Honey Walnut Shrimp Recipe

Crispy shrimp coated in a creamy, sweet, and slightly tangy sauce, topped with crunchy candied walnuts—honey walnut shrimp is a dish that perfectly balances texture and flavor. A popular Chinese-American recipe, it has become a favorite at restaurants like Panda Express. But why order takeout when you can make it at home?

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know to make the best honey walnut shrimp from scratch. You’ll learn about the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, cooking tips, variations, and more. Plus, we’ll share insights from chefs on how to get the crispiest shrimp and the most delicious sauce.

Chef’s Take on Honey Walnut Shrimp

“The secret to a great honey walnut shrimp recipe is in the balance. You want the shrimp to be crispy but not greasy, the sauce to be creamy but not overwhelming, and the walnuts to be crunchy without being too hard. If you get those right, you’ve got a restaurant-quality dish at home!” – Chef Daniel Wong, Chinese Cuisine Expert

Part 1: Introduction to Honey Walnut Shrimp

What is Honey Walnut Shrimp?

Honey walnut shrimp is a popular Chinese-American dish made of deep-fried shrimp coated in a creamy, sweet sauce, topped with caramelized walnuts. It’s often served over rice, creating a perfect blend of crunchy, creamy, and nutty flavors.

“This dish is all about contrast. The crispy shrimp, the smooth sauce, and the crunchy walnuts make every bite interesting.” – Chef Mei Lin

The Origin of Honey Walnut Shrimp

Despite being a staple in Chinese restaurants across America, honey walnut shrimp is not a traditional Chinese dish. It was inspired by Cantonese cuisine but adapted for Western tastes. The creamy sauce, which often includes mayonnaise, honey, and condensed milk, is not typically found in classic Chinese recipes.

Why This Dish is Popular

Honey walnut shrimp is loved for several reasons:

• Crispy yet tender shrimp: The shrimp stays crunchy while absorbing the rich sauce.
• Perfect balance of flavors: Sweet, savory, and slightly tangy.
• Easy to make at home: With a few key ingredients, you can recreate this dish anytime.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	450-500 kcal
Protein	25g
Carbohydrates	40g
Fats	20g
Sugar	15g
Sodium	600mg

Part 2: Ingredients for the Best Honey Walnut Shrimp

Making the perfect honey walnut shrimp recipe starts with choosing the right ingredients. The dish has three key components: the crispy shrimp, the candied walnuts, and the creamy honey sauce. Below, we break down everything you’ll need.

Essential Ingredients

To make this dish at home, gather the following:

Ingredient	Quantity	Purpose
Large shrimp (peeled, deveined)	1 lb	Main protein
Cornstarch	½ cup	Coating for crispiness
Egg whites	2	Helps create a light batter
Mayonnaise	½ cup	Base for the creamy sauce
Honey	¼ cup	Sweetener for the sauce
Sweetened condensed milk	2 tbsp	Adds richness to the sauce
Lemon juice	1 tsp	Provides a hint of tanginess
White sugar	½ cup	Used to candy the walnuts
Water	½ cup	Needed to dissolve sugar for walnuts
Walnuts	½ cup	Crunchy topping
Oil (for frying)	2 cups	Used to fry shrimp and walnuts

Choosing the Right Shrimp

The star of this dish is, of course, the shrimp. To get the best texture:

• Use large or jumbo shrimp for a meatier bite.
• Make sure they are peeled and deveined to save prep time.
• If using frozen shrimp, thaw them completely before cooking.

“Fresh shrimp gives you the best texture, but if you’re using frozen, pat them dry before coating to avoid soggy batter.” – Chef Ling Wei

Making the Perfect Candied Walnuts

Candied walnuts add a delightful crunch to the dish. To make them:

1. Heat sugar and water in a small saucepan over medium heat.
2. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely.
3. Add walnuts and let them cook for 3-5 minutes until they are glossy.
4. Remove and let them cool on parchment paper to harden.

“Let the walnuts dry completely before using them. If they’re sticky, they can ruin the dish’s texture.” – Chef Marcus Lee

Now that we have all the ingredients ready, let’s move on to the cooking process in Part 3.

Part 3: Step-by-Step Honey Walnut Shrimp Recipe

Now that we’ve gathered all the ingredients, it’s time to cook! Follow these easy steps to make a restaurant-quality honey walnut shrimp recipe at home.

Step 1: Preparing the Shrimp

1. Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel.
2. In a bowl, whisk the egg whites until foamy.
3. Dip the shrimp into the egg whites, then coat them with cornstarch. Shake off any excess.

“The trick to super crispy shrimp is making sure your cornstarch coating is even but not too thick.” – Chef Daniel Wong

Step 2: Making the Candied Walnuts

You should already have your candied walnuts ready, but if not, follow the method from Part 2. Let them cool completely before using them in the dish.

Step 3: Creating the Signature Honey Sauce

1. In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, honey, condensed milk, and lemon juice.
2. Stir until smooth and creamy.
3. Set aside until ready to toss with the shrimp.

“Don’t skip the lemon juice—it cuts through the sweetness and balances the sauce!” – Chef Mei Lin

Step 4: Frying the Shrimp to Perfection

1. Heat the oil in a pan to 350°F (175°C).
2. Fry the shrimp in batches for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
3. Remove and drain on a paper towel.

“Don’t overcrowd the pan! Frying in small batches keeps the shrimp crispy.” – Chef Marcus Lee

Step 5: Combining Everything for the Final Dish

1. In a large bowl, toss the crispy shrimp with the honey sauce.
2. Gently fold in the candied walnuts.
3. Serve immediately with steamed rice or noodles.

“The shrimp should be crispy, the sauce creamy, and the walnuts crunchy—each bite should be perfect!” – Chef Ling Wei

Part 4: Tips for the Perfect Honey Walnut Shrimp

Even with the right ingredients and steps, small mistakes can affect the final result. Here are some expert tips to help you make the best honey walnut shrimp recipe at home.

Getting the Right Batter Consistency

The batter is key to achieving that crispy texture.

• Whisk the egg whites until they are slightly foamy—this helps the cornstarch stick better.
• Coat the shrimp evenly but avoid making the layer too thick, or the shrimp will turn soggy.
• If the batter seems too wet, add a little more cornstarch to create a light, crispy coating.

“A thin batter gives you that perfect crunch without making the shrimp feel heavy.” – Chef Daniel Wong

How to Keep the Shrimp Crispy

No one likes soggy shrimp! Here’s how to keep them crispy:

• Always pat the shrimp dry before dipping them in the batter.
• Fry in small batches—overcrowding the pan lowers the oil temperature, making the shrimp greasy.
• Let the shrimp rest on a wire rack instead of paper towels to avoid trapping steam.
• Toss with the sauce right before serving to prevent them from becoming soggy.

“Frying in small batches ensures that the oil stays hot, which keeps the shrimp crispier for longer.” – Chef Mei Lin

Balancing Sweetness and Creaminess in the Sauce

The creamy honey sauce should be sweet but not overpowering.

• If you like a lighter sauce, reduce the mayonnaise slightly.
• Add an extra squeeze of lemon juice to cut through the richness.
• Use high-quality honey for a more natural sweetness.

“The sauce should complement the shrimp, not drown it. Keep it light, and always toss gently!” – Chef Marcus Lee

Part 5: Variations and Substitutes

Looking to customize your honey walnut shrimp recipe? There are plenty of ways to switch things up while keeping the dish delicious.

Healthier Alternatives

Want a lighter version? Try these healthier swaps:

• Baking instead of frying – Coat the shrimp in a thin layer of cornstarch and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 12-15 minutes until crispy.
• Air-frying – Cook the shrimp at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
• Using Greek yogurt instead of mayo – This keeps the sauce creamy while cutting down on fat.

“Air-frying is a great way to get crispy shrimp with less oil. Just make sure to shake the basket for even cooking!” – Chef Ling Wei

Different Ways to Cook the Shrimp

If you’re not a fan of deep-frying, here are some other methods:

• Pan-frying – Use less oil and cook the shrimp in a single layer, flipping once.
• Grilling – For a smoky flavor, grill the shrimp and drizzle the sauce on top after cooking.
• Steaming – Skip the batter and serve the shrimp with the sauce on the side.

“Grilled honey walnut shrimp is a great summer dish! The smoky flavor adds a new twist to the classic recipe.” – Chef Marcus Lee

Alternative Ingredients for the Sauce

Don’t have all the ingredients? Try these substitutions:

• Agave syrup instead of honey – If you prefer a lighter sweetness.
• Coconut milk instead of condensed milk – For a dairy-free version.
• Dijon mustard instead of lemon juice – Adds a tangy kick without overpowering the dish.

Part 6: Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve mastered the honey walnut shrimp recipe, it’s time to serve it in the best way possible. Whether you’re making a casual dinner or a special meal, the right sides and presentation can take this dish to the next level.

What to Serve with Honey Walnut Shrimp

This dish pairs well with both simple and flavorful sides. Here are some great options:

• Steamed White Rice – A classic choice that soaks up the sweet and creamy sauce.
• Fried Rice – A more flavorful alternative with eggs, veggies, and soy sauce.
• Garlic Noodles – Adds a rich, buttery taste that complements the shrimp.
• Stir-Fried Vegetables – Broccoli, bell peppers, or bok choy add a fresh and crunchy contrast.
• Quinoa or Cauliflower Rice – A lighter, low-carb option for a healthier meal.

“Pairing honey walnut shrimp with rice or noodles makes it feel just like a restaurant meal at home.” – Chef Mei Lin

Pairing with Side Dishes

Want to create a full meal? Here are some side dishes that go perfectly with honey walnut shrimp:

• Egg Drop Soup – A warm and comforting starter.
• Spring Rolls – Crispy rolls filled with veggies or shrimp.
• Asian Slaw – A tangy and crunchy salad to balance the creamy sauce.
• Steamed Dumplings – A delicious appetizer with soy dipping sauce.

“A fresh salad or a light soup helps balance the sweetness of the shrimp.” – Chef Daniel Wong

Best Occasions for This Dish

Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, honey walnut shrimp fits any event:

• Family Dinners – A homemade takeout favorite that everyone will love.
• Date Nights – Impress your partner with a restaurant-quality dish.
• Dinner Parties – Serve as an appetizer or main course for guests.
• Holiday Feasts – A great addition to festive meals like Lunar New Year or Thanksgiving.

“This dish looks fancy, but it’s easy to make—perfect for impressing guests!” – Chef Marcus Lee

Part 7: Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even experienced cooks can make mistakes when preparing honey walnut shrimp. Here’s what to watch out for and how to fix common problems.

Overcooking the Shrimp

Shrimp cook very quickly, and overcooking them can make them rubbery. To avoid this:

• Fry shrimp for just 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
• Remove from oil as soon as they turn crispy and pink.
• If using pre-cooked shrimp, toss them in the sauce last to avoid reheating too much.

“Shrimp should be crispy on the outside but still juicy inside. Don’t overdo it!” – Chef Ling Wei

Making the Walnuts Too Sticky or Too Hard

Candied walnuts should be crunchy, not chewy or rock-hard. Common mistakes include:

• Not letting the sugar dissolve fully – Always stir the sugar and water until clear.
• Cooking too long – Walnuts should be coated in syrup, not caramelized.
• Skipping the drying step – Let the walnuts cool completely before adding them to the dish.

“If your walnuts are sticky, try baking them at 300°F for 5 minutes to crisp them up.” – Chef Daniel Wong

Sauce Too Thick or Too Thin? Here’s the Fix

The sauce should be creamy but not too runny or too heavy. If it’s not the right consistency:

• Too thick? Add a teaspoon of warm water or lemon juice to thin it out.
• Too thin? Mix in a little more mayonnaise or honey to make it richer.
• Too sweet? Add an extra squeeze of lemon juice to balance the flavor.

“The right sauce texture makes all the difference. You want it smooth and silky, not watery or clumpy.” – Chef Mei Lin

Part 8: FAQs

Many people have questions about the honey walnut shrimp recipe, especially when making it for the first time. Here are some of the most common ones, along with simple answers to help you perfect this dish.

1. What is the sauce on honey walnut shrimp?

The creamy sauce is a blend of:

• Mayonnaise – for a smooth and rich texture
• Honey – to add sweetness
• Sweetened condensed milk – for extra creaminess
• Lemon juice – to balance the flavors with a hint of tang

“This sauce is what makes honey walnut shrimp so special! It’s sweet, creamy, and pairs perfectly with crispy shrimp.” – Chef Mei Lin

2. What is in the honey walnut shrimp at Panda Express?

Panda Express uses:

• Breaded and fried shrimp
• A creamy honey sauce
• Candied walnuts

While their version is tasty, making it at home allows you to control the ingredients and adjust the sweetness or crispiness to your liking.

3. Is honey walnut shrimp a real Chinese dish?

Not exactly. This dish was inspired by Cantonese cuisine but was adapted for Western tastes. Traditional Chinese shrimp dishes often use lighter sauces without mayonnaise. The creamy sauce in honey walnut shrimp is more of an American-Chinese creation.

“It may not be an old traditional recipe, but it’s definitely a favorite in Chinese restaurants today!” – Chef Daniel Wong

4. Can I make this dish without deep frying?

Yes! If you want a healthier version, try these methods:

• Baking – Coat the shrimp lightly with oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes.
• Air-frying – Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, shaking halfway through.
• Pan-frying – Use just a little oil and cook the shrimp for about 2 minutes per side.

“You don’t need to deep fry to enjoy this dish! Air-frying works great and keeps it light.” – Chef Marcus Lee

Part 9: Final Thoughts

Now that you’ve learned everything about making the perfect honey walnut shrimp recipe, it’s time to put your skills to the test! With crispy shrimp, a creamy sauce, and crunchy walnuts, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends.

Why You Should Try This Recipe

• It’s easy to make at home – No need to order takeout when you can make a fresher version yourself.
• You can customize it – Adjust the sauce, change the cooking method, or add extra toppings.
• It’s a crowd-pleaser – Perfect for family dinners, date nights, or special occasions.

“Homemade honey walnut shrimp is even better than restaurant versions because you can make it exactly how you like it!” – Chef Ling Wei

For more delicious seafood recipes, check out our Crab Brûlée Recipe and discover a new favorite!

Now, grab your ingredients and start cooking. Your homemade honey walnut shrimp is just a few steps away from becoming your new favorite meal!

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