Best Walnut Shrimp Recipe: Easy, Delicious And Perfect For Any Occasion

Walnut Shrimp recipe, a beloved classic, tantalizes taste buds with its unique combination of textures and flavors. Crispy bites of juicy shrimp, generously coated in a sweet and savory glaze, mingle with the delightful crunch of toasted walnuts. While often enjoyed at restaurants, this dish is surprisingly easy to recreate at home with this comprehensive recipe!

Demystifying The Recipe: Your Guide To Perfect Walnut Shrimp

Ingredients:

For The Shrimp:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 cup vegetable oil for frying

For The Sauce:

• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch, mixed with 2 tablespoons water
• Pinch of ginger (grated)
• Pinch of garlic powder

For The Walnuts:

• 1/2 cup walnuts, toasted and roughly chopped

Instructions For Walnut Shrimp Recipe:

• Prep the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry and toss them in cornstarch until lightly coated. Dip them in the beaten egg, ensuring even coating.
• Fry the Shrimp: Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the shrimp in batches for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on paper towels.
• Make the Sauce: In a separate pan, combine all sauce ingredients except the cornstarch slurry. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2 minutes. Add the cornstarch slurry and cook until thickened.
• Assemble the Dish: Toss the cooked shrimp in the sauce, ensuring they are well coated. Garnish with toasted walnuts and enjoy immediately.

Pro Tips For Restaurant-Worthy Results:

• Temperature Matters: Ensure the oil is hot enough (around 350°F) for crispy shrimp without burning.
• Don’t Crowd the Pan: Fry the shrimp in batches to avoid lowering the oil temperature and hindering crispness.
• Flavor Variations: Adjust the sauce sweetness to your preference by adding more or less honey. Spice it up with a pinch of chili flakes.
• Presentation Perfection: Drizzle additional sauce over the plated dish and garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or chives for an extra touch.

Beyond The Basics: Exploring Walnut Shrimp Variations:

• Honey Sesame Shrimp: Drizzle the dish with sesame oil and sprinkle with sesame seeds before serving.
• Spicy Walnut Shrimp: Add a dollop of sriracha or chili paste to the sauce for a kick.
• Mango Walnut Shrimp: Include diced fresh mango into the sauce for a sweet and tangy twist.
• Baked Walnut Shrimp: For a healthier option, bake the shrimp at 400°F for 10-12 minutes instead of frying.

Conclusion – With this recipe and its variations, you hold the key to creating restaurant-quality Walnut Shrimp in the comfort of your own kitchen. Experiment, customize, and impress your loved ones with this delicious and versatile dish. Enjoy the sweet, savory, and crunchy symphony of flavors in every bite!

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?

A: Yes, thaw frozen shrimp completely before using. Adjust cooking time as needed.

Q: What can I substitute the walnuts with?

A: Pecans or cashews can be used for a similar crunch.