Honey Walnut Shrimp Recipe

The subtle presence of ground white pepper in this honey walnut shrimp recipe contributes to a harmonious balance of sweet, savory, and umami flavors that will leave you wanting more!

Other Ingredients:

In the recipe for Honey Walnut Shrimp, there are several ingredients that play a crucial role in bringing out the unique flavors and textures of this popular Chinese-American dish. Here’s a breakdown of the key ingredients:

**Main Ingredients:**

• Honey: This sweetener is the star of the show in Honey Walnut Shrimp, adding a rich, caramel-like flavor to the sauce.

• Shrimp: Fresh and succulent shrimp are the protein of choice for this recipe. You can use either peeled and deveined large shrimp or smaller ones like jumbo or extra-large.

• Walnuts: Chopped walnuts add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to the dish. Make sure to toast them lightly before using for enhanced flavor.

**Other Ingredients:**

• Garlic: Minced garlic adds depth and aroma to the sauce, so don’t skimp on this ingredient!

• Scallions or green onions: Chopped scallions add a pungent flavor and crunchy texture to the dish. You can use either the white or green parts.

• Cornstarch: This starchy powder helps thicken the sauce, making it richer and more velvety.

• Vegetable oil: Used for frying the walnuts and cooking the garlic, this neutral-tasting oil won’t interfere with the flavors of the dish.

• Chinese five-spice powder (optional): This aromatic spice blend adds a unique flavor dimension to the sauce. It’s optional, but recommended for authentic Chinese taste.

**Garnishes:**

• Fresh cilantro or scallions: Chopped cilantro or scallions make great garnishes for this dish, adding a pop of color and freshness to the presentation.

* 1/2 cup allpurpose flour

All-purpose flour is a staple ingredient used to coat and prepare various types of food, including the shrimp in our Honey Walnut Shrimp recipe.

In this specific recipe, 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour serves as the primary coating agent for the shrimp.

Here are some key characteristics of all-purpose flour that make it an ideal choice for this recipe:

• Neutral flavor: All-purpose flour has a neutral taste profile that won’t affect the overall flavor of the dish. This allows the sweetness of the honey and the crunch of the walnuts to shine through.

• Bland texture: The fine, powdery texture of all-purpose flour helps to create a smooth, even coating on the shrimp without adding any extraneous flavors or textures.

• Easy to work with: All-purpose flour is relatively easy to mix and blend with other ingredients, making it an ideal choice for coating delicate foods like shrimp.

When using all-purpose flour in our Honey Walnut Shrimp recipe, be sure to:

1. Dust the shrimp lightly with the flour before coating them in the honey and walnut mixture. This helps to prevent the sauce from pooling on the surface of the shrimp.

2. Don’t overcoat the shrimp with the flour, as this can make them too dense and heavy. A light dusting is all that’s needed to create a smooth, even coating.

In summary, all-purpose flour plays an important role in our Honey Walnut Shrimp recipe by providing a neutral flavor and texture that complements the other ingredients without overpowering them.

* 1/4 cup water

To make this delicious Honey Walnut Shrimp recipe, you’ll need a few key ingredients. One of these essential elements is water, which will help to create the perfect sauce.

The amount needed for our water ingredient is a modest 1/4 cup. This may seem like a small quantity, but it plays a significant role in achieving the ideal balance and consistency in our dish.

So, make sure you have this measurement of water on hand as you continue to prepare your Honey Walnut Shrimp. The quality of the ingredients will ultimately impact the flavor and texture of your finished product, so choose wisely!

* 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

The ingredient “2 tablespoons vegetable oil” plays a crucial role in the preparation of the Honey Walnut Shrimp Recipe. Vegetable oil is used as a cooking medium to sauté and brown the shrimp, ensuring they are cooked evenly and have a nice texture.

Some possible reasons for choosing vegetable oil over other oils include its high smoke point and neutral flavor. This allows it to withstand high temperatures without breaking down or imparting any unwanted flavors to the dish.

Here are some key characteristics of vegetable oil that make it suitable for cooking:

• High smoke point: Vegetable oil has a high smoke point, meaning it can be heated to high temperatures without smoking or burning. This makes it ideal for sautéing and frying foods.
• Neutral flavor: Vegetable oil has a neutral flavor profile, which won’t overpower the other ingredients in the Honey Walnut Shrimp Recipe.
• Stable at room temperature: Vegetable oil remains stable at room temperature, making it easy to store and transport.

In addition to its practical uses, vegetable oil can also add a subtle sheen to the cooked shrimp. This is because oil helps to enhance the appearance of the dish by adding moisture and shine to the food.

* 2 cloves garlic, minced

When it comes to ingredients for a dish like Honey Walnut Shrimp, which is typically a sweet and savory Chinese-American dessert-like entree, there are several key components that work together to create its signature flavor and texture.

The ingredient list can vary depending on the recipe or personal preferences, but common staples include:

• Shrimp: peeled and deveined white or tiger shrimp are commonly used
• Honey: a sweetener that adds a rich, caramel-like flavor to the dish
• Walnuts: chopped walnuts provide a crunchy texture and nutty flavor
• Ginger: minced fresh ginger is often used for its spicy and aromatic properties
• Garlic: minced garlic is a fundamental ingredient in many Asian-inspired dishes, including the Honey Walnut Shrimp
• Cornstarch: used as a thickening agent to create a smooth and velvety sauce
• Egg whites or corn syrup: added to help balance the sweetness of the honey and thicken the sauce
• Oyster sauce (optional): adds depth and umami flavor to the dish, but is not essential for non-seafood options
• Vegetable oil or butter: used for sautéing the shrimp and creating a crispy texture
• Salt and pepper: added to taste to balance out the flavors

The specific quantity of ingredients, including the 2 cloves of minced garlic, can vary depending on personal preference and the desired intensity of flavor. However, in general:

• The 2 cloves of garlic should be finely minced to release their oils and flavor compounds.

• When sautéing the shrimp, it’s best to use a neutral oil like vegetable or canola oil to prevent overpowering the delicate flavor of the seafood.

• The ratio of honey to other ingredients should be balanced to avoid making the dish too sweet. A general rule of thumb is to use 1-2 tablespoons of honey per pound of shrimp.

By combining these ingredients in the right proportions and cooking them with care, you can create a delicious Honey Walnut Shrimp Recipe that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates!

* 2 green onions, chopped

The ingredients for this recipe call for two green onions, which will be chopped as part of the preparation process.

Chopped green onions are a key component in many Asian-inspired dishes and add a fresh flavor to the honey walnut shrimp.

To chop the green onions, begin by trimming the ends off each onion and removing any wilted or damaged leaves.

Cut the remaining portion of each onion in half lengthwise and separate the white and green parts of the onion.

Place the white part of one onion on a cutting board and slice it thinly into small pieces, using a sharp knife to avoid tearing the onions.

Then, cut the green top of the other onion into thin slices as well, and place both sets of chopped green onion in a small bowl for later use in the recipe.

* 1 tablespoon sesame seeds

The honey walnut shrimp recipe requires a specific combination of ingredients to achieve the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

One of the key ingredients in this dish is **sesame seeds**. Specifically, you will need 1 tablespoon of sesame seeds, which will provide a nutty flavor and crunchy texture to the dish.

Sesame seeds are a type of millet seed that comes from the Sesamum indicum plant. They are rich in nutrients, including protein, fiber, and various minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and iron.

The sesame seeds will be used to garnish the shrimp dish and add a touch of elegance to its presentation. To prepare them, simply toast the sesame seeds in a dry pan over low heat until they are lightly browned and fragrant.

This process enhances their nutty flavor and aroma, making them a delicious addition to the honey walnut shrimp recipe.

* Honey (see below for recommended brands)

Honey, often referred to as nature’s sweetener, plays a vital role in various recipes, including the popular Honey Walnut Shrimp dish. It serves multiple purposes in this recipe, acting not only as a sweet ingredient but also as a thickening agent and a flavor enhancer.

The type of honey used can greatly impact the overall taste and quality of the final product. Some recommended brands include Manuka Honey, Acacia Honey, and Clover Honey, each offering unique flavor profiles and potential health benefits.

Manuka Honey, for instance, has antimicrobial properties due to the presence of methylglyoxal, a compound that contributes to its distinct earthy flavor. It’s often used in combination with other ingredients to create a balanced sweetness level without overpowering the dish.

Acacia Honey is another option with a delicate floral and slightly sweet taste. Its mild flavor makes it an excellent choice for those seeking a more subtle honey note in their cooking. Acacia Honey pairs well with nuts, as seen in the Honey Walnut Shrimp recipe.

Clover Honey has a light, floral, and slightly sweet flavor profile that complements a wide variety of dishes without overpowering them. It’s a popular choice for baking due to its mild sweetness level and is also commonly used in beverages like tea and coffee.

Instructions

Preparing the Shrimp:

To prepare the shrimp for the Honey Walnut Shrimp recipe, follow these steps:

Step 1: Clean and Peel the Shrimp

• Rinse the shrimp under cold water to remove any impurities or debris.
• Pull off the shells, leaving the tail intact. You can use kitchen shears to make this process easier.
• Devein the shrimp by making a shallow cut along the back of each shell and removing the dark vein that runs through it.

Step 2: Pat Dry with Paper Towels

• Gently pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps the coating adhere to the shrimp better.

Step 3: Season the Shrimp (optional)

• If desired, sprinkle both sides of the shrimp with salt and pepper to enhance flavor.
• You can also add other seasonings like garlic powder or paprika to give the shrimp a distinct taste.

Step 4: Prepare the Coating Mixture (Honey Walnut Sauce)

• In a separate bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and cornstarch until smooth.
• Add in chopped walnuts and mix until well combined.

Step 5: Dip Shrimp in Coating Mixture (Honey Walnut Sauce)

• Dip each prepared shrimp into the honey walnut sauce, coating both sides evenly. Make sure to get some of the walnuts stuck onto the shrimp for added crunch.

Now that your shrimp is prepared and coated with the delicious Honey Walnut Sauce, you can proceed with frying or baking them as directed in the recipe.

* Peel and devein the shrimp, leaving the tails intact.

The process of preparing honey walnut shrimp begins with the preparation of the main ingredient, which is succulent and fresh shrimp. To start this process, it is essential to follow a crucial step in handling these delicate creatures.

To peel and devein the shrimp, leaving the tails intact, we need to carefully separate the shell from the flesh, removing any impurities or shells that may be present.

Here’s a detailed breakdown of this process:

1. Hold each shrimp firmly but gently by the tail end to keep it secure.

2. Locate the shell at the back of the shrimp, where you will see a slight seam or crack.

3. Gently pry the shell away from the flesh, working your way around the body until the entire shell is removed.

4. Rinse the shrimp under cold running water to remove any loose shells or debris.

Next, you will need to devein each shrimp. To do this:

• Hold the peeled and rinsed shrimp firmly by the tail end.

• Locate the dark vein that runs down the center of the back of the shrimp, which is the devained section.

• Gently make a small incision in the center of the back of the shrimp, being careful not to cut too deeply and damage any of the surrounding flesh.

• Using the tip of your finger or a specialized tool, gently pry out the dark vein, working it free from the surrounding flesh.

Once you have peeled and deveined all the shrimp, they are ready for use in your honey walnut shrimp recipe. Be sure to pat them dry with paper towels before adding them to the dish to prevent excess moisture from affecting the overall texture and flavor of the finished product.

* Rinse them under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.

When it comes to preparing ingredients for a dish like Honey Walnut Shrimp, following detailed instructions is crucial to achieve the desired outcome. In this case, one specific step involves rinsing and drying the ingredients.

The instruction in question states: “Rinse them under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.” Let’s break down what this means and why it’s important.

Rinsing Under Cold Water

Rinsing the ingredients, which could include the shrimp, walnuts, or any other components, under cold water serves a few purposes:

• Removes excess dirt and debris
• Helps to remove any impurities or contaminants that may be present on the surface of the ingredients
• Prevents the growth of bacteria, which is particularly important when handling raw seafood like shrimp.

The use of cold water specifically helps to prevent the ingredients from becoming contaminated with waterborne pathogens. This step ensures that your Honey Walnut Shrimp Recipe remains safe to eat and enjoyable for everyone involved.

Pat Dry with Paper Towels

Once you’ve rinsed the ingredients under cold water, it’s essential to pat them dry with paper towels. This serves several purposes:

• Removes excess moisture, which can affect the texture and appearance of the final dish
• Helps to prevent sogginess or stickiness in the ingredients, particularly if they’re delicate like the shrimp
• Ensures that the ingredients are dry enough for proper seasoning and cooking.

When patting dry with paper towels, be gentle to avoid damaging the ingredients. You want to remove excess moisture without applying too much pressure, which could cause the ingredients to become misshapen or bruised.

In summary, rinsing the ingredients under cold water and pat drying them with paper towels are crucial steps in preparing your Honey Walnut Shrimp Recipe. By following these instructions carefully, you’ll be able to achieve a delicious and safe dish that everyone will enjoy.

Cooking the Shrimp:

To cook the shrimp for the Honey Walnut Shrimp recipe, follow these step-by-step instructions.

First, prepare a large bowl filled with ice water to chill the peeled and deveined shrimp immediately after they’re cooked. This will help stop the cooking process and keep them fresh for later use in the recipe.

Next, heat about 1/4 cup of vegetable oil in a medium-sized skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches a temperature of around 350°F (175°C). This temperature is crucial to achieve a perfectly crispy exterior on the shrimp without overcooking them inside.

Carefully place 2-3 cups of peeled and deveined shrimp into the hot oil in a single layer, being mindful not to overcrowd the skillet. Cook for approximately 2-3 minutes per side or until they turn pink and start to flake at the edges.

Using a slotted spoon or skimmer, remove the cooked shrimp from the oil and transfer them directly into the bowl of ice water to stop cooking. Repeat this process with the remaining shrimp in batches if necessary.

Once all the shrimp are cooked and chilled in the ice water bath, drain them thoroughly and set them aside for later use in the Honey Walnut Shrimp recipe.

* Dredge the shrimp in the flour mixture (flour, cornstarch, sugar, salt, black pepper, white pepper).

To prepare the **Honey Walnut Shrimp** dish, it’s essential to start by dredging the shrimp in a carefully prepared flour mixture. This mixture serves as the base for the crust that will give the shrimp its distinctive flavor and texture.

The flour mixture should consist of a combination of flour, cornstarch, sugar, salt, black pepper, and white pepper. These ingredients are crucial in providing the shrimp with both flavor and texture. It’s worth noting that some recipes may include additional ingredients, such as garlic powder or onion powder, but this basic combination will yield a delicious crust.

To dredge the shrimp, place them in a bowl or tray large enough to hold them without overcrowding. In another bowl, mix together the flour mixture until it’s well combined and smooth. Then, one at a time, pick up each shrimp and coat it evenly with the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.

Some tips for dredging the shrimp effectively include:

• Coat the shrimp just before cooking to ensure that the crust adheres properly.
• Don’t overcoat the shrimp with flour mixture, as this can make them heavy and greasy.
• Tap off any excess flour mixture from the shrimp by gently tapping them against a plate or tray.

By following these steps and taking care to coat each shrimp evenly, you’ll be able to achieve a beautiful and delicious crust that complements the sweet honey sauce and crunchy walnuts in the Honey Walnut Shrimp recipe.

* Heat 1/4 cup of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over mediumhigh heat.

When it comes to cooking, following instructions is crucial to achieving success in the kitchen. A recipe like the Honey Walnut Shrimp is a great example of how precise and clear instructions can make all the difference. In this case, we’re given the first instruction: Heat 1/4 cup of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.

At its core, following instructions involves paying attention to three key elements: the action, the object, and the conditions. In our example, the action is “heat,” which implies that we need to apply some form of energy to bring about a change in state. The object being acted upon is the vegetable oil, specifically 1/4 cup of it, which needs to be heated in a wok or large skillet. Finally, there’s the condition under which this action should take place: over medium-high heat.

It’s worth noting that these three elements – action, object, and conditions – work together to create a specific outcome. In our case, heating 1/4 cup of vegetable oil over medium-high heat serves as the foundation for cooking the ingredients in the Honey Walnut Shrimp recipe. The instruction sets the stage for the subsequent steps, where we’ll be adding ingredients and applying further actions to achieve the desired dish.

The importance of clear instructions cannot be overstated, especially when working with a specific cooking technique or ingredient. In the case of using a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat, it’s crucial to understand that the high heat is not only necessary for achieving the correct texture and crispiness in the shrimp but also for developing the flavors and aromas in the dish.

Furthermore, instructions can often reveal the underlying principles and techniques behind a recipe. In our example, heating oil over medium-high heat demonstrates the importance of using the right cooking technique to achieve the desired outcome. This knowledge can then be applied to other recipes, allowing cooks to expand their repertoire and develop their skills.

Overall, following instructions is an essential aspect of cooking that requires attention to detail, understanding of the underlying principles, and practice to execute effectively. By paying close attention to the actions, objects, and conditions outlined in a recipe like Honey Walnut Shrimp, cooks can create delicious dishes that showcase their skills and bring joy to those who taste them.

* Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.

When following a recipe like the **Honey Walnut Shrimp Recipe**, it’s essential to pay close attention to the instructions, as they play a crucial role in achieving the desired outcome. One key step in this recipe is adding garlic, which requires careful consideration of timing and technique.

The instruction to add garlic and cook until fragrant for about 30 seconds indicates that the chef wants the reader to take note of the brief cooking time required to release the aromatic compounds from the garlic. This step is critical in developing the flavors of the dish, as it allows the garlic to infuse its essence into the other ingredients.

When following this instruction, it’s essential to understand that “until fragrant” is not a specific time frame but rather an indication of when the garlic has released its aroma. This can vary depending on personal preference and the intensity of the heat being used. However, as a general guideline, 30 seconds is a good starting point.

It’s also important to note that cooking times may differ depending on the type of stovetop or cooktop being used. For example, a gas stovetop might require slightly shorter cooking times than an electric one. Additionally, the heat level can significantly impact cooking time.

In conclusion, when following the instruction to add garlic and cook until fragrant for about 30 seconds, it’s crucial to be mindful of timing and technique. This brief step is vital in unlocking the flavors of the Honey Walnut Shrimp Recipe, and any variations can result in a different outcome.

* Add the shrimp and stirfry until pink and cooked through, about 23 minutes per side.

When it comes to following instructions, there are several key elements that can make or break a successful outcome. In this case, let’s take the instruction to cook the shrimp until pink and cooked through as an example.

The first step in cooking the shrimp is to add them to a pan with some oil over medium-high heat. Once the pan is hot, the next step would be to stir-fry the shrimp for about 23 minutes on each side, or until they are pink and fully cooked.

Now, it’s worth noting that the time it takes to cook the shrimp may vary depending on several factors such as the size of the shrimp, the heat level of the pan, and even the type of cooking surface being used. However, 23 minutes per side is a good estimate for this particular recipe.

To ensure that the shrimp are cooked evenly and thoroughly, it’s essential to stir-fry them frequently throughout the cooking process. This will help prevent them from burning or overcooking in certain areas.

Another important aspect of following instructions when cooking the shrimp is to pay attention to their color and texture. When they turn pink and feel firm to the touch, they are done. Overcooking can result in tough, rubbery shrimp that are unappetizing to eat.

Finally, it’s crucial to remember that practice makes perfect. Even with precise instructions, cooking can be an art that requires experimentation and patience. Don’t be discouraged if your first attempt doesn’t turn out exactly as expected – simply try again and adjust the recipe accordingly.

In conclusion, following the instruction to cook the shrimp until pink and cooked through requires attention to detail, a bit of practice, and a willingness to adjust the cooking time and technique based on the specific needs of the dish. By doing so, you’ll be able to create delicious and perfectly cooked honey walnut shrimp that will impress even the most discerning palates.

Assembly and Serving

Tossing with Honey and Nuts:

In the realm of cooking, **Assembly** and **Serving**, _Tossing with Honey and Nuts_, play a crucial role in bringing out the flavors and textures of a dish, as exemplified by the popular Honey Walnut Shrimp Recipe.

When it comes to assembling this sweet and savory delight, precision is key. The first step involves preparing the ingredients, which includes marinating the shrimp in a mixture of _cornstarch_, _egg whites_, and seasonings. This process helps to tenderize the shrimp while infusing them with flavor.

Next, the shrimp are then tossed in a wok or large skillet coated with a small amount of oil over medium heat. The key here is to cook the shrimp until they turn pink and are cooked through, without overcooking, which can lead to toughening the texture.

In the meantime, a mixture of _honey_, soy sauce, and garlic**_ is being prepared in a separate pan. This sweet and savory sauce will serve as the dressing for the dish.