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!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The sweet and savory blend of honey and walnuts perfectly complements the crispy shrimp, creating a dish that tantalizes the taste buds.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it a perfect option for a weeknight dinner or a last-minute gathering.
- Healthier Alternative: By making this dish at home, you can control the ingredients, ensuring a fresher and healthier meal compared to takeout.
- Impressive Presentation: The beautiful plating with candied walnuts and green onions makes this dish a showstopper at any dinner table.
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.
Pro Tips
- Perfectly Crispy Shrimp: Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying the shrimp. A temperature of 350°F ensures a beautiful golden brown and crispy texture.
- Walnut Coating: For the best results, allow the candied walnuts to cool completely on parchment paper to maintain their crunchiness.
- Egg Coating Technique: Ensure each shrimp is fully coated in the egg mixture before dredging in cornstarch for an even and thick crispy layer.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve with a side of steamed jasmine rice and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an authentic touch to this dish!
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!
