Crispy Walnut Shrimp

A popular Chinese takeout dish featuring crispy fried shrimp coated in a creamy, sweet, and tangy sauce with crunchy candied walnuts.
55m4Servings
Nutrition
606kcal
26gProtein
25gCarbs
46gFat
Ingredients
SHRIMP
Peeled Shrimp
417 g
Salt
¼ tsp
Sugar
¼ tsp
White Pepper Powder
¼ tsp
Corn Starch
¼ cup
DRESSING
Mayonnaise
¼ cup
Honey
1 tbsp
Condensed Milk
½ tbsp
Lemon Juice
1½ tsp
CANDIED WALNUTS
Raw Walnut
1 cup
Sugar
4 tbsp
Salt
⅛ tsp
Oil
4 tbsp
Water
4 tbsp
Equipment
Thermometer
Instructions
1Prepare the Shrimp
20m
Season Shrimp
Peel and devein the shrimp. Rinse them under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Season the shrimp with salt, sugar, and white pepper powder.
Coat Shrimp
Evenly coat the shrimp with corn starch, shaking off any excess. Let the shrimp rest for 10-15 minutes to allow the corn starch to adhere.
Marinate Shrimp
Cover the shrimp and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to keep them fresh and help the coating stick during frying.
2Fry the Shrimp
5m
Heat Oil
Heat oil in a wok or deep pot to 380°F (195°C). Use a thermometer to ensure the correct temperature.
First Fry
Gently add the shrimp to the hot oil, one by one, in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for 2 minutes until lightly golden. Remove from oil and let them rest on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes.
Second Fry
Reheat the oil to 400°F (200°C). Fry the shrimp again for about 20 seconds until they are golden brown and crispy. Remove from oil and drain on a wire rack.
3Make the Candied Walnuts
20m
Combine Ingredients
In a non-stick pan over medium-low heat, combine the walnuts, sugar, salt, oil, and water. Stir to combine.
Cook Walnuts
Cook for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the liquid caramelizes and coats the walnuts. The sugar will become sticky and the walnuts will turn golden brown.
Cool Walnuts
Remove the walnuts from the pan and spread them on parchment paper to cool completely. Separate them so they don't stick together.
4Prepare the Dressing
2m
Combine Dressing Ingredients
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, honey, condensed milk, and lemon juice until smooth and creamy.
5Assemble and Serve
3m
Combine Shrimp and Dressing
In a large bowl, combine the fried shrimp with the prepared dressing. Toss gently to coat the shrimp evenly.
Add Walnuts
Add the candied walnuts to the bowl with the shrimp and toss gently to combine.
Serve
Transfer the walnut shrimp to a serving plate and serve immediately.
Tips
Ensure the oil is at the correct temperature before frying the shrimp for optimal crispiness.
Do not overcrowd the pan when frying the shrimp; fry in batches if necessary.
The double-frying technique is key to achieving perfectly crispy shrimp.
Stir the walnuts frequently while candying them to prevent burning.
The dressing can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator.