Walnut Shrimp – Culinary Chase
When it comes to a culinary adventure, few dishes can match the delightful juxtaposition of savory and sweet you find in Walnut Shrimp. This dish, inspired by Chinese cuisine and enjoyed in various forms around the world, brings the best of both worlds to your table.
Picture this: tender shrimp coated in a creamy sauce, paired with crunchy, sweet candied walnuts, and served over a fluffy bed of rice or alongside crispy vegetables. What’s not to love?
What to Pair with Walnut Shrimp
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of the recipe, let’s explore some awesome pairing options that elevate the entire meal. A cold, refreshing cucumber salad can add a delightful zing while balancing the richness of the shrimp. If you want to explore some heat, a spicy Szechuan vegetable stir-fry may be right up your alley. For those looking for crunch, consider a sesame-soy slaw.
And, of course, jasmine rice or stir-fried noodles provide the perfect canvas for soaking up that luscious sweet creamy sauce. This dish is so versatile; you’ll want to explore all the delectable options!
Why This Recipe Rocks
Let’s chat about something crucial: why is Walnut Shrimp a must-try? First off, the combination of flavors and textures is impressive. You get the creamy, slightly sweet taste of the sauce mingling with the satisfying crunch of the walnuts, and the freshness of shrimp is hard to resist. From a nutritional standpoint, shrimp is a great source of lean protein, while walnuts are rich in healthy fats and nutrients. This recipe delivers not just on taste but also on health.
As a food enthusiast and registered dietitian, I’ve played around with the ingredients countless times. Each component serves a purpose and contributes to the balance of flavors. If you’re itching to create something memorable for your next gathering or just want a cozy night in with an exceptional dish, Walnut Shrimp is your answer.
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Let’s Talk Ingredients
In this recipe, each ingredient plays a role that’s just as important as the last. Here’s what you’ll need to capture that perfect essence of Walnut Shrimp:
- 1 pound (450 g) raw shrimp, peeled and deveined: Look for the freshest shrimp you can find. I often prefer to buy them frozen to maintain peak freshness until I’m ready to use them.
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten: This will help bind the shrimp in that delightful coating before frying.
- 1 tablespoon cold water: A dash of water added to the egg ensures a smooth consistency.
- ½ cup cornstarch or potato starch: This is the secret to achieving that wonderfully crispy coating. Both options are excellent; I often switch between them based on availability.
- 1 teaspoon fine sea salt & ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper: Elevates flavors significantly. Don’t skip these!
Candied Walnuts
- 1 cup walnut halves, lightly toasted: Walnuts add that sweet crunch we crave in this dish. Lightly toasting them enhances their natural flavor.
- ¼ cup raw honey: This is what makes the walnuts sweet and irresistible. Use good-quality honey for the best results.
- 6 tablespoons filtered water: Balances the sweetness and helps in creating a lovely syrup.
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional): A hint of spice can add warmth, but it’s completely optional.
Sweet Creamy Sauce
- ½ cup mayonnaise: Provides a rich base for our sauce.
- 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt: This adds a tangy note, making the sauce creamy yet not overly rich.
- ¼ cup wildflower honey (or any mild honey): For that sweet finish.
- ½ teaspoon freshly grated lime zest (optional): A zing of freshness to round out the flavors perfectly.
How to Make Walnut Shrimp
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Trust me; having everything in its place makes the process so much easier and more enjoyable.
Step 2: Candied Walnuts
Let’s kick off with the candied walnuts. In a saucepan, combine the raw honey and filtered water over medium heat. Stir until the honey dissolves.
- Tip: Make sure to avoid cooking at too high a temperature, as it can cause the honey to burn. Once dissolved, stir in the toasted walnuts to coat them evenly.
Step 3: Coating the Shrimp
In a separate bowl, beat the egg with a tablespoon of cold water.
- Next, add the peeled and deveined shrimp, coating them thoroughly. Now, this is where the fun begins! Toss the egg-coated shrimp in the cornstarch or potato starch, shaking off any excess.
Step 4: Frying the Shrimp
Heat oil in a deep skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Once the oil’s shimmering, carefully add the coated shrimp in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry until golden brown — about 2-3 minutes on each side.
- Note: Ensure the shrimp are cooked through but still tender. They’ll continue cooking a bit more once you remove them from the oil.
Step 5: Make the Sweet Creamy Sauce
While your shrimp is frying, let’s whip up that sweet creamy sauce. In a bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, wildflower honey, and lime zest.
- Stir until all ingredients are combined, and adjust sweetness to your liking. If you want a bit more kick, squeeze a bit of fresh lime juice to balance things out!
Step 6: Combine It All!
In a large mixing bowl, combine the fried shrimp with the candied walnuts.
- Drizzle your sweet creamy sauce over the top and gently toss to coat everything evenly.
Step 7: Serve It Up
Finally, serve your Walnut Shrimp over rice or with a side of your favorite veggies.
- Enjoy the crunch of the walnuts and the creamy shrimp together. It’s an experience worth sharing!
Nutrition Information
Recipe Notes
- Shrimp: Fresh shrimp are ideal; frozen shrimp can be used if thawed properly.
- Cornstarch vs. Potato Starch: Both achieve a great crunch, but potato starch can give an even more delicate texture.
- Honey: Adjust the amount based on your preference for sweetness. Different honeys will have varying flavor profiles.
- Greek Yogurt: For a lighter version, consider using low-fat or non-fat Greek yogurt.
Recipe Variations
Feel free to experiment with Walnut Shrimp! Here are some ideas:
- Ginger Addition: Include grated fresh ginger in the sauce for a spicy twist.
- Lemon Zest: Swap lime zest for lemon zest for a different flavor profile.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chicken for heat.
- Coconut Milk Sauce: Use coconut milk instead of mayo and yogurt for a tropical twist.
Walnut Shrimp
Equipment
- Bowls
Ingredients
- 1 pound 450 g raw shrimp, peeled and deveined: Look for the freshest shrimp you can find. I often prefer to buy them frozen to maintain peak freshness until I’m ready to use them.
- 1 large egg lightly beaten: This will help bind the shrimp in that delightful coating before frying.
- 1 tablespoon cold water: A dash of water added to the egg ensures a smooth consistency.
- ½ cup cornstarch or potato starch: This is the secret to achieving that wonderfully crispy coating. Both options are excellent; I often switch between them based on availability.
- 1 teaspoon fine sea salt & ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper: Elevates flavors significantly. Don’t skip these!
Candied Walnuts
- 1 cup walnut halves lightly toasted: Walnuts add that sweet crunch we crave in this dish. Lightly toasting them enhances their natural flavor.
- ¼ cup raw honey: This is what makes the walnuts sweet and irresistible. Use good-quality honey for the best results.
- 6 tablespoons filtered water: Balances the sweetness and helps in creating a lovely syrup.
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon optional: A hint of spice can add warmth, but it’s completely optional.
Sweet Creamy Sauce
- ½ cup mayonnaise: Provides a rich base for our sauce.
- 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt: This adds a tangy note making the sauce creamy yet not overly rich.
- ¼ cup wildflower honey or any mild honey: For that sweet finish.
- ½ teaspoon freshly grated lime zest optional: A zing of freshness to round out the flavors perfectly.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Start by gathering all your ingredients. Trust me; having everything in its place makes the process so much easier and more enjoyable.
Step 2: Candied Walnuts
- Let’s kick off with the candied walnuts. In a saucepan, combine the raw honey and filtered water over medium heat. Stir until the honey dissolves.
- Tip: Make sure to avoid cooking at too high a temperature, as it can cause the honey to burn. Once dissolved, stir in the toasted walnuts to coat them evenly.
Step 3: Coating the Shrimp
- In a separate bowl, beat the egg with a tablespoon of cold water.
- Next, add the peeled and deveined shrimp, coating them thoroughly. Now, this is where the fun begins! Toss the egg-coated shrimp in the cornstarch or potato starch, shaking off any excess.
Step 4: Frying the Shrimp
- Heat oil in a deep skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Once the oil’s shimmering, carefully add the coated shrimp in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry until golden brown — about 2-3 minutes on each side.
- Note: Ensure the shrimp are cooked through but still tender. They’ll continue cooking a bit more once you remove them from the oil.
Step 5: Make the Sweet Creamy Sauce
- While your shrimp is frying, let’s whip up that sweet creamy sauce. In a bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, wildflower honey, and lime zest.
- Stir until all ingredients are combined, and adjust sweetness to your liking. If you want a bit more kick, squeeze a bit of fresh lime juice to balance things out!
Step 6: Combine It All!
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the fried shrimp with the candied walnuts.
- Drizzle your sweet creamy sauce over the top and gently toss to coat everything evenly.
Step 7: Serve It Up
- Finally, serve your Walnut Shrimp over rice or with a side of your favorite veggies.
- Enjoy the crunch of the walnuts and the creamy shrimp together. It’s an experience worth sharing!
Notes
- Shrimp: Fresh shrimp are ideal; frozen shrimp can be used if thawed properly.
- Cornstarch vs. Potato Starch: Both achieve a great crunch, but potato starch can give an even more delicate texture.
- Honey: Adjust the amount based on your preference for sweetness. Different honeys will have varying flavor profiles.
- Greek Yogurt: For a lighter version, consider using low-fat or non-fat Greek yogurt.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
2. What’s the best oil for frying shrimp?
I recommend using oils with high smoke points, such as canola oil or peanut oil, to achieve that perfect crispiness.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just remember, the coating may lose some crispiness.
4. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Use cornstarch, and ensure that your sauces are gluten-free.
5. Can I omit the walnuts?
You can certainly go nut-free! The dish will still taste amazing without them.
6. What sides go well with Walnut Shrimp?
Consider stir-fried vegetables, steamed rice, or a fresh garden salad to complement the dish.
Conclusion
Walnut Shrimp isn’t just a dish; it’s an experience filled with layers of flavor, crunch, and tenderness. The versatility of this recipe opens up endless possibilities for dinner parties or cozy weeknights. Plus, it’s packed with nutrition, making it a fantastic addition to your culinary repertoire.
Cooking is not just about creating meals; it’s about sharing experiences and creating joy. With every bite of Walnut Shrimp, you’re not only enjoying flavors but also the love and care that went into making it. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or savoring it solo, this dish allows all palates to appreciate the blend of savory and sweet, the crunch of walnuts, and the lightness of shrimp. I hope you’ll discover just how delightful this perfect balance can be. Enjoy cooking!