Easy Walnut Shrimp Recipe
In the bustling world of culinary delights, the easy walnut shrimp recipe holds its own as a delightful blend of sweet and savory notes, making it an absolute crowd-pleaser. With its succulent shrimp coated in a creamy a slightly sweet sauce, this dish never fails to impress both family and friends alike. The balance of flavors and the crunch of walnuts add an unforgettable texture to every bite, making it a staple for dinner parties and casual meals.
I still remember the first time my grandmother made this dish for our family reunion. The kitchen was filled with laughter and the heavenly aroma of sizzling shrimp. It was the highlight of our gathering, and ever since, this recipe has been passed down the generations with unwavering affection. A shared love for this exquisite dish binds our family together, making every get-together even more special.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Not only is this recipe delightfully easy to make, but it also brings restaurant-quality flavors right to your dining table. The creamy sauce perfectly complements the crunchiness of the walnuts and the tenderness of the shrimp. It’s a quick recipe, perfect for busy weeknights or as an impressive dish for entertaining guests. What makes it truly unique is the balance of textures and flavors that are simply irresistible.
Ingredients Notes
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. You’ll need large shrimp, shelled and deveined, ensuring convenience and reducing preparation time. Opt for fresh broccoli for added texture. Use store-bought unsweetened condensed milk for the sauce, offering just the right consistency and sweetness. If walnuts are unavailable, pecans can be a good substitute, ensuring you don’t miss out on the crunchy element.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Begin by toasting the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat until lightly browned and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Stir frequently to avoid burning.
Step 2
In a separate bowl, combine the unsweetened condensed milk and mayonnaise, whisking until smooth and set aside. This mixture is the base for the creamy sauce.
Step 3
Next, preheat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat, add a drizzle of oil, and sauté the shrimp until they turn pink and opaque, approximately 2-3 minutes per side. Ensure not to overcrowd the pan for even cooking.
Step 4
Remove the shrimp from the skillet and pour the creamy sauce mixture into the same pan. Cook the sauce over low heat until it thickens slightly, then return the shrimp to the skillet, tossing to coat them evenly in the sauce.
Step 5
Finish the dish by sprinkling the toasted walnuts on top and serve it hot for the best experience of flavors and textures.
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Storage Options
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. If you wish to freeze, do so without the sauce, as it may separate upon reheating. To reheat, allow to thaw in the refrigerator overnight and use a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Variations & Substitutions
For a healthier twist, swap the sugar in the sauce with a natural sweetener like honey or agave. Those with nut allergies can replace walnuts with toasted pumpkin seeds or omit entirely. Adding chopped bell peppers or snow peas can enhance the dish’s nutritional value and color palette.
Serving Suggestions
This delectable dish pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice, which soaks up the wonderful sauce. It’s also delicious alongside stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal. Consider serving it at a festive dinner or a cozy family night, where it promises to be the star attraction.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can. Be sure to thaw the shrimp completely in the refrigerator before use. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, ensuring they sear properly in the skillet.
What if I don’t have unsweetened condensed milk?
If you don’t have unsweetened condensed milk, you can use a mixture of heavy cream and a teaspoon of corn syrup as a substitute. This will help achieve a similar creamy texture and sweetness required for the sauce.
How do I make this dish less rich?
To tone down the richness, reduce the amount of mayonnaise in the sauce and replace it with plain Greek yogurt. This will retain the creamy texture while adding a subtle tanginess that complements the dish’s flavors.
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Easy Walnut Shrimp Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs shrimp peeled and deveined
- 1 cup walnuts halved
- 4 tablespoons sugar
- 0.5 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice freshly squeezed
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 4 cups vegetable oil for frying
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- In a small saucepan, combine the walnuts and sugar with enough water to cover, and bring to a boil. Cook until sugar is dissolved and walnuts are candied, about 5 minutes.
- Drain and spread the walnuts on a baking sheet to dry.
- In a bowl, mix the mayonnaise, honey, and lemon juice until smooth. Set aside.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
- Season the shrimp with salt and pepper, then dredge each shrimp in cornstarch, shaking off the excess.
- Fry the shrimp in batches in the hot oil until golden and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
- In a large bowl, toss the cooked shrimp with the mayonnaise sauce until evenly coated.
- Sprinkle the candied walnuts over the shrimp and serve immediately.
Notes
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