Walnut Shrimp is a beloved Chinese-American takeout classic, featuring crispy shrimp, candied walnuts, and a rich, creamy sauce with a sweet and savory balance. This recipe provides a healthier, easier twist on the original by using a pan-fried method and reduced sugar for the walnuts. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or indulging in a cozy night in, this dish is sure to impress with its restaurant-quality flavor and elegant presentation.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Glazed Walnuts:

1 cup roasted walnuts
2 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon vegetable oil

For the Sauce:

¼ cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon sweetened condensed milk
2 teaspoons honey (or maple syrup)
2 teaspoons rice vinegar (or lemon juice)
½ teaspoon light soy sauce

For the Shrimp:

1 lb (450 g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine
¼ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon grated ginger
¼ teaspoon white pepper
4 tablespoons cornstarch
¼ cup vegetable oil (for shallow frying)

For Garnish:

Green onion, sliced

Directions

Marinate the Shrimp:
- In a medium bowl, combine shrimp, Shaoxing wine, salt, grated ginger, and white pepper. Marinate for 10 minutes.
Make the Glazed Walnuts:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Swirl the pan to coat.
- Sprinkle sugar evenly over the pan and cook on medium-low heat, swirling occasionally, until the sugar melts and turns amber.
- Stir in walnuts to coat them evenly, then transfer to a parchment-lined plate to cool and harden.
Prepare the Sauce:
- In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, condensed milk, honey, rice vinegar, and soy sauce until smooth.
Cook the Shrimp:
- Coat the marinated shrimp evenly with cornstarch.
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the shrimp in batches, ensuring they don’t overlap, until golden on both sides. Remove and let cool slightly.
Assemble the Dish:
- Place the shrimp in a large mixing bowl (ensure they are warm but not too hot). Add the sauce and mix gently.
- Toss in half of the glazed walnuts and mix. Transfer to a serving dish, then sprinkle with the remaining walnuts and garnish with green onions.

Nutrients

Serving Size: 1 portion (out of 4 servings)
Calories: ~247 kcal
Nutritional Breakdown:
- Protein: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 42mg
- Sodium: 837mg
- Sugar: 10g

Walnut Shrimp is the perfect blend of crunch, sweetness, and creamy indulgence. Serve it over steamed rice or pair it with stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal that’s sure to become a favorite!

What Makes Walnut Shrimp Special?

The popularity of Walnut Shrimp lies in its unique combination of textures and flavors. Each component of the dish plays a critical role in creating its signature taste:

The Shrimp:
- Juicy, tender shrimp are lightly marinated with Shaoxing wine, ginger, and white pepper to enhance their natural sweetness and add depth to their flavor.
- A coating of cornstarch ensures a light, crispy exterior when pan-fried, providing the perfect contrast to the creamy sauce.
The Sauce:
- The sauce is rich and creamy, with a sweet and tangy profile that comes from mayonnaise, condensed milk, honey, and a hint of rice vinegar.
- This luxurious sauce clings to the shrimp, ensuring every bite is full of flavor.
The Glazed Walnuts:
- Candied walnuts add a delightful crunch and a subtle sweetness that complements the shrimp and sauce.
- Lightly coated with a caramel glaze, the walnuts bring a touch of elegance and a satisfying nutty aroma.
The Garnish:
- Freshly sliced green onions provide a bright, aromatic finish that cuts through the richness of the sauce and adds a pop of color.

Together, these elements create a dish that is as visually stunning as it is delicious.

The History of Walnut Shrimp

Walnut Shrimp, also known as Honey Walnut Shrimp, originated from Cantonese cuisine but gained widespread popularity in the United States through Chinese-American restaurants. Its luxurious, creamy sauce and crispy texture make it a standout dish that is often served at banquets, weddings, and special celebrations.

The dish exemplifies the creativity of Chinese-American cuisine, blending traditional Chinese cooking techniques with Western ingredients like mayonnaise and condensed milk. Over time, Walnut Shrimp has become a quintessential comfort food that appeals to a wide audience.

Healthier and Simpler: This Recipe’s Approach

While the traditional version of Walnut Shrimp is undeniably indulgent, this recipe offers a healthier and more accessible twist without compromising on taste:

Pan-Frying Instead of Deep-Frying:
- Pan-frying the shrimp reduces the amount of oil used, making the dish lighter while still achieving a crispy texture.
Reduced Sugar:
- The candied walnuts are made with less sugar than the original version, allowing the natural sweetness of the walnuts to shine.
Easy Steps:
- By simplifying the preparation process, this recipe makes it possible to enjoy Walnut Shrimp on even the busiest weeknights.

These adjustments ensure that the dish remains both flavorful and practical for home cooks.

Customizing Walnut Shrimp to Suit Your Tastes

One of the best things about Walnut Shrimp is its versatility. Here are a few ways to customize the recipe:

Sauce Variations:
- Add a teaspoon of Sriracha or a pinch of chili flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise to create a tangier, lighter sauce.
Different Nuts:
- Swap walnuts for pecans, almonds, or cashews for a slightly different flavor and texture.
Vegetables:
- Toss in steamed broccoli, snap peas, or sautéed bell peppers for added color and nutrients.
Protein Alternatives:
- Replace shrimp with chicken, tofu, or even scallops for a unique twist on the dish.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve Walnut Shrimp over steamed rice, fried rice, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

These variations allow you to tailor the dish to your preferences and dietary needs.

Perfect Pairings for Walnut Shrimp

While Walnut Shrimp is delicious on its own, pairing it with complementary sides and beverages can elevate your dining experience:

Sides:
- Steamed Rice: The neutral flavor of rice balances the richness of the sauce.
- Vegetable Stir-Fry: Add a medley of fresh vegetables like zucchini, carrots, and broccoli for a colorful and nutritious side.
- Noodles: Serve with sesame noodles or lo mein for a heartier meal.
Beverages:
- A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light, bubbly Prosecco pairs beautifully with the dish’s creamy sauce and nutty undertones.
- For non-alcoholic options, green tea or sparkling water with a splash of lime is refreshing.
Desserts:
- Finish the meal with a light dessert like mango sorbet, lychee jelly, or almond cookies for a satisfying conclusion.

These pairings ensure that your Walnut Shrimp meal feels complete and well-balanced.

Tips for Perfecting Walnut Shrimp

To ensure your Walnut Shrimp turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips:

Choose Quality Shrimp:
- Opt for fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp that are peeled and deveined. Large or jumbo shrimp work best for this recipe.
Don’t Overcook the Shrimp:
- Shrimp cook quickly, so keep an eye on them while frying to prevent them from becoming rubbery.
Even Coating:
- Ensure the shrimp are evenly coated with cornstarch for consistent crispiness.
Cool the Walnuts:
- Allow the glazed walnuts to cool completely before mixing them into the dish to maintain their crunch.
Mix the Sauce Last:
- Combine the shrimp and sauce just before serving to preserve the shrimp’s crispy texture.

These tips will help you achieve a dish that’s as close to perfection as possible.

Conclusion: A Dish Worth Savoring

Walnut Shrimp is more than just a recipe—it’s a culinary experience that brings together bold flavors, elegant presentation, and comforting textures. Its unique combination of crispy shrimp, creamy sauce, and sweet candied walnuts creates a dish that’s both indulgent and satisfying.

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