Sweet Honey Walnut Shrimp: A Delightful Homemade Treat

As I stirred the fragrant stir-fry in my skillet, my kitchen transformed into a bustling restaurant, alive with the sizzling sound of shrimp dancing in the heat. Today, I'm thrilled to share my version of Honey Walnut Shrimp—a delightful dish that combines sweet honey and crunchy walnuts for an irresistible finish. Not only is this recipe quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights, but it brings a gourmet touch to your dinner table that will impress family and friends alike. There’s something truly special about enjoying homemade food over fast food, and I promise this dish will become a go-to in your kitchen rotation. Are you ready to whip up this crowd-pleaser and savor every bite?

Why do you need this shrimp recipe?

Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you crave something special without the hassle.

Sweet and Savory: The honey adds a delightful sweetness, perfectly complementing the crunchy walnuts and succulent shrimp. It's a flavor explosion that will excite your taste buds!

Gourmet Appeal: Impress your guests with a restaurant-quality dish right from your own kitchen. This is much more satisfying than grabbing takeout!

Versatile Pairing: Serve it over rice or alongside your favorite veggies, like the Roasted Sweet Honey for a complete meal that's both nutritious and delicious.

Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for family dinners or entertaining, this dish is sure to be a hit. While you’re at it, explore other delightful recipes like Sheet Pan Honey for more inspiration!

Honey Walnut Shrimp Ingredients

For the Shrimp
• Shrimp – Peeled and deveined shrimp is the best choice for convenience and flavor.
• Flour (⅓ cup) – Essential for dredging the shrimp and creating a crispy coating; feel free to swap for gluten-free flour if needed.
• Eggs (2, lightly beaten) – They help the batter adhere; for a vegan option, consider using a flax egg.
• Panko Breadcrumbs (1 cup) – Provides that unmistakable light and crispy texture; gluten-free panko is a great alternative for dietary needs.
• Oil for Frying – Peanut or vegetable oil is recommended for achieving the perfect fry without greasiness.

For the Sauce
• Mayonnaise (2 tablespoons) – Adds a creamy element to the sauce that complements the sweetness.
• Sweetened Condensed Milk (1 tablespoon, optional) – This ingredient enhances the sauce with additional sweetness; leave it out for a lighter version.
• Honey (1 tablespoon) – The star ingredient that brings that delightful sweetness to your Honey Walnut Shrimp.
• Lemon Juice (1 tablespoon, optional) – Brightens the flavor; use fresh or bottled based on availability.
• Walnuts (1 cup, ideally candied) – Provides a lovely crunch; pecans can also be substituted for a different flavor experience.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Honey Walnut Shrimp

Step 1: Preparation of Shrimp
Begin by preparing your shrimp for the Honey Walnut Shrimp. In a shallow dish, add flour and whisk to aerate. Dredge each peeled and deveined shrimp in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip the floured shrimp into the lightly beaten eggs, allowing the excess to drip off, before coating them in panko breadcrumbs. Ensure every shrimp is coated well and set them aside.

Step 2: Frying
Heat about 1 inch of peanut or vegetable oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat, aiming for a temperature of around 350°F. Once the oil shimmers, carefully add the breaded shrimp in batches, avoiding overcrowding. Fry each side for about 1-3 minutes until they turn a beautiful golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the shrimp to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 3: Sauce Preparation
While the shrimp are frying, prepare the creamy sauce for your Honey Walnut Shrimp. In a mixing bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon of sweetened condensed milk (if using), 1 tablespoon of honey, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. Stir the mixture until it is smooth and well blended. Then, fold in the walnuts to add a delightful crunch to the sauce.

Step 4: Finishing Touch
Once all the shrimp are fried, it’s time to bring the Honey Walnut Shrimp together. In a large serving bowl, toss the crispy shrimp in the prepared sauce mixture. Ensure that every piece is evenly coated for maximum flavor. Serve the dish immediately, allowing the warm shrimp to soak in some of the sauce while still retaining their crispiness.

Storage Tips for Honey Walnut Shrimp

• Fridge: Store any leftover Honey Walnut Shrimp in an airtight container for up to 2 days. This keeps the shrimp fresh and helps maintain its flavors.
• Freezer: If you need to store it longer, freeze the shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. Use within 1 month for the best taste.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the shrimp on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 10 minutes. This helps retain the crispiness, ensuring delicious leftovers.
• Avoid Microwaving: Reheating in the microwave can make the shrimp soggy, so stick to the oven for the best results and enjoy that delightful crunch!

Honey Walnut Shrimp Variations

Feel free to enhance and personalize your dish with these exciting swaps and additions!

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and panko breadcrumbs to ensure everyone can enjoy this delightful dish.

• Vegan Option: Replace the eggs with a flax egg and swap out mayonnaise for a vegan mayo for a plant-based version.

• Nutty Twist: Try using candied pecans instead of walnuts for a slightly different flavor profile that's just as crunchy and delicious.

• Extra Crunch: Incorporate a handful of sesame seeds or crispy fried onions to the finished dish for an added layer of texture and flavor.

• Spicy Kick: Mix in a tablespoon of Sriracha or a dash of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy and exciting twist.

• Tropical Flavor: Swap sweetened condensed milk for coconut cream to give your sauce a delightful tropical flair—a tasty change from the traditional recipe.

• Family-Style: Serve your Honey Walnut Shrimp over a bed of fried rice or with a side of steamed broccoli, like in the Sheet Pan Honey, for a heartier meal.

• Sauce Variation: Instead of just using lemon juice, consider adding a splash of orange juice to the sauce for a brighter citrus flavor that compliments the sweetness beautifully.

Make Ahead Options

These Honey Walnut Shrimp are perfect for meal prep, allowing busy home cooks to enjoy restaurant-quality flavors with minimal fuss! You can prepare the shrimp by dredging and breading them up to 24 hours in advance. Simply place the coated shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. This helps maintain their crispiness when fried. When you're ready to serve, heat the oil and fry the shrimp as directed until they're golden brown. The sauce can also be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a quick stir before tossing it with the freshly fried shrimp for the perfect finish!

Expert Tips for Honey Walnut Shrimp

• Perfect Frying Temperature: Ensure your oil is heated to around 350°F before adding shrimp. This prevents greasiness and ensures a crispy, delicious coating.
• Batch Frying: Avoid overcrowding the pan; fry shrimp in small batches to maintain the oil temperature and achieve that perfect golden brown.
• Alternative Coatings: For a gluten-free option, swap regular panko with gluten-free panko or even cornstarch for a lighter texture in your Honey Walnut Shrimp.
• Sauce Customization: Drizzle in a hint of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to add a spicy twist to your sauce, offering a delightful flavor contrast.
• Storage Wisdom: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days; reheat them in the oven to keep the shrimp crispy rather than soggy.

What to Serve with Honey Walnut Shrimp

Create a stunning meal alongside your crispy, sweet dish that will delight everyone at the table.

• Steamed Jasmine Rice:
  A fluffy bed of jasmine rice absorbs the sweet sauce beautifully, balancing the rich flavors of the shrimp. This classic pairing brings comfort with each bite!

• Stir-Fried Vegetables:
  Colorful veggies stir-fried in soy sauce add a vibrant touch, offering a crunchy contrast that complements the dish's textures and flavors. Think bell peppers, snap peas, and broccoli!

• Coconut Rice:
  Infuse some coconut milk into your rice for a tropical twist! The creamy and slightly sweet rice enhances the honey flavors, making each mouthful a delight.

• Asian Slaw:
  A crunchy slaw with cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing adds freshness and a hint of tanginess. It's a perfect complement to the rich shrimp, helping to cleanse the palate.

• Wonton Soup:
  This light and warming soup enriches your meal's experience with its comforting broth and crisp wontons. It pairs well with everything, creating a heartwarming feel.

• Lemonade or Iced Tea:
  An ice-cold drink is essential to balance the sweet flavors of the Honey Walnut Shrimp. Try cucumber lemonade for a refreshing twist or a classic iced tea with lemon for a comforting touch.

Enhancing your dish with these pairings will transform any meal into a joyful feast. Enjoy!

Honey Walnut Shrimp Recipe FAQs

What type of shrimp should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and convenience, choose peeled and deveined shrimp. If you can find fresh shrimp, that’s even better. However, if you're short on time, frozen shrimp works perfectly fine as long as you thaw it properly before cooking.

How should I store leftover Honey Walnut Shrimp?
Store any leftover Honey Walnut Shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. This helps keep the shrimp fresh and savory. Just remember to reheat them in an oven at 375°F for about 10 minutes to regain that delicious crispiness!

Can I freeze Honey Walnut Shrimp?
Yes, you can freeze them! To do this, first lay the cooked shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, and use them within 1 month for the best taste. Just be sure to reheat them from frozen, preferably in the oven, to keep that crunch.

What should I do if my shrimp aren’t crispy?
Very! If your shrimp don’t turn out crispy, it might be due to the oil temperature being too low. Make sure your oil is around 350°F when frying. Also, try not to overcrowd the pan, as this can lead to steaming instead of frying, making your shrimp soggy. If you follow these tips, you should get that delicious crispy finish!

Are there any dietary considerations for this dish?
Definitely! For gluten-free options, simply substitute regular flour and panko with gluten-free alternatives. Additionally, if you have allergies to nuts, you can omit the walnuts altogether or substitute them with seeds like sunflower seeds for a similar crunch. Always make sure to check the labels of your ingredients for any hidden allergens.

How long does it take to prepare and cook the Honey Walnut Shrimp?
Good question! This amazing dish can come together in just under 30 minutes, including prep and cooking time. Making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans.