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Crispy Honey Walnut Shrimp Recipe Easy Takeout Style Dinner

crispy honey walnut shrimp - featured image

This crispy honey walnut shrimp recipe brings classic Chinese takeout vibes home with crunchy, golden shrimp tossed in a creamy honey sauce and caramelized walnuts. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy family dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup walnut halves
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/3 cup water
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 2 large egg whites
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • Vegetable oil, for frying
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon condensed milk
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • Pinch of salt
  • Thinly sliced green onions (optional, for garnish)
  • Steamed white rice or jasmine rice (optional, for serving)

Instructions

  1. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar and water. Bring to a gentle boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves.
  2. Add walnut halves and a pinch of salt. Boil for 2-3 minutes, until the syrup thickens slightly and the walnuts are glossy.
  3. Using a slotted spoon, transfer walnuts to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Let them cool and harden (about 10 minutes).
  4. Optional: Preheat oven to 325°F. Spread cooled, caramelized walnuts on a baking sheet and toast for 5 minutes until fragrant and extra crunchy.
  5. Pat shrimp dry with paper towels. Season with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Toss to coat evenly.
  6. In a clean bowl, whisk egg whites until frothy. Add shrimp and toss until coated.
  7. Add cornstarch and mix gently until every shrimp is coated in a light, powdery batter.
  8. Heat about 1 1/2 inches of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok to 350°F.
  9. Working in batches, gently lower shrimp into the oil. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden and crisp. Transfer fried shrimp to a paper towel-lined plate. Repeat until all shrimp are cooked.
  10. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, honey, condensed milk, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt until smooth and creamy.
  11. In a large bowl, gently toss hot, crispy shrimp with the honey sauce until evenly coated. Fold in caramelized walnuts.
  12. Serve immediately, garnished with sliced green onions and extra walnuts if desired. Serve over steamed rice.

Notes

Pat shrimp dry for maximum crispiness. Fry in batches and keep oil at 350°F for best results. Caramelize walnuts ahead for convenience. For a lighter version, bake shrimp instead of frying. Double the walnuts for extra snacking. Sauce can be made ahead and refrigerated.

Nutrition

Keywords: honey walnut shrimp, Chinese takeout, crispy shrimp, easy dinner, Asian recipe, seafood, restaurant style, family dinner, quick recipe, comfort food