Honey Walnut Shrimp Better Than Takeout Delight

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Do you love Honey Walnut Shrimp but hate takeout prices? You’re in luck! In this guide, I’ll cover how to make this delicious dish right in your kitchen. With easy steps, fresh ingredients, and helpful tips, you can create Honey Walnut Shrimp that’s even better than your favorite restaurant. Let’s get started on a dish that will impress your family and friends while keeping your wallet happy!

Ingredients

List of Required Ingredients

  • Shrimp
  • Walnuts
  • Sauce Ingredients
  • Mayonnaise
  • Honey
  • Lemon juice
  • Garlic powder
  • Salt
  • Black pepper
  • Coating Ingredients
  • Cornstarch
  • Egg
  • Vegetable Oil for Frying

To create Honey Walnut Shrimp, you need fresh, high-quality ingredients. Start with 1 pound of shrimp that is peeled and deveined. This will ensure a tender and juicy bite. Next, grab 1 cup of walnuts for that delightful crunch and nutty flavor.

For the sauce, you will mix 1/2 cup of mayonnaise with 1/4 cup of honey. The honey adds sweetness and that signature glaze. You’ll also need 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, which brightens the dish. Add 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper for flavor.

To coat the shrimp, gather 1/4 cup of cornstarch and 1 beaten egg. This will help create a crispy outer layer. Lastly, you need vegetable oil for frying. It’s essential to heat it to the right temperature for the best results.

With these ingredients, you will create a dish that rivals your favorite takeout. Each bite will be sweet, crunchy, and full of flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation of Walnuts

  • Boiling and rinsing: Start by bringing water to a boil. Add the walnuts and boil for 2-3 minutes. Drain the walnuts and rinse them under cold water. This helps remove bitterness.
  • Making the sticky coating: In the same pot, mix 1/4 cup sugar and 1/4 cup water. Simmer this mixture until it thickens slightly. Add the walnuts and stir until they are well-coated. Cook on low for 5 minutes.
  • Cooling the walnuts: Spread the coated walnuts on parchment paper. Let them cool completely. This makes them crunchy and sweet.

Making the Sauce

  • Mixing the ingredients: In a bowl, combine 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1/4 cup honey, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
  • Achieving the right consistency: Stir the mixture until it is smooth and creamy. Set this sauce aside to let the flavors blend.

Coating the Shrimp

  • Preparing the cornstarch and egg mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup cornstarch and 1 beaten egg. This will help the shrimp get crispy.
  • Ensuring even coating: Dip each shrimp into the egg mixture first, then coat them with cornstarch. Make sure the shrimp are fully covered for a nice crunch.

Frying the Shrimp

  • Heating the oil: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Aim for a temperature around 350°F for best results.
  • Frying techniques: Carefully add the shrimp in batches. Fry them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown.
  • Checking for doneness: Ensure the shrimp are crispy and cooked through. They should be pink and firm to the touch.

Combining and Serving

  • Tossing shrimp with sauce: In a large mixing bowl, add the fried shrimp. Pour the honey sauce over them and toss gently until each shrimp is coated.
  • Garnishing suggestions: Place the shrimp on a platter. Sprinkle the candied walnuts on top. For a pop of color, add chopped green onions as a garnish.

Tips & Tricks

Achieving the Best Flavor and Texture

  • Perfect frying temperature: Heat your oil to about 350°F. This helps the shrimp cook fast and stay crispy. If the oil is too cool, the shrimp will soak up oil and become greasy. If it’s too hot, they can burn before cooking fully.
  • Using fresh ingredients: Fresh shrimp make a big difference in taste. Always choose shrimp that smell like the sea, not fishy. Fresh walnuts also add a nice crunch and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

  • Ideal side dishes: Serve your honey walnut shrimp with fluffy white rice. It balances the sweet sauce and adds texture. You can also pair it with steamed broccoli or snap peas for a pop of color and nutrition.
  • Presentation ideas: For a stunning look, use a large white platter. Arrange the shrimp in a circular pattern. Sprinkle extra green onions and candied walnuts on top. This makes it eye-catching and appetizing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Overcooking the shrimp: Keep an eye on the shrimp while frying. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes per side. Overcooked shrimp become tough and rubbery.
  • Not properly coating the shrimp: Make sure each shrimp is fully coated in the cornstarch and egg mixture. This gives the shrimp a nice crunch and helps the sauce stick well.

Variations

Healthier Options

To make honey walnut shrimp lighter, you can swap out the mayonnaise. Use Greek yogurt instead. It adds creaminess and cuts calories. You can also try avocado or cashew cream for a dairy-free option.

For sweeteners, consider using agave syrup or maple syrup. They can give you a unique taste. You can also use a sugar substitute like stevia for fewer calories.

Flavor Enhancements

Adding spices can elevate your dish. Try a pinch of cayenne for heat or paprika for smokiness. Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can also brighten the flavor.

You can mix in vegetables for added nutrition. Bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli work well. Just sauté them lightly before adding to the shrimp.

Dietary Adjustments

If you need a gluten-free version, ensure your cornstarch is certified gluten-free. You can also use rice flour as a coating. It creates a nice crunch without gluten.

For vegan options, replace shrimp with crispy tofu or tempeh. Both provide great texture and soak up flavors nicely. Use vegan mayo for the sauce to keep it plant-based.

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

To keep your honey walnut shrimp fresh, follow these tips:

  • Refrigeration: Place leftovers in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 2 days. The shrimp may lose some crispiness, but they will still taste great.
  • Freezing: You can freeze the shrimp for longer storage. Use a freezer-safe container or bag. They can stay frozen for about 1 month. Keep in mind, freezing may change the texture.

Reheating Techniques

To enjoy your honey walnut shrimp again, reheating is key.

  • Keeping shrimp crispy: To keep the shrimp crispy, heat them in the oven. Set it to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes. This helps restore their crunch.
  • Sauce reheating guidelines: Reheat the sauce gently. Use a small pot over low heat. Stir often to prevent it from burning. If it thickens too much, add a little water to loosen it up.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them first. Place them in cold water for about 15 minutes. This helps them cook evenly.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

To thicken the sauce, add more mayonnaise. You can also mix in a bit of cornstarch. Dissolve the cornstarch in water first for best results.

Is it possible to bake the shrimp instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake the shrimp. Coat them as usual, then place on a baking sheet. Bake at 400°F for 10-12 minutes. Flip halfway for even cooking.

What can I substitute for walnuts?

If you need a substitute for walnuts, try pecans or cashews. Both add crunch and flavor. You can even use sunflower seeds for a nut-free option.

How do I make this dish less sweet?

To reduce the sweetness, cut back on the honey. You can add a bit more lemon juice to balance the flavors. This keeps it tasty without being overly sweet.

Can I prepare the walnuts in advance?

Yes, you can make the walnuts ahead of time. Store them in an airtight container. They stay fresh for up to a week at room temperature.

This blog post covered how to make a tasty shrimp dish with walnuts and a flavorful sauce. You learned about the main ingredients, preparation steps, and tips to avoid common mistakes. We also explored variations for different diets and discussed storage and reheating techniques.

In summary, cooking can be simple and fun. With the right ingredients and careful steps, you can create a dish everyone will enjoy. Don’t be afraid to try new flavors and adjust recipes to fit your taste. Enjoy your cooking!

- Shrimp - Walnuts - Sauce Ingredients - Mayonnaise - Honey - Lemon juice - Garlic powder - Salt - Black pepper - Coating Ingredients - Cornstarch - Egg - Vegetable Oil for Frying To create Honey Walnut Shrimp, you need fresh, high-quality ingredients. Start with 1 pound of shrimp that is peeled and deveined. This will ensure a tender and juicy bite. Next, grab 1 cup of walnuts for that delightful crunch and nutty flavor. For the sauce, you will mix 1/2 cup of mayonnaise with 1/4 cup of honey. The honey adds sweetness and that signature glaze. You’ll also need 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, which brightens the dish. Add 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper for flavor. To coat the shrimp, gather 1/4 cup of cornstarch and 1 beaten egg. This will help create a crispy outer layer. Lastly, you need vegetable oil for frying. It’s essential to heat it to the right temperature for the best results. With these ingredients, you will create a dish that rivals your favorite takeout. Each bite will be sweet, crunchy, and full of flavor. - Boiling and rinsing: Start by bringing water to a boil. Add the walnuts and boil for 2-3 minutes. Drain the walnuts and rinse them under cold water. This helps remove bitterness. - Making the sticky coating: In the same pot, mix 1/4 cup sugar and 1/4 cup water. Simmer this mixture until it thickens slightly. Add the walnuts and stir until they are well-coated. Cook on low for 5 minutes. - Cooling the walnuts: Spread the coated walnuts on parchment paper. Let them cool completely. This makes them crunchy and sweet. - Mixing the ingredients: In a bowl, combine 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1/4 cup honey, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. - Achieving the right consistency: Stir the mixture until it is smooth and creamy. Set this sauce aside to let the flavors blend. - Preparing the cornstarch and egg mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup cornstarch and 1 beaten egg. This will help the shrimp get crispy. - Ensuring even coating: Dip each shrimp into the egg mixture first, then coat them with cornstarch. Make sure the shrimp are fully covered for a nice crunch. - Heating the oil: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Aim for a temperature around 350°F for best results. - Frying techniques: Carefully add the shrimp in batches. Fry them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown. - Checking for doneness: Ensure the shrimp are crispy and cooked through. They should be pink and firm to the touch. - Tossing shrimp with sauce: In a large mixing bowl, add the fried shrimp. Pour the honey sauce over them and toss gently until each shrimp is coated. - Garnishing suggestions: Place the shrimp on a platter. Sprinkle the candied walnuts on top. For a pop of color, add chopped green onions as a garnish. - Perfect frying temperature: Heat your oil to about 350°F. This helps the shrimp cook fast and stay crispy. If the oil is too cool, the shrimp will soak up oil and become greasy. If it’s too hot, they can burn before cooking fully. - Using fresh ingredients: Fresh shrimp make a big difference in taste. Always choose shrimp that smell like the sea, not fishy. Fresh walnuts also add a nice crunch and flavor. - Ideal side dishes: Serve your honey walnut shrimp with fluffy white rice. It balances the sweet sauce and adds texture. You can also pair it with steamed broccoli or snap peas for a pop of color and nutrition. - Presentation ideas: For a stunning look, use a large white platter. Arrange the shrimp in a circular pattern. Sprinkle extra green onions and candied walnuts on top. This makes it eye-catching and appetizing. - Overcooking the shrimp: Keep an eye on the shrimp while frying. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes per side. Overcooked shrimp become tough and rubbery. - Not properly coating the shrimp: Make sure each shrimp is fully coated in the cornstarch and egg mixture. This gives the shrimp a nice crunch and helps the sauce stick well. {{image_2}} To make honey walnut shrimp lighter, you can swap out the mayonnaise. Use Greek yogurt instead. It adds creaminess and cuts calories. You can also try avocado or cashew cream for a dairy-free option. For sweeteners, consider using agave syrup or maple syrup. They can give you a unique taste. You can also use a sugar substitute like stevia for fewer calories. Adding spices can elevate your dish. Try a pinch of cayenne for heat or paprika for smokiness. Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can also brighten the flavor. You can mix in vegetables for added nutrition. Bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli work well. Just sauté them lightly before adding to the shrimp. If you need a gluten-free version, ensure your cornstarch is certified gluten-free. You can also use rice flour as a coating. It creates a nice crunch without gluten. For vegan options, replace shrimp with crispy tofu or tempeh. Both provide great texture and soak up flavors nicely. Use vegan mayo for the sauce to keep it plant-based. To keep your honey walnut shrimp fresh, follow these tips: - Refrigeration: Place leftovers in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 2 days. The shrimp may lose some crispiness, but they will still taste great. - Freezing: You can freeze the shrimp for longer storage. Use a freezer-safe container or bag. They can stay frozen for about 1 month. Keep in mind, freezing may change the texture. To enjoy your honey walnut shrimp again, reheating is key. - Keeping shrimp crispy: To keep the shrimp crispy, heat them in the oven. Set it to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes. This helps restore their crunch. - Sauce reheating guidelines: Reheat the sauce gently. Use a small pot over low heat. Stir often to prevent it from burning. If it thickens too much, add a little water to loosen it up. Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them first. Place them in cold water for about 15 minutes. This helps them cook evenly. To thicken the sauce, add more mayonnaise. You can also mix in a bit of cornstarch. Dissolve the cornstarch in water first for best results. Yes, you can bake the shrimp. Coat them as usual, then place on a baking sheet. Bake at 400°F for 10-12 minutes. Flip halfway for even cooking. If you need a substitute for walnuts, try pecans or cashews. Both add crunch and flavor. You can even use sunflower seeds for a nut-free option. To reduce the sweetness, cut back on the honey. You can add a bit more lemon juice to balance the flavors. This keeps it tasty without being overly sweet. Yes, you can make the walnuts ahead of time. Store them in an airtight container. They stay fresh for up to a week at room temperature. This blog post covered how to make a tasty shrimp dish with walnuts and a flavorful sauce. You learned about the main ingredients, preparation steps, and tips to avoid common mistakes. We also explored variations for different diets and discussed storage and reheating techniques. In summary, cooking can be simple and fun. With the right ingredients and careful steps, you can create a dish everyone will enjoy. Don't be afraid to try new flavors and adjust recipes to fit your taste. Enjoy your cooking!

Honey Walnut Shrimp Better Than Takeout

Savor the deliciousness of Honey Walnut Shrimp, an irresistible dish that's perfect for any occasion! This easy recipe combines crispy shrimp with a sweet honey sauce and crunchy candied walnuts, creating a flavor explosion in every bite. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a quick and impressive meal for family or guests. Dive into this delightful recipe now and impress your taste buds! Click through to explore the full recipe and make this amazing dish at home!

Ingredients
  

1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined

1 cup walnuts

1/2 cup mayonnaise

1/4 cup honey

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1/4 cup cornstarch

1 egg, beaten

Vegetable oil for frying

2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Walnuts: In a small saucepan, bring water to a boil and add the walnuts. Boil for about 2-3 minutes, then drain and rinse. In the same saucepan, combine 1/4 cup sugar and 1/4 cup water. Simmer until it thickens slightly, then add the walnuts. Cook on low for about 5 minutes until they are coated and sticky. Remove and let cool on parchment paper.

    Make the Sauce: In a bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, honey, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth. Set aside.

      Coat the Shrimp: In another bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and beaten egg. Dip each shrimp into the egg mixture and then coat with cornstarch, ensuring they are fully covered.

        Fry the Shrimp: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot (around 350°F), carefully add the coated shrimp in batches, frying until golden brown and crispy (about 2-3 minutes per side). Remove and drain on paper towels.

          Combine: In a large mixing bowl, toss the fried shrimp with the honey sauce until evenly coated.

            Serve: Plate the shrimp and sprinkle the candied walnuts over the top. Garnish with chopped green onions.

              Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

                - Presentation Tips: Serve on a large platter with extra green onions sprinkled around. Add a side of fluffy white rice for a complete meal!

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