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To create a memorable Sweet and Crunchy Honey Walnut Shrimp, it is crucial to understand the role of each ingredient. The interplay of flavors and textures is what makes this dish stand out, and each component contributes significantly to the overall experience.

Honey Walnut Shrimp

Discover the art of cooking with Sweet and Crunchy Honey Walnut Shrimp, a dish that brilliantly combines juicy shrimp with crunchy, caramelized walnuts in a creamy, sweet sauce. Perfect for impressing guests or treating your family, this delightful recipe originates from Chinese-American cuisine and is as visually stunning as it is delicious. Explore the step-by-step preparation tips that ensure crispy shrimp and a mouthwatering honey sauce, making your culinary dreams a reality. Dive into the flavors and textures of this unforgettable dish!
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Ingredients
  

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

1 cup walnuts

1 cup cornstarch

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 cup mayonnaise

1/4 cup honey

1 tablespoon sweetened condensed milk

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)

2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)

Sesame seeds (for garnish, optional)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Walnuts: In a medium-sized saucepan, add 1 cup of walnuts along with enough granulated sugar to coat them (approximately 1 cup). Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir constantly. Continue stirring for about 2-3 minutes until the sugar melts and adheres to the walnuts, creating a glossy caramelized coating. Once the walnuts turn golden brown, promptly remove the saucepan from heat. Spread the walnuts out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to cool completely.

    Prepare the Shrimp: In a mixing bowl, combine the cornstarch, salt, and black pepper. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the cornstarch mixture. This step is crucial for achieving a crispy texture after frying.

      Make the Honey Sauce: In another bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, honey, sweetened condensed milk, and fresh lemon juice until the mixture is smooth and well-blended. Set this sauce aside, allowing the flavors to meld together.

        Heat the Oil: In a deep skillet or frying pan, pour in the vegetable oil and heat it over medium-high heat. To ensure the oil is ready for frying, test it by dropping a small amount of cornstarch into the oil; it should immediately sizzle.

          Fry the Shrimp: Carefully add the coated shrimp to the hot oil in small batches, avoiding overcrowding the pan. Fry the shrimp for 2-3 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and are fully cooked. Once done, remove them using a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.

            Combine the Shrimp and Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the crispy, cooked shrimp with the prepared honey sauce. Gently toss the shrimp to ensure they are thoroughly coated with the sauce.

              Add the Walnuts: Fold in the caramelized walnuts into the shrimp mixture, being careful to maintain their shape and avoid breaking them apart too much.

                Serve: Transfer the sweet and crunchy honey walnut shrimp to a beautiful serving platter. Garnish with thinly sliced green onions and a sprinkling of sesame seeds, if desired. Serve immediately alongside steamed rice or as a delightful appetizer.

                  Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes | Servings: 4

                    - Presentation Tips: For an elegant touch, consider serving the shrimp in individual bowls or on a wooden board, scattered with extra walnuts and garnished with fresh herbs. This adds both color and vibrancy to the dish.