- What is Honey Walnut Shrimp?
- The History of Honey Walnut Shrimp
- Tips for Making Perfect Honey Walnut Shrimp
- Variations on Honey Walnut Shrimp
- Variations on Honey Walnut Shrimp
- Health Benefits of Honey Walnut Shrimp
- How to Serve Honey Walnut Shrimp
- Conclusion
- Is honey walnut shrimp a traditional Chinese dish?
- Can I use frozen shrimp for honey walnut shrimp?
- Can I use a different type of nut instead of walnuts?
- Can I make the honey walnut shrimp sauce in advance?
- How can I make the honey walnut shrimp crispy?
- How many calories are in honey walnut shrimp?
- Can I use a different type of seafood instead of shrimp?
- How long does honey walnut shrimp last in the fridge?
Are you looking for a tasty and easy-to-make dish that will impress your family and friends? Look no further than honey walnut shrimp! This Chinese-American favorite is a crowd-pleaser that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. In this article, we will give you a step-by-step guide to making this delectable dish.

What is Honey Walnut Shrimp?
Honey walnut shrimp is a Chinese-American dish that is made by deep-frying shrimp coated in a batter and then tossed in a sweet, creamy sauce made from honey and condensed milk. The dish is typically garnished with candied walnuts, which add a satisfying crunch and a touch of sweetness.
The History of Honey Walnut Shrimp
The origins of honey walnut shrimp are not entirely clear, but it is believed to have been created in California in the 1980s by Chinese-American chefs looking to create a new twist on traditional Chinese dishes. The dish quickly became popular in Chinese-American restaurants and has since become a staple on menus throughout the United States.
Ingredients
To make honey walnut shrimp, you will need the following ingredients:
- -1 pound of shrimp, peeled and deveined
- -1/2 cup of cornstarch
- -1/2 cup of flour
- -1/2 teaspoon of salt
- -1/2 teaspoon of pepper
- -1 egg
- -1/2 cup of water
- -Oil for frying
- -1/2 cup of mayonnaise
- -1/4 cup of honey
- -1/4 cup of condensed milk
- -1/2 cup of walnuts
- -1/4 cup of sugar
Step 1: Preparing the Shrimp
Start by peeling and deveining the shrimp, making sure to remove the tail as well. In a separate bowl, mix together the cornstarch, flour, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, beat the egg and mix it with the water.
Step 2: Coating the Shrimp
Dip each shrimp into the egg mixture and then into the cornstarch mixture, making sure to coat it evenly. Shake off any excess flour and place the shrimp on a plate.
Step 3: Frying the Shrimp
Heat the oil in a deep fryer or wok to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Carefully add the shrimp to the oil and fry until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes. Remove the shrimp from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain off any excess oil.
Step 4: Making the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, honey, and condensed milk until smooth.
Step 5: Making the Candied Walnuts
In a small pan, melt the sugar over medium heat until it turns a golden brown color. Add the walnuts and stir to coat them evenly. Remove the walnuts from the pan and place them on a piece of parchment paper to cool.
Step 6: Combining the Shrimp, Sauce, and Walnuts
Add the fried shrimp to the sauce and toss to coat evenly. Sprinkle the candied walnuts over the top and serve immediately.
Tips for Making Perfect Honey Walnut Shrimp

- -Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
- -Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the shrimp to prevent them from getting soggy.
- -Don’t overcrowd the fryer or wok, as this can cause the shrimp to cook unevenly.
- -Be careful when making candied walnuts, as the sugar can burn easily.
Variations on Honey Walnut Shrimp
There are many variations that you have started.
Variations on Honey Walnut Shrimp
There are many variations on honey walnut shrimp that you can try to make the dish even more delicious. Here are a few ideas:
- -Add a touch of spice by adding some red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce.
- -Use different types of nuts, such as cashews or almonds, instead of walnuts.
- -Add some vegetables to the dish, such as broccoli or snow peas, to make it healthier.
- -Use different types of seafood, such as scallops or crab, instead of shrimp.
- -Experiment with different types of sauces, such as sweet and sour or garlic sauce.
Health Benefits of Honey Walnut Shrimp
While honey walnut shrimp is not the healthiest dish, it does have some nutritional benefits. Shrimp is a good source of protein and contains vitamins and minerals such as selenium and vitamin B12. Walnuts are also a good source of protein and contain healthy fats and antioxidants.
How to Serve Honey Walnut Shrimp

Honey walnut shrimp is typically served as a main dish, but it can also be served as an appetizer or as part of a larger meal. It pairs well with rice or noodles and can be accompanied by steamed vegetables or a salad.
Conclusion
Honey walnut shrimp is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is sure to impress your family and friends. With a crispy coating, creamy sauce, and crunchy walnuts, it is a dish that has something for everyone. Whether you are an experienced cook or a beginner, you can easily make this Chinese-American favorite at home. So why not give it a try and see for yourself how tasty it can be?
FAQs
Is honey walnut shrimp a traditional Chinese dish?
No, honey walnut shrimp is a Chinese-American dish that originated in California in the 1980s.
Can I use frozen shrimp for honey walnut shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp for this dish. Just make sure to thaw them before cooking.
Can I use a different type of nut instead of walnuts?
Yes, you can use other types of nuts such as cashews or almonds.
Can I make the honey walnut shrimp sauce in advance?
Yes, you can make the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
How can I make the honey walnut shrimp crispy?
To make the honey walnut shrimp crispy, make sure to coat the shrimp in cornstarch before frying.
How many calories are in honey walnut shrimp?
The number of calories in honey walnut shrimp can vary depending on the recipe, but a typical serving contains around 500-600 calories.
Can I use a different type of seafood instead of shrimp?
Yes, you can use other types of seafood such as scallops or crab.
How long does honey walnut shrimp last in the fridge?
Honey walnut shrimp can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, it is best to consume it immediately for the best taste and texture.