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

• Easy to Prepare: This honey walnut shrimp recipe is simple, requiring minimal cooking skills. Perfect for beginners!
• Flavor Explosion: Enjoy the delightful contrast of crispy shrimp and sweet, creamy sauce with crunchy walnuts.
• Versatile Dish: Ideal for family dinners, parties, or even meal prep. It suits various occasions effortlessly.
• Healthier Option: Making it at home allows you to control ingredients and reduce unhealthy additives found in takeout.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious honey walnut shrimp recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Deep frying pan or wok
• Slotted spoon
• Cooking thermometer (optional)
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Essential for mixing batter and combining ingredients without spilling.
• Deep frying pan or wok: Provides ample space for frying shrimp evenly and achieving that perfect crispy texture.

Ingredients

Shrimp and Batter

• 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

Walnuts and Sauce

• 1 cup walnuts
• 1 tablespoon oil
• 1¾ tablespoons sugar ((or honey))
• ¼ teaspoon salt ((optional, if you like sweet and salty walnuts))
• ½ tablespoon butter

Creamy Mixture

• 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 small saucepan over medium heat, add the oil and walnuts.
2. Stir frequently until the walnuts are golden brown.
3. Add sugar (or honey) and stir until it melts and coats the walnuts. Remove from heat.

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine egg (or egg whites), onion powder, soy sauce, and cornstarch.
2. Mix well until you have a smooth batter.
3. Dip each shrimp into the batter until fully coated.

Step 3: Fry the Shrimp

1. Heat oil in your deep frying pan or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Once hot (about 350°F), carefully add battered shrimp.
3. Fry until golden brown on both sides, about 2–3 minutes per side.
4. Use a slotted spoon to remove shrimp and let them drain on paper towels.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

1. In a separate bowl, mix together mayonnaise, sweetened condensed milk (or honey), rice vinegar, and additional soy sauce.
2. Stir until well combined.

Step 5: Combine Everything

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

Enjoy your homemade honey walnut shrimp! This dish is sure to impress family and friends alike!

How to Serve Honey Walnut Shrimp

Serving honey walnut shrimp is all about pairing it with the right accompaniments to enhance its flavors. This dish is both sweet and savory, making it a versatile option for various meal settings.

With Steamed Rice

• Steamed white rice or jasmine rice pairs beautifully with honey walnut shrimp. The neutral flavor of rice balances the richness of the shrimp.

On a Bed of Greens

• Serve it over mixed greens or spinach for a light and refreshing meal. The greens add a crunchy texture and freshness.

As an Appetizer

• Use smaller portions to serve as appetizers at parties. Garnish with extra walnuts for an impressive presentation.

With Noodles

• Try serving honey walnut shrimp with lo mein or chow mein. The noodles soak up the delicious sauce, creating a satisfying dish.

In a Wrap

• Create wraps using tortillas or lettuce leaves for a fun, hands-on meal. Add some shredded carrots or cucumber for extra crunch.

How to Perfect Honey Walnut Shrimp

To make sure your honey walnut shrimp turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips:

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  Choose Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp will provide the best flavor and texture. Look for firm, translucent shells when selecting your seafood.

  
  
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  Use Cornstarch Liberally: A generous coating of cornstarch helps achieve that crispy exterior. Make sure each shrimp is well-coated before frying.

  
  
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  Watch Your Frying Temperature: Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding shrimp. This prevents them from becoming greasy and helps them cook evenly.

  
  
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  Make Homemade Sauce: For an extra touch, prepare your own sauce using mayonnaise, honey, and rice vinegar. It adds a fresh twist compared to store-bought options.

  
  

Best Side Dishes for Honey Walnut Shrimp

Complement your honey walnut shrimp with these delightful side dishes that will elevate your meal experience:

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   Fried Rice: A classic pairing that adds texture and flavor. You can customize it with vegetables or proteins of your choice.

   
   
2. 
   

   Spring Rolls: Crisp spring rolls filled with vegetables make for a crunchy contrast to the tender shrimp.

   
   
3. 
   

   Broccoli Stir-Fry: Bright green broccoli stir-fried in garlic complements the sweetness of the shrimp while adding nutrients.

   
   
4. 
   

   Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad provides a cool taste that balances the rich flavors.

   
   
5. 
   

   Egg Drop Soup: Light and comforting, this soup acts as a great starter before diving into the main dish.

   
   
6. 
   

   Sesame Noodles: Tossed in sesame oil and soy sauce, these noodles are flavorful without overpowering the main attraction.

   
   
7. 
   

   Steamed Dumplings: Soft dumplings filled with meat or vegetables add heartiness to your meal while being easy to share.

   
   
8. 
   

   Asian Slaw: A tangy slaw made with cabbage and carrots offers crunchiness and cuts through the sweetness of the dish.

   
   

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making honey walnut shrimp at home can be a delightful experience, but there are common mistakes that can hinder your results. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:

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  Using the wrong shrimp size: Choosing shrimp that are too small or too large can affect the texture. Opt for large shrimp (size 21/25) for the best results.

  
  
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  Skipping the cornstarch: Cornstarch is key for achieving that crispy coating. Don’t skip it or substitute with flour, as this will lead to a soggy texture.

  
  
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  Overcooking the shrimp: Cooking shrimp for too long can make them tough and rubbery. Aim for about 2-3 minutes per side until they are golden brown.

  
  
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  Not preparing the walnuts properly: Candied walnuts should be sweet and crunchy. Make sure to cook them on medium heat and stir frequently to avoid burning.

  
  
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  Ignoring sauce balance: The sauce should be creamy and slightly sweet. Adjust sugar and mayonnaise to your taste, and don’t forget the rice vinegar for acidity!

  
  

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 2-3 days for best quality.
• Keep the sauce separate if possible to maintain crispiness.

Freezing Honey Walnut Shrimp

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag.
• Best used within 1-2 months.
• Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Honey Walnut Shrimp

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  Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place shrimp on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes until crispy.

  
  
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  Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish. Heat on low power in short intervals, checking often, as this may make shrimp chewy.

  
  
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  Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a little oil and sauté until warmed through, ensuring they stay crispy.

  
  

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making honey walnut shrimp at home:

What is Honey Walnut Shrimp?

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

How do I make Honey Walnut Shrimp without condensed milk?

You can substitute sweetened condensed milk with more honey or use heavy cream mixed with sugar for sweetness. Adjust according to your preference!

Can I make Honey Walnut Shrimp ahead of time?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the components in advance and assemble just before serving for optimal freshness.

What are some variations of Honey Walnut Shrimp?

Try adding vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for extra nutrition, or substitute cashews for walnuts if you prefer a different nutty flavor.

Final Thoughts

This honey walnut shrimp recipe is not only easy to follow but also incredibly satisfying. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re serving guests or enjoying it as a comforting meal at home. Feel free to customize with your favorite nuts or adjust the sweetness level to suit your taste preferences!

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