Easy Homemade Honey Walnut Shrimp: Crispy, Sweet & Better Than Takeout
Craving the ultimate blend of sweet, savory, and satisfying crunch? Look no further! This homemade honey walnut shrimp recipe brings your favorite takeout dish right to your kitchen. Imagine perfectly crispy fried shrimp enveloped in a rich, sweet, and creamy sauce, beautifully contrasted with the delightful crunch of candied walnuts. It’s an explosion of textures and flavors that will make you forget all about calling for delivery. Quick, simple, and utterly delicious, this recipe is designed for maximum flavor with minimal fuss, making it the best at-home version you’ll ever taste.
Why This Homemade Honey Walnut Shrimp Recipe Works Wonders
This honey walnut shrimp recipe isn’t just another meal; it’s a culinary triumph you can achieve in your own kitchen! What makes it so incredibly effective and satisfying? For starters, it’s remarkably quick and easy to make, coming together in as little as 20 minutes from start to finish. That’s faster than most delivery times!
The magic lies in the symphony of textures and flavors. Each plump shrimp is meticulously coated in a light, crispy batter before being perfectly fried to golden perfection. This creates an irresistible tender-crisp interior with a satisfying exterior snap. Then, it’s generously enrobed in a luscious, sweet, mayo-based sauce that delivers a perfect balance of creaminess and tang. But the real showstopper? The candied walnuts! These little nuggets of joy provide an essential nutty crunch, cutting through the richness of the sauce and the softness of the shrimp, elevating every bite into a delightful experience. You get that coveted sweet and savory dynamic, coupled with varying textures that keep your palate engaged. It truly transforms a simple weeknight dinner into a gourmet experience that rivals (and often surpasses) your favorite Chinese takeout joint.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Honey Walnut Shrimp
Crafting exceptional honey walnut shrimp starts with selecting the right ingredients. While the full list with precise measurements and detailed instructions can be found in the printable recipe card at the end of this post, here’s a sneak peek at the star players and why they matter. Fresh, quality ingredients are key to achieving that authentic, irresistible flavor.
Ingredient Spotlight: Tips & Substitutions
Shrimp Selection and Preparation
SHRIMP – For this recipe, we recommend using 1 pound of large uncooked shrimp. Ensure they are deveined, peeled, and have had their tails removed for easier eating. While large shrimp provide a satisfying bite, you can certainly use any size of shrimp you prefer. Just remember that the cooking time will vary depending on the size. Smaller shrimp will cook faster, while jumbo shrimp will require a little more time in the pan.
A crucial aspect of cooking shrimp is to avoid overcooking, which can lead to a rubbery texture. Shrimp is perfectly cooked when it turns opaque and white with bright pink edges. When dredged in batter, it can be slightly harder to visually confirm doneness, so rely on the clock: aim for approximately 2-3 minutes of frying on each side for most large shrimp. This timing helps ensure juicy, tender shrimp every time.
Fresh vs. Frozen: Both fresh and high-quality frozen shrimp work wonderfully. If using frozen shrimp, thaw them completely in the refrigerator overnight or under cold running water for a quicker thaw. Pat them very dry with paper towels before battering; excess moisture can lead to a soggy crust.
Frying Oil Choices
OIL – The choice of oil for frying is important for achieving that desirable crispy texture and flavor. You have several excellent options:
- Olive Oil: A good all-purpose option, though a lighter olive oil is preferred to avoid an overpowering flavor.
- Canola Oil: A neutral-flavored oil with a high smoke point, ideal for frying.
- Vegetable Oil: Similar to canola, it’s a versatile, neutral-flavored oil that works well.
- Peanut Oil: Often favored in Asian cuisine for its slightly nutty flavor and high smoke point, which contributes to a very crispy crust. If you don’t have a peanut allergy, this is an excellent choice for authentic flavor.
Ensure you use enough oil to generously coat the bottom of your skillet, allowing the shrimp to fry evenly without crowding the pan.
The Sweetness: Honey and Condensed Milk
HONEY – As one of the main stars of this dish, lending its name and signature sweetness, honey is highly recommended. It provides a unique floral sweetness and sticky texture that is central to the sauce. While maple syrup can be used in a pinch, be aware that it will impart a distinct maple flavor that alters the traditional taste profile of honey walnut shrimp. If possible, stick with good quality honey for the most authentic experience.
SWEETENED CONDENSED MILK – This ingredient is crucial for the sauce’s characteristic creamy texture and rich sweetness. It contributes to the sauce’s body and helps create that luscious coating. There isn’t a direct substitute that will yield the exact same results in terms of sweetness and consistency, so it’s best to include it as specified.
Walnuts and Flavor Balance
WALNUTS – The walnuts are not just for garnish; they’re integral to the dish’s texture and flavor balance. Their natural bitterness and earthy notes are transformed by the candying process into a sweet, crunchy delight that perfectly complements the shrimp and sauce. When buying walnuts, look for fresh, unblemished halves or pieces.
RED PEPPER FLAKES – Don’t skip these! A small amount of red pepper flakes adds a subtle hint of warmth and a touch of excitement, perfectly cutting through the sweetness of the honey and condensed milk. It provides a balanced flavor profile without making the dish overtly spicy. Adjust the amount to your personal heat preference, or omit if you are very sensitive to spice.
For the Crispy Coating
ALL-PURPOSE FLOUR & EGG – These two simple ingredients form the foundation of our crispy shrimp batter. The egg helps the flour adhere to the shrimp, and together they create a light coating that fries up beautifully golden and crunchy. Using all-purpose flour is standard, but a mix with a little cornstarch can also enhance crispiness.
How to Make Honey Walnut Shrimp: Step-by-Step Guide
These step-by-step photos and instructions are here to help you visualize how to make this recipe a resounding success. For a convenient printable version of this recipe, complete with precise measurements and full instructions, you can Jump to Recipe at the bottom of this post.
- Prepare the Candied Walnuts: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine water and granulated sugar. Bring this mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, add the walnuts.
- Cook and Dry Walnuts: Stir the walnuts and allow them to boil in the sugar syrup for exactly 2 minutes. This brief boil helps the sugar adhere to the walnuts for candying. After boiling, drain the walnuts thoroughly and pat them very dry with paper towels. Set them aside on a clean surface or plate to cool and firm up.
- Prepare Shrimp Batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together the large egg and all-purpose flour until well combined. This will create a smooth batter for dipping the shrimp.
- Heat Frying Oil: Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil (or your preferred frying oil) in a skillet over medium-high heat. Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding shrimp to achieve maximum crispiness.
- Fry the Shrimp: Dip each peeled, deveined, and tail-removed shrimp into the prepared egg and flour batter, ensuring it’s fully coated. Carefully place the battered shrimp into the hot skillet, being mindful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the shrimp for approximately 2 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through. Once cooked, drain the shrimp on paper towels to remove excess oil. Set aside.
- Make the Creamy Honey Sauce: In a separate medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, honey, red pepper flakes, and sweetened condensed milk. Whisk thoroughly until the sauce is smooth and all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Combine and Coat: In a large bowl, gently combine the cooled candied walnuts, the crispy fried shrimp, and the prepared honey sauce.
- EXPERT TIP – To prevent the crispy batter from detaching from the shrimp, we highly recommend using gloved hands to gently toss and coat the shrimp and walnuts with the sauce. This method ensures an even coating without damaging the delicate fried exterior. Simply scoop and gently fold until everything is beautifully glistening with the creamy sauce.
Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade masterpiece!
Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips for Success
Honey walnut shrimp is undoubtedly best enjoyed fresh, right after it’s made, when the shrimp is at its crispiest and the sauce is perfectly vibrant. However, if you do find yourself with leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. Keep in mind that fried shrimp doused in sauce will inevitably lose some of its crispiness upon refrigeration. For the best reheating results and to regain some of that desired texture, we highly recommend using an air fryer. Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through and slightly crisped. A conventional oven can also work, but avoid the microwave if you want to prevent a soggy outcome.
While you technically could use pre-cooked shrimp, we strongly advise against it for the best flavor and texture. Pre-cooked shrimp tends to become rubbery and tough when reheated or fried again. This recipe relies on raw shrimp that are gently fried to a tender-crisp perfection. Using raw shrimp ensures the juiciest, most flavorful results. If you must use cooked shrimp, skip the frying step and simply toss them directly with the sauce and walnuts, but be prepared for a different texture.
The key to perfectly candied walnuts lies in the initial boiling process and subsequent drying. Ensure the sugar syrup boils with the walnuts for the full 2 minutes, allowing the sugar to fully adhere. After draining, it’s absolutely crucial to pat them *very* dry with paper towels. Any residual moisture will prevent them from becoming truly crunchy. For an even crispier coating, you can lightly toast the candied walnuts in a dry skillet for a minute or two on low heat after they’ve dried, but be careful not to burn the sugar.
Absolutely! The creamy honey sauce can be prepared up to 2-3 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This is a fantastic time-saving tip, especially when entertaining or on a busy weeknight. Simply whisk it again briefly before combining it with the shrimp and walnuts. This makes the final assembly incredibly fast.
Achieving crispy shrimp involves a few key steps. First, ensure your shrimp are completely dry before dredging in the batter. Moisture creates steam, which prevents crispiness. Second, ensure your oil is adequately hot (medium-high heat) before adding the shrimp. If the oil isn’t hot enough, the shrimp will absorb too much oil and become greasy instead of crispy. Third, do not overcrowd the skillet. Fry the shrimp in batches if necessary, giving each piece enough space to cook evenly and get golden brown. Finally, drain the fried shrimp on paper towels immediately after cooking to absorb any excess oil.
Serving Suggestions for Honey Walnut Shrimp
This delectable Honey Walnut Shrimp is a star on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a variety of sides to create a complete and satisfying meal. For a classic presentation, serve it over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice. If you want to elevate your meal, consider homemade fried rice for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
To add some freshness and nutrients, you can also mix in or serve alongside steamed or stir-fried vegetables. Excellent options include vibrant green broccoli florets, crisp snap peas, thinly sliced bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange for color), or tender asparagus spears. A light sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or fresh chopped green onions over the finished dish adds an extra touch of garnish and flavor. You can even serve it as part of a larger Asian-inspired meal with other dishes like spring rolls or egg drop soup.
Explore More Delicious Shrimp Recipes
Love shrimp? You’re in good company! If you enjoyed this Honey Walnut Shrimp recipe, you’ll be thrilled to discover these other fantastic shrimp dishes that are sure to become family favorites:
- Crispy Shrimp
- Shrimp Pasta
- Shrimp Kabobs
- Shrimp Fajitas
- Air Fryer Shrimp
- Shrimp Po Boy
- Popcorn Shrimp
- Blackened Shrimp
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Honey Walnut Shrimp
IMPORTANT – There are often Frequently Asked Questions within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!
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Ingredients
- ½ cup water
- 1 Tablespoon granulated sugar
- 3 ounces walnuts
- 2 Tablespoons all purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- 3 Tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound large uncooked shrimp deveined, peeled, tails removed
Sauce
- ⅓ cup mayonnaise
- 3 Tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 ½ Tablespoons sweetened condensed milk
Things You’ll Need
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Large skillet
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Saucepan
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Vinyl gloves
Before You Begin
- Shrimp cooks very quickly, typically just a couple of minutes. Overcooking shrimp will make them tough and rubbery, so keep a close eye on them.
- We’re using 1 pound of large uncooked shrimp, which should be deveined, peeled, and have the tails removed. You can adjust shrimp size, but remember to adjust cooking times accordingly. Shrimp is cooked when it turns opaque/white with pink hues. If dredged, use the 2-3 minute per side rule.
- For frying the shrimp, you can use olive oil, canola oil, vegetable oil, or peanut oil. Choose an oil with a high smoke point for best results.
- For the best consistency and flavor, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing the sauce.
Instructions
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Combine water and sugar in a heavy-bottomed saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then add the walnuts.
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Stir the walnuts and allow them to boil in the syrup for 2 minutes. Drain the walnuts thoroughly and pat them dry with paper towels. Set them aside to cool.
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In a medium bowl, whisk together the egg and all-purpose flour to create a smooth batter for dipping the shrimp.
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Heat 3 tablespoons of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
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Dip each shrimp in the batter and carefully place it in the hot skillet. Fry for 2 minutes on each side until golden and crispy. Drain the fried shrimp on paper towels and set aside.
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To prepare the sauce, in a medium bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, honey, red pepper flakes, and sweetened condensed milk until smooth.
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In a large bowl, combine the candied walnuts, fried shrimp, and the creamy honey sauce. Using gloved hands (recommended to preserve the shrimp’s batter), gently toss and coat the shrimp and walnuts with the sauce until everything is evenly coated.
Nutrition
The recipes on this blog are tested with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. It’s important to note that some ovens, especially as they age, can cook and bake inconsistently. Using an inexpensive oven thermometer can assure you that your oven is truly heating to the proper temperature. If you use a toaster oven or countertop oven, please keep in mind that they may not distribute heat the same as a conventional full sized oven and you may need to adjust your cooking/baking times. In the case of recipes made with a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, or other appliance, a link to the appliances we use is listed within each respective recipe. For baking recipes where measurements are given by weight, please note that results may not be the same if cups are used instead, and we can’t guarantee success with that method.