Print

Crispy Honey Walnut Shrimp Recipe with Easy Candied Walnuts Guide

crispy honey walnut shrimp - featured image

A quick and easy recipe featuring crispy shrimp coated in a sweet honey walnut sauce paired with homemade candied walnuts. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or a special treat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (wild-caught if possible)
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon white pepper (optional)
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 1/2 cup cold water
  • Vegetable oil for frying (canola or peanut oil recommended)
  • 1/3 cup mayonnaise
  • 3 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 3/4 cup walnut halves
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Prepare the candied walnuts: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar, water, and a pinch of salt. Stir until sugar dissolves, then add walnut halves. Stir continuously as syrup thickens and walnuts become glossy, about 4-5 minutes. Transfer to wire rack or parchment paper to cool and harden.
  2. Make the batter: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and white pepper. Add beaten egg and cold water, stirring just until combined. Batter should be slightly thick but smooth. Add water if too thick. Do not overmix.
  3. Coat the shrimp: Pat shrimp dry with paper towels. Dip each shrimp into the batter, letting excess drip off, and place on a plate.
  4. Fry the shrimp: Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a wok or deep skillet to 350°F. Fry shrimp in batches for 2-3 minutes, turning once, until golden and crispy. Transfer shrimp to wire rack or paper towels to drain. Maintain oil temperature to avoid greasy or burnt shrimp.
  5. Mix the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, honey, sweetened condensed milk, and lemon juice until smooth and creamy.
  6. Toss and serve: Place fried shrimp in a large bowl, pour honey walnut sauce over, and gently toss to coat. Add cooled candied walnuts, toss lightly, and serve immediately.

Notes

Keep candied walnuts separate until final toss to maintain crunch. Use cold water and chill batter briefly for crispiness. Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature. Use a thermometer to keep oil at 350°F. Avoid overmixing batter. Make sauce fresh before serving for best texture. For gluten-free, substitute flour with rice flour or gluten-free blend and ensure cornstarch is gluten-free.

Nutrition

Keywords: honey walnut shrimp, crispy shrimp, candied walnuts, easy shrimp recipe, sweet and savory shrimp, family dinner, potluck recipe