Honey Walnut Shrimp

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy, juicy shrimp coated in a creamy, flavorful sauce

• Candied walnuts add a sweet crunch and contrast

• Tastes just like your favorite takeout — or better

• Surprisingly easy to make with simple steps

• Crowd-pleasing and visually impressive

• Great for dinner parties or family dinners

• Ready in about 30 minutes

• Perfect balance of sweet, savory, and crunchy

• Pairs well with rice or noodles

• Can be customized for different dietary needs

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the candied walnuts:

• Walnuts

• Granulated sugar

• Water

For the shrimp:

• Large shrimp (peeled and deveined)

• Egg whites

• Cornstarch

For the honey sauce:

• Mayonnaise

• Honey

• Sweetened condensed milk

• Lemon juice (optional, for brightness)

For frying and garnish:

• Oil for frying

• Green onions or sesame seeds (optional)

Directions

1. Candy the Walnuts: In a small saucepan, bring water and sugar to a boil. Add walnuts and cook for 2–3 minutes. Drain and spread on parchment paper to dry slightly.

2. Heat oil in a skillet or pot over medium heat. Fry the walnuts for 1–2 minutes until golden and crisp. Drain on paper towels and set aside.

3. Prepare the Shrimp: In a bowl, whisk egg whites until frothy. Add cornstarch and stir into a thick batter. Toss shrimp in the mixture until coated.

4. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok. Fry the shrimp in batches for 2–3 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Drain on paper towels.

5. Make the Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, honey, and sweetened condensed milk until smooth.

6. Assemble: Toss the fried shrimp in the sauce until evenly coated. Gently fold in the candied walnuts.

7. Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds if desired, and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 4 servings.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Honey Walnut Shrimp: Add a dash of sriracha or red pepper flakes to the sauce.

• Healthier Version: Bake or air-fry the shrimp instead of deep-frying.

• Low-Sugar: Reduce the honey and condensed milk slightly, or use a sugar-free condensed milk substitute.

• Vegetarian Option: Replace shrimp with crispy tofu or tempura cauliflower.

• Coconut Twist: Add shredded coconut to the walnut candying process for extra texture.

Storage/Reheating

Honey Walnut Shrimp is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
To reheat, use an oven or air fryer at 350°F for 5–7 minutes to help retain crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the shrimp soggy.
For best results, store sauce and shrimp separately and combine just before serving.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just thaw and pat dry before coating and frying to ensure crispiness.

What kind of mayonnaise works best?

Regular or Japanese-style mayonnaise like Kewpie both work well for a creamy, rich sauce.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can prep the candied walnuts and sauce in advance. Fry the shrimp just before serving for best texture.

Is this dish very sweet?

It has a sweet-savory balance. You can adjust the honey or condensed milk to reduce sweetness to your liking.

Can I pan-fry the shrimp instead of deep-frying?

Yes, shallow pan-frying works well. Use enough oil to coat the bottom of the pan and cook on both sides until golden.

What should I serve with Honey Walnut Shrimp?

Steamed jasmine rice, fried rice, or stir-fried vegetables make great side dishes.

Can I use another nut besides walnuts?

Yes, pecans or cashews can be used, but walnuts are traditional and offer the best texture and flavor for this dish.

How do I keep the shrimp crispy after frying?

Place them on a wire rack after frying instead of paper towels to keep air circulating and prevent sogginess.

Is this dish gluten-free?

It can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free cornstarch and checking labels on other ingredients like mayo and condensed milk.

How do I candy walnuts without burning them?

Boil them in sugar water first, then dry slightly and fry quickly. Don’t overcook — they burn fast once in hot oil.

Conclusion

Honey Walnut Shrimp is a luxurious yet approachable dish that combines crispy shrimp, sweet candied walnuts, and a rich honey-mayo glaze. It’s a perfect blend of textures and flavors that feels indulgent without being difficult to make. Whether you’re recreating a favorite takeout dish or impressing guests at home, this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort.

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