Name: Honey Walnut Shrimp
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Chinese-American
Ingredients: 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1/2 cup cornstarch (or a mix of cornstarch and flour) for coating; 2 egg whites, beaten; 1/3 cup mayonnaise; 2 tbsp honey; 2 tbsp sweetened condensed milk; 1 tsp lemon juice or rice vinegar; 1/2 cup sugar (for candying walnuts); 1/2 cup walnuts; Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil); Water (for candying walnuts)

Honey Walnut Shrimp is one of my favorite dishes to make when I want something that’s both sweet and savory with a delightful crunch. It’s a popular Chinese-American recipe that features crispy shrimp coated in a creamy honey sauce and topped with candied walnuts. This dish always feels a little special and is perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a treat at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love Honey Walnut Shrimp because it balances textures and flavors so well. The shrimp is crispy on the outside but tender inside, while the honey sauce is smooth and just sweet enough to complement the nutty crunch of the candied walnuts. It’s an easy dish to prepare, but it feels fancy enough to impress guests. Plus, the homemade candied walnuts add an extra layer of indulgence that you won’t find in takeout versions.

Ingredients

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

Shrimp, peeled and deveined
Cornstarch and/or flour for coating
Egg whites for batter
Mayonnaise
Honey
Sweetened condensed milk
Lemon juice or rice vinegar
Sugar (for candying walnuts)
Walnuts
Oil for frying

Directions

Start by preparing the candied walnuts. In a small saucepan, combine sugar and water and bring to a boil. Add walnuts and cook until they’re coated and caramelized. Spread them out on parchment paper to cool and harden.
For the shrimp, lightly coat each piece with cornstarch or a mix of cornstarch and flour, then dip in beaten egg whites.
Heat oil in a deep pan or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry the shrimp in batches until golden and crispy, then drain on paper towels.
In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, honey, sweetened condensed milk, and a splash of lemon juice or vinegar to create the sauce.
Toss the fried shrimp gently in the sauce until evenly coated.
Plate the shrimp and sprinkle with the candied walnuts on top.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 4 people. Preparation and cooking usually take around 30 to 40 minutes, depending on how quickly the walnuts are candied and the shrimp are fried.

Variations

I sometimes like to add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce if I want a little kick. Another variation is using pecans instead of walnuts for a different nutty flavor. For a lighter version, I’ve swapped frying for baking the shrimp, which works well but changes the texture slightly.

storage/reheating

If I have leftovers, I store the shrimp and walnuts separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, I gently warm the shrimp in the oven or air fryer to keep them crispy, and I add the sauce fresh before serving. The candied walnuts are best kept at room temperature to maintain their crunch.

FAQs

What type of shrimp is best for Honey Walnut Shrimp?

I prefer using medium to large shrimp that are peeled and deveined. This size cooks quickly and holds up well to frying without becoming rubbery.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! I substitute regular flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend for coating the shrimp to keep the dish gluten-free.

How do I prevent the shrimp from getting soggy?

Frying the shrimp at the right temperature (around 350°F) and draining them on paper towels immediately helps maintain crispiness. Also, toss the shrimp gently in the sauce just before serving to avoid sogginess.

Can I prepare the candied walnuts ahead of time?

Absolutely. I often make the candied walnuts a day or two in advance. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them crunchy.

Is there a vegetarian version of Honey Walnut Shrimp?

While the traditional recipe centers on shrimp, I’ve tried using crispy tofu cubes as a vegetarian alternative, tossing them in the same sauce and topping with candied walnuts. It’s delicious and a great option for vegetarians.

Conclusion

Honey Walnut Shrimp is one of those dishes that I love for its perfect blend of sweet, creamy, and crunchy elements. Making it at home lets me customize the flavors and enjoy a fresh, crispy meal that beats takeout any day. Whether for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe always impresses and satisfies.

Honey Walnut Shrimp