How long does it take to make Walnut Shrimp?

Based on our recipe instructions, preparing Walnut Shrimp takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour. This includes the time for frying walnuts and shrimp, preparing the sauce, and blanching the broccoli. Timing may vary slightly depending on your cooking pace and experience.

What ingredients do I need for Walnut Shrimp?

You'll need the following ingredients: neutral oil for frying, walnut halves, water, granulated sugar, salt, mayonnaise, sweetened condensed milk, rice vinegar, honey (optional), large shrimp (peeled and deveined), cornstarch, broccoli, and a bit of vegetable oil for blanching the broccoli.

Can I prepare the candied walnuts in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the candied walnuts in advance. Once the walnuts are coated with the simple syrup and hardened, allow them to cool completely on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Store them in an airtight container until you're ready to use them in the dish.

How do I ensure the shrimp are crispy?

To ensure crispy shrimp, make sure they are well-coated with cornstarch before frying. Dust them lightly at first, and then re-dust with cornstarch just before frying. Fry the shrimp at the correct oil temperature (350°F/175°C) for 2 to 3 minutes until golden brown.

What can I use instead of rice vinegar for the sauce?

If you don't have rice vinegar on hand, you can use a mild fruit juice like apple or white grape juice to add a touch of acidity and sweetness to the sauce. Adjust the quantity to taste, keeping in mind the balance of flavors.

How do I keep the broccoli from overcooking?

To prevent overcooking, blanch the broccoli for just 30 seconds in boiling water with salt and oil, then immediately transfer it to cold water to stop the cooking process. This will keep the broccoli crisp and vibrant in color.

Walnut Shrimp: Irresistible Crunchy Delight

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Walking along the sandy shores as a child, I often marveled at the bounty of the sea. The salty breeze carried with it the promise of delicious seafood feasts that would soon find their way to our table. Among these treasures, one dish stood out: Walnut Shrimp. Its unique blend of crunchy, candied walnuts and crispy shrimp, all bathed in a creamy sauce, was a family favorite.

The joy of Walnut Shrimp is in its simplicity and the symphony of textures and flavors it offers. Each bite is a delightful contrast between the succulent shrimp and the sweet, crunchy walnuts. Growing up by the coast, I developed a deep appreciation for how these flavors mirrored the beauty of the ocean—simple yet profound.

Creating Walnut Shrimp at home became a cherished ritual. The process of frying the shrimp to golden perfection and glazing the walnuts brought back fond memories of family gatherings. This dish has become a staple in my kitchen, a testament to the timeless appeal of seafood dishes that combine elegance with ease.

In this post, I’m excited to share my tried-and-true recipe for Walnut Shrimp. This beloved dish brings together the freshest shrimp with a touch of indulgence, perfect for any occasion. Let’s dive into the art of crafting this seafood classic.

Walnut Shrimp

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Author: Lettie
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Main Course
Method: Frying
Cuisine: Asian

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Description

Discover how to make delicious Walnut Shrimp at home with this easy recipe. Learn the secrets to creating a mouthwatering dish that will impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

– 3-4 cups (710-946 ml) neutral oil (for frying, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil; you’ll use the same oil for the shrimp)
– 30 walnut halves
– 2 tablespoons (30 ml) water
– 2 tablespoons (25 g) granulated sugar
– 1/8 teaspoon (1 ml) salt
– 1/4 cup (60 g) mayonnaise
– 3 tablespoons (45 ml) sweetened condensed milk
– 1/4 teaspoon (1 ml) rice vinegar
– 2 teaspoons (10 ml) honey (optional)
– 1/8 teaspoon (1 ml) salt
– 1 pound (454 g) large shrimp (16/20 size shrimp, peeled and deveined)
– 1/3 cup (40 g) cornstarch
– 8 ounces (225 g) broccoli (cut into medium florets)
– 1 teaspoon (5 ml) vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon (5 ml) salt

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Instructions

Warm several inches of neutral oil in a small saucepan to a depth that can completely cover a shrimp. The specified amount of oil may vary between 3 to 4 cups. Once the oil temperature reaches 325°F/160°C, immerse the walnut halves and cook them for roughly 4 minutes, until they achieve a golden-brown hue. Adjust the toasting level to your preference, as the final 30 to 60 seconds can make a noticeable difference.
As the oil heats, combine water, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt in a small pot over low heat to create a simple syrup. Stir occasionally for 3 to 5 minutes. When the walnuts are ready, retrieve them with a slotted spoon, allowing excess oil to drain, and transfer them to the saucepan with the simple syrup.
Continue mixing the walnuts with the syrup over medium-low heat until the liquid evaporates and the walnuts are thoroughly coated with a hard candy layer. Ensure the coating is thin and crunchy. Once done, move the walnuts to a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them out to prevent sticking.
In a small bowl, blend mayonnaise, sweetened condensed milk, rice vinegar, honey (if using), and salt until smooth. Set this sauce aside at room temperature.
Prepare the shrimp by making deeper cuts along their backs for better coating and shape during frying.
Lightly dust the shrimp with cornstarch and set aside, keeping extra cornstarch nearby for a second coating before frying.
Boil water in a pot, adding salt and oil. Blanch the broccoli for 30 seconds, then immediately transfer it to cold water to halt cooking. After 10 to 15 seconds, drain in a colander. Arrange the broccoli around the edge of a serving dish, ensuring it remains warm by cooking it just before frying the shrimp.
Increase the oil temperature to 350°F/175°C and re-dust the shrimp with cornstarch, as it may have absorbed some from the initial coating. Carefully place the shrimp into the hot oil one by one, maintaining quick succession. Depending on your pot size, fry in batches to avoid shrimp sticking and ensure even cooking.
Cook the shrimp until they turn golden brown, approximately 2 to 3 minutes, gently moving them in the oil for uniform frying, while being cautious of oil splatter.
Move the fried shrimp to a large stainless steel bowl. Once all shrimp are cooked, pour the creamy sauce over them and gently toss to ensure they are well-coated. This should be done swiftly.
Arrange the shrimp on the broccoli-lined plate and garnish with the candied walnuts. Serve immediately.

Notes

Ensure the shrimp is crispy by making deep cuts along the backs before coating with cornstarch.
Enhance the sauce by adding honey to the mixture of mayonnaise, sweetened condensed milk, rice vinegar, and salt.
Maintain a consistent oil temperature of 350°F/175°C for perfectly cooked, golden-brown shrimp.

Mastering Walnut Shrimp

Fundamentals

To create a memorable Walnut Shrimp dish, start with quality ingredients. The shrimp should be large and fresh, ensuring they remain juicy and flavorful after frying. The walnuts add a sweet, nutty crunch that complements the shrimp beautifully. Fry them until golden brown, allowing their natural oils to enhance the dish.

Creating the perfect simple syrup is crucial for achieving the ideal candy coating on the walnuts. Combine granulated sugar, water, and a pinch of salt, stirring gently over low heat. This syrup not only sweetens the walnuts but also forms a thin, crunchy layer that elevates the dish’s texture.

Preparation/setup

Begin by preparing the shrimp. Peel, devein, and make deeper cuts along their backs. This preparation allows the shrimp to hold the cornstarch better, ensuring a crisp finish. Lightly dust the shrimp with cornstarch, keeping extra on hand for a second coating.

Heat several inches of neutral oil in a small saucepan. Once the oil reaches 325°F/160°C, fry the walnuts until they are golden brown. Transfer them to a parchment-lined baking sheet to cool and crisp up. Meanwhile, prepare the sauce by blending mayonnaise, sweetened condensed milk, rice vinegar, honey, and salt. Set aside until needed.

Crafting the Perfect Dish

Technique

Frying the shrimp requires precision and care. Increase the oil temperature to 350°F/175°C before adding the shrimp. Re-dust them with cornstarch to ensure a crispy coating. Fry in batches to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. Each shrimp should achieve a golden hue in about 2 to 3 minutes.

After frying, immediately transfer the shrimp to a large stainless steel bowl. Pour the creamy sauce over them, tossing gently to coat. This step is crucial for infusing the shrimp with rich flavor while maintaining their crispy texture.

Tips/tricks

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of honey to the sauce. It enhances the sweetness and balances the rich flavors. Additionally, ensure the walnuts are spaced out on the baking sheet to prevent sticking, allowing them to cool and harden properly.

Blanch the broccoli just before frying the shrimp. This timing ensures the broccoli remains warm when served. Use a colander to quickly transfer the blanched broccoli to cold water, halting the cooking process and preserving its vibrant color.

Elevating Your Walnut Shrimp

Perfecting results

Achieving the perfect balance of flavors and textures in Walnut Shrimp requires attention to detail. Ensure the oil is at the correct temperature before frying both the walnuts and the shrimp. Properly heated oil helps achieve the desired crispiness without absorbing excess oil.

When coating the shrimp with the sauce, do so quickly to prevent them from losing their crispness. The sauce should be smooth and well-blended, adding a luscious layer of flavor without overpowering the delicate shrimp.

Troubleshooting/variations

If your walnuts aren’t as crunchy as desired, try extending their frying time by a few seconds. Keep a close eye on them to avoid burning. For a variation, consider adding a dash of spice to the sauce or experimenting with different nuts for a unique twist on the classic.

If you’re looking for more seafood inspiration, check out this Honey Garlic Shrimp Pasta or explore the flavors of Shrimp and Asparagus Stir Fry for a delightful twist.

Serving and Enjoying Your Creation

Serving/presentation

Arrange the cooked shrimp on a serving platter lined with broccoli florets. This presentation not only enhances the dish’s visual appeal but also provides a healthy, fresh contrast to the indulgent shrimp. Garnish with the candied walnuts, adding a touch of elegance to the final dish.

The vibrant colors and textures make Walnut Shrimp a stunning centerpiece for any meal. This dish pairs well with a refreshing salad or a side of rice, allowing the shrimp’s flavors to shine.

Pairings/storage

To complement Walnut Shrimp, consider serving it alongside a light, crisp side dish. For storage, keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain the shrimp’s crispiness, reheat them in the oven rather than the microwave.

For more shrimp-inspired dishes, you might enjoy the Spicy Garlic Shrimp Noodles or a comforting Cinnamon Walnut Roll to round out your meal.

Conclusion

Walnut Shrimp is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that celebrates the best of seafood dining. Its crispy, golden shrimp and sweet, crunchy walnuts make each bite an indulgent experience. By following these steps, you can create a dish that impresses with both its taste and presentation.

The simplicity of the ingredients paired with the careful preparation results in a dish that is both elegant and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply indulging in a seafood feast at home, Walnut Shrimp is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.

For more seafood delights, explore the flavors of an Orange Shrimp Recipe or enjoy a warm bowl of Shrimp Ramen for added inspiration.