Description
This honey walnut shrimp recipe with Orange Zest Glaze transforms simple ingredients into an impressive, easy dinner that rivals restaurant takeout. It’s a perfect family-friendly option when craving something hearty and delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
- 1 cup walnuts, halves or pieces
- 0.5 cup honey
- 1 large orange, zest and juice
- 0.5 cup mayonnaise (full-fat or light)
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 0.5 cup oil for frying (vegetable, canola, grapeseed, or avocado)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon water
Instructions
- Prep The Shrimp: Gently pat the peeled, deveined shrimp very dry with paper towels; this is key for crispiness! Toss them in a medium bowl with 3 tablespoons (45g) of cornstarch until evenly coated, making sure each piece looks dusty, not wet.
- Fry The Shrimp: Heat 0.5 cup (120ml) of oil in a 10-inch skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering (around 350F / 175C). Carefully add shrimp in a single layer without overcrowding the pan. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through, turning opaque. (If your oil isn’t hot enough, the shrimp can absorb too much oil; ensure a consistent sizzle for best results.)
- Candy The Walnuts: In a small saucepan, combine 2 tablespoons (30ml) honey, 2 tablespoons (30g) sugar, and 1 tablespoon (15ml) water. Bring to a simmer over medium heat until bubbly. Add 1 cup (100g) walnuts and stir constantly for 2-3 minutes until they’re caramelized and coated, looking glossy and slightly sticky. Immediately spread them on parchment paper to cool and harden.
- Craft The Orange Zest Glaze: In a clean bowl, whisk together 0.5 cup (120ml) mayonnaise, 0.25 cup (60ml) honey, the zest and juice of one orange, and 1 teaspoon (5ml) white vinegar until completely smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust for your desired sweet-tangy balance; it should be vibrant and rich.
- Combine And Serve: Once the shrimp are fried and walnuts are candied, gently toss them together in a large bowl with the Orange Zest Glaze. Ensure everything is well coated with that luscious, tangy sauce. Serve immediately while the shrimp is warm and the walnuts are crunchy for the ultimate honey walnut shrimp recipe Orange Zest Glaze experience.
Notes
Do not overcook the shrimp; they turn rubbery quickly and lose their tender texture. When candying walnuts, stir constantly so they’re evenly coated and don’t clump, then spread them quickly to cool. Whisk the Orange Zest Glaze thoroughly to achieve a smooth, velvety texture. For dietary needs, use quality vegan mayonnaise, less honey or sugar substitutes for candying, or a blend of whole wheat flour with cornstarch for a heartier shrimp coating. Fresh, ripe oranges yield the best zest and juiciness for the glaze. Keep frozen shrimp handy for spontaneous meals.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying, Stovetop
- Cuisine: Chinese-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 200g)
- Calories: 550 calories
- Sugar: 35 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Fat: 35 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 22 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 180 mg
Keywords: easy dinner, family-friendly, honey walnut shrimp, orange zest, crispy shrimp, quick meal, takeout at home, weeknight dinner