fry the shrimp in batches to ensure they cook evenly and stay crispy.
Use a thermometer to monitor the oil temperature. The ideal frying temperature is around 350°F (175°C). If the oil is too hot, the shrimp can burn; if it’s too cool, they can become soggy.
Prepare the Glazed Walnuts:
Be patient when making the glazed walnuts. Stir constantly to avoid burning the sugar, and wait until the sugar crystallizes and the walnuts are evenly coated.
Allow the glazed walnuts to cool completely before adding them to the dish.
Make the Sauce Smooth:
When mixing the sauce, ensure that all the ingredients are well combined to achieve a smooth and creamy consistency.
Toss the Shrimp Gently:
When coating the fried shrimp with the sauce, toss them gently to prevent breaking the crispy coating.
Balance the Sweetness:
Adjust the sweetness of the sauce to your preference. If you like it sweeter, you can add a bit more honey. If you prefer it less sweet, reduce the amount of honey.
Maintain the Right Texture:
Try to serve the honey walnut shrimp immediately after tossing in the sauce. If the shrimp sit for too long, they can become less crispy as they absorb the sauce.
FAQs About Making Honey Walnut Shrimp
1. Can I use frozen shrimp for honey walnut shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but it’s best to thaw them properly in the refrigerator before using. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture before coating and frying.
2. What can I use as a substitute for mayonnaise in the sauce?
Greek yogurt or sour cream can be used as a substitute for mayonnaise to make a creamy sauce. However, it will change the flavor slightly.
3. Can I make this dish less sweet?
Yes, you can adjust the sweetness of the sauce by reducing the amount of honey or sweetened condensed milk in the recipe to suit your taste.
4. How can I make the dish spicier?
To add some heat, you can incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the sauce. Adjust the amount to your desired level of spiciness.
5. What are some alternatives to walnuts for this dish?
If you’re allergic to or don’t like walnuts, you can try using other nuts like cashews or pecans. You can also omit the nuts if necessary.
6. Can I use a different type of seafood, like chicken, for this recipe?
Yes, you can use the same coating and sauce with chicken instead of shrimp to make a honey walnut chicken dish.
7. How do I keep the shrimp crispy when serving this dish for a party or potluck?
To maintain the crispiness of the shrimp, you can serve them separately from the sauce and glazed walnuts. Allow guests to dip the shrimp and top them with sauce and walnuts as they serve themselves.
8. How long can I store leftovers of honey walnut shrimp?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Keep in mind that the shrimp may lose some of their crispiness when reheated.
Conclusion
Mastering the art of making Honey Walnut Shrimp is a culinary achievement that allows you to enjoy this delightful dish anytime you crave it. With the right ingredients, techniques, and a little creativity, you can create a restaurant-quality experience in the comfort of your own kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, Honey Walnut Shrimp is sure to be a hit. So, put on your apron and embark on the culinary journey of crafting this beloved Chinese-American classic.