Do you crave the sweet and crunchy delight of Honey Walnut Shrimp but want to skip takeout? You’re in luck! In this post, I’ll show you how to make this dish right at home, better than any restaurant can. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll impress your family and friends in no time. Let’s dive into the delicious world of cooking Honey Walnut Shrimp together!
Ingredients
List of Essential Ingredients
To make honey walnut shrimp, gather these key items:
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup walnuts
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 cup cornstarch
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Oil for frying
These ingredients work together to create the sweet and creamy sauce that coats the shrimp.
Suggested Seasonings
For added flavor, consider these seasonings:
– A pinch of garlic powder
– A dash of cayenne pepper for heat
These seasonings can make your dish pop with flavor and excite your taste buds.
Optional Garnishes
To make your dish look even more appealing, try these garnishes:
– Green onions, sliced
– Sesame seeds
These simple touches not only enhance the look but also add extra taste and texture.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Walnuts
Start by boiling water in a small saucepan. Add 1 cup of walnuts. Boil them for 2 to 3 minutes. This helps remove bitterness. Drain the walnuts and place them in a dry pan. Toast them over medium heat until they turn golden and smell nice. This step adds crunch and flavor. Set the walnuts aside to cool.
Making the Sauce
Grab a bowl and add 1/2 cup of mayonnaise. Next, pour in 1/4 cup of honey. Add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice and 1 teaspoon of soy sauce. Whisk these ingredients together until they blend well. This sauce gives the dish its sweet and creamy taste.
Coating the Shrimp
Take 1 pound of large shrimp, peeled and deveined. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove moisture. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper. Then, dredge each shrimp in 1 cup of cornstarch. Shake off any extra cornstarch. This creates a crispy coating when fried.
Frying the Shrimp
Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. The oil should cover the bottom of the pan. Once it’s hot, add the shrimp in batches. Fry each batch for about 2 to 3 minutes per side until they are golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and place them on a paper towel-lined plate. This helps drain the excess oil.
Combining Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, toss the fried shrimp with the honey sauce. Make sure all the shrimp are coated well. Then, add the toasted walnuts and gently mix them in. This step brings together all the flavors in the dish.
Serving Suggestions
To serve, place the honey walnut shrimp on a large dish. Drizzle extra sauce over the top for added flavor. Garnish with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. This adds color and a nice crunch. Serve it over fluffy rice or alongside steamed broccoli for a complete meal.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving Restaurant-Quality Flavors
To get that perfect taste, focus on fresh shrimp. Buy large shrimp for a nice bite. Use high-quality mayonnaise for the sauce. A mix of honey and lemon juice brings bright flavors. For a richer taste, add a bit more soy sauce. Adjust honey to make it sweeter or less sweet, based on your liking. Toss the shrimp in the sauce just before serving to keep them crisp.
Frying Tips for Perfect Shrimp
Frying shrimp can be tricky. Start with dry shrimp; this helps them fry well. Coat them evenly in cornstarch and shake off the extra. Use enough oil in the pan to keep the shrimp afloat. Heat the oil until it shimmers; this means it’s ready. Fry shrimp in small batches to avoid steaming. Cook each side for about 2-3 minutes until golden brown. Drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil.
Substitutions and Enhancements
You can switch walnuts for cashews or almonds for a new flavor. If you want a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. For a lighter version, swap mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. You can also use shrimp with the shells on for more flavor. If you want a twist, try adding pineapple chunks with the sauce. This gives a sweet and tangy touch, making the dish even more delightful!
Variations
Different Protein Options
You can switch shrimp for other proteins. Chicken is a great choice. Use boneless chicken breast or thigh. Cut it into bite-sized pieces. Beef is another option. Thinly slice flank steak and follow the same steps. Tofu is perfect for a vegetarian version. Press and cube firm tofu. This way, you can enjoy a tasty meal regardless of your diet.
Sauce Modifications
The sauce in this dish is key. You can change it up for fun. For a spicy kick, add Sriracha or chili paste. This will give your dish a zesty flavor. Want it sweeter? Increase the honey to suit your taste. You can also use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. This makes the sauce lighter but still creamy.
Healthier Versions
If you want a lighter meal, try these tips. Use air frying instead of deep frying. It gives a crispy texture without the extra oil. You can also swap walnuts for almonds or pecans. They both add a nice crunch. Using less honey can cut down on sugar too. This way, you still enjoy flavor without extra calories.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To store your honey walnut shrimp, let it cool first. Place it in an airtight container. The shrimp stays fresh in the fridge for up to three days. Keep the sauce separate to prevent sogginess. This way, it will taste great when you reheat it.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat, use a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or oil to keep it moist. Cook until heated through, about 5 minutes. You can also reheat in the microwave. Use a microwave-safe dish and cover it. Heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway.
Freezing Tips
If you want to freeze it, do so without the sauce. Place the shrimp in a freezer-safe bag. It will last up to three months. To thaw, move it to the fridge overnight. Reheat it after thawing for the best taste.
FAQs
What are the best shrimp to use for this recipe?
I recommend using large shrimp for this dish. They hold up well during cooking and have a great texture. You can use shrimp that is peeled and deveined to save time. Fresh shrimp is best, but frozen shrimp works too. Just make sure to thaw it fully before cooking.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the sauce and nuts ahead of time. Store the sauce in the fridge for up to two days. Keep the walnuts in an airtight container at room temperature. Cook the shrimp just before serving to keep them crispy.
What can I serve with honey walnut shrimp?
This dish pairs well with fluffy rice or steamed vegetables. I love serving it over jasmine rice. You can also add a side of broccoli or snap peas for color and crunch. A fresh salad would be great too!
How to keep the shrimp crispy after frying?
To keep the shrimp crispy, place them on a wire rack after frying. This allows air to circulate around them. Avoid stacking them on a plate, as this can make them soggy. Serve immediately after coating in sauce for the best crunch.
In this post, we covered key ingredients to make honey walnut shrimp. You learned how to prepare walnuts, make a sauce, and fry shrimp perfectly. We shared tips for great flavors and offered healthier options. Remember to store leftovers properly for the best taste later. With these steps and variations, you can enjoy a delicious dish any time. Now, grab your ingredients and get cooking!
