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 for any occasion, from family dinners to special celebrations.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a flavorful dish ready in about 35 minutes.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of crispy shrimp and sweet, creamy sauce is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for serving as an appetizer or a main course, honey walnut shrimp fits any dining situation.
• Healthier Option: This homemade version allows you to control ingredients and make it healthier than takeout.
• Crowd-Pleaser: It’s loved by kids and adults alike, making it a great choice for gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here are the essential tools you need to whip up your honey walnut shrimp.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Skillet or frying pan
• Whisk
• Slotted spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Ideal for combining ingredients without spilling.
• Skillet or frying pan: Necessary for frying the shrimp to achieve that perfect crispiness.
• Whisk: Helps mix the batter smoothly for even coating on the shrimp.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp

• 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

For the Coating

• ½ cup cornstarch

For the Walnuts

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

For the Sauce

• ½ tablespoon butter
• 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 skillet over medium heat, add the oil.
2. Once hot, add walnuts and sugar (or honey).
3. Stir frequently until they are golden brown and caramelized.
4. Remove them from heat and set aside to cool.

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 smooth.
3. Add shrimp to the mixture, coating each piece evenly.

Step 3: Fry the Shrimp

1. Heat oil in your skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Once hot, add coated shrimp in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan.
3. Fry until golden brown on both sides (about 2-3 minutes per side).
4. Remove cooked shrimp with slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

1. In another mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise (or kewpie mayo), sweetened condensed milk (or honey), rice vinegar, and soy sauce until well combined.

Step 5: Combine Everything

1. In a serving dish, toss fried shrimp with prepared sauce until well coated.
2. Sprinkle candied walnuts on top before serving.

Now you have a delightful honey walnut shrimp that’s sure to impress! Enjoy this easy recipe at home anytime you crave that classic Chinese takeout flavor!

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 can be enjoyed in various ways, making it perfect for any occasion.

With Steamed Rice

• Steamed jasmine or basmati rice perfectly complements the sweet and savory notes of honey walnut shrimp.

On a Bed of Greens

• Serve the shrimp atop a fresh salad for a light and healthy meal. A mix of arugula, spinach, and sliced cucumbers works well.

As an Appetizer

• Present smaller portions as an appetizer for parties. This bite-sized option allows guests to enjoy the dish without filling up too quickly.

With Noodles

• Toss the honey walnut shrimp with lo mein or rice noodles for a heartier meal. The noodles soak up the delicious sauce.

In Lettuce Wraps

• For a fun twist, serve the shrimp in crispy lettuce cups. Add some chopped peanuts and cilantro for extra crunch and flavor.

How to Perfect Honey Walnut Shrimp

To achieve the best honey walnut shrimp, keep these tips in mind:

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  Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp enhances flavor and texture; choose large shrimp for better results.

  
  
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  Make the Sauce Ahead: Preparing your sauce in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully before serving.

  
  
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  Heat Oil Properly: Ensure your oil reaches the right temperature before frying. This helps achieve that perfect crispiness.

  
  
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  Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Frying too many shrimp at once lowers the oil temperature, leading to soggy results. Fry in batches instead.

  
  
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  Add Walnuts Last: To keep walnuts crunchy, stir them in just before serving to prevent sogginess from the sauce.

  
  

Best Side Dishes for Honey Walnut Shrimp

Honey walnut shrimp pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes that balance its sweetness. Here are some great options to consider:

1. 
   

   Fried Rice: A classic choice that brings together vegetables and eggs with savory flavors complementary to sweet shrimp.

   
   
2. 
   

   Vegetable Stir-Fry: Quickly cooked vegetables add crunch and color, creating a balanced plate alongside honey walnut shrimp.

   
   
3. 
   

   Egg Rolls: These crispy bites filled with vegetables or meat make for an excellent appetizer or side dish that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the shrimp.

   
   
4. 
   

   Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup can cleanse your palate while adding depth to your meal’s experience.

   
   
5. 
   

   Sesame Noodles: Cold sesame noodles provide a refreshing contrast, perfect for those who enjoy chilled dishes.

   
   
6. 
   

   Cucumber Salad: A simple salad made with thinly sliced cucumbers dressed in rice vinegar gives a refreshing crunch against fried dishes.

   
   
7. 
   

   Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds nutrients and a vibrant green color that brightens up your plate.

   
   
8. 
   

   Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed quinoa salad mixed with herbs and lemon adds wholesome goodness while complementing the flavors of honey walnut shrimp.

   
   

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making honey walnut shrimp can be simple, but there are common pitfalls that can affect the outcome. Here are some mistakes to watch for:

• Using the wrong shrimp size: Opt for large shrimp (size 21/25) for the best texture. Smaller shrimp may overcook and lose their bite.
• Skipping the cornstarch: Cornstarch is key for a crispy coating. Don’t skip this ingredient if you want that perfect crunch!
• Overcooking the shrimp: Keep an eye on cooking time; shrimp cook quickly! Overcooked shrimp become rubbery and tough, ruining your dish.
• Not balancing flavors: The sauce should be sweet with a hint of saltiness. Adjust sugar and salt levels to suit your taste preference.
• Ignoring the candied walnuts: Make sure to properly candy the walnuts. This adds a crucial crunch and sweetness that complements the dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover honey walnut shrimp in an airtight container.
• It can last in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Honey Walnut Shrimp

• Freeze in a single layer before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months, but quality may decline over time.

Reheating Honey Walnut Shrimp

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Spread shrimp on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes until warm and crispy.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate. Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds until warmed through; avoid overcooking!
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat with a little oil. Stir often until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making honey walnut shrimp that many home cooks have:

What is Honey Walnut Shrimp?

Honey Walnut Shrimp is a popular Chinese-American dish featuring crispy shrimp coated in a sweet sauce topped with candied walnuts.

How do I make Honey Walnut Shrimp without condensed milk?

You can substitute sweetened condensed milk with honey or adjust the sugar levels in your sauce for sweetness without dairy.

Can I use frozen shrimp for Honey Walnut Shrimp?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just ensure they are fully thawed before cooking for even frying.

What’s the best way to serve Honey Walnut Shrimp?

Serve it hot over steamed rice or alongside stir-fried vegetables for a delicious meal.

Final Thoughts

This honey walnut shrimp recipe is not only delightful but also versatile! You can customize it by adding vegetables or adjusting sweetness levels to fit your taste. It’s perfect for any occasion—give it a try!

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