Walnut Shrimp
Try this Walnut Shrimp recipe, or contribute your own.
Try this Walnut Shrimp recipe, or contribute your own.
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons water
- pinch of salt
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/3 cup cornstarch
- 2 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon oil
- 3 tablespoons sweetened condensed milk
- 30 walnut halves (i like a lot of walnuts and they usually disappear quickly)
- 3 to 4 cups canola oil for frying (use the same oil for shrimp)
- 1/4 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 1 pound shrimp (16/20 size shrimp) peeled and deveined
- 2 teaspoons honey (optional)
- 8 ounces broccoli crowns cut into 2 inch florets
- Carbohydrate 17.8795079182327 g
- Cholesterol 12.9299999979458 mg
- Fat 11.9594730356612 g
- Fiber 1.54159181282004 g
- Protein 2.95078133104696 g
- Saturated Fat 2.76261330454638 g
- Serving Size 1 1 serving (223g)
- Sodium 239.104956161962 mg
- Sugar 16.3379161054127 g
- Trans Fat 4.75020949074507 g
- Calories 186 calories
Step-by-step
- Heat enough canola oil in a small pot to submerge a whole shrimp (3 to 4 cups).
- When oil reaches 325 degrees F, fry walnuts for about 4 minutes, until golden brown.
- While oil heats, make simple syrup: combine 2 tablespoons water, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt in a saucepan over low heat; stir occasionally and reduce for 3 to 5 minutes.
- Remove walnuts from oil with a slotted spoon, draining excess oil. Transfer to saucepan with simple syrup.
- Stir walnuts in syrup over medium-low heat until liquid is gone and syrup coats walnuts.
- Transfer candied walnuts to a parchment-lined sheet pan to cool.
- Combine mayonnaise, condensed milk, rice vinegar, and salt in a bowl; set aside.
- Make deeper cuts on the back of shrimp for even coating.
- Lightly dredge shrimp in cornstarch and set aside.
- Blanch broccoli florets in boiling water with salt and oil for 30 seconds; immediately transfer to ice water, then drain.
- Heat frying oil to 350 degrees F.
- Dredge shrimp in cornstarch again.
- Fry shrimp in batches until golden brown (2 to 3 minutes), rolling gently.
- Transfer fried shrimp to a bowl.
- Pour creamy sauce over shrimp and toss to coat.
- Arrange broccoli on a plate, top with shrimp and candied walnuts.
- Drizzle with honey (optional).
Walnut Shrimp: A Culinary Adventure
As a busy professional, finding time for elaborate cooking is often a challenge. Yet, I crave delicious, satisfying meals that nourish my body and soul. This Walnut Shrimp recipe isn't just quick; it’s a delightful balance of sweet, savory, and crunchy textures that elevates a simple weeknight dinner to a culinary adventure. The beautiful presentation adds an extra touch of elegance, perfect for impressing colleagues or enjoying a special meal with loved ones without requiring hours in the kitchen.
The magic lies in the careful balance of flavors and textures. The crisp, golden-brown shrimp offer a delightful contrast to the sweet and subtly salty candied walnuts. The creamy sauce, a perfect blend of mayonnaise, condensed milk, and rice vinegar, adds a rich depth that ties all the elements together. I’ve found that using good quality mayonnaise makes all the difference - it provides a creamy richness without being overpowering. And let’s not forget the vibrant green broccoli, providing a healthy, fresh counterpoint to the richness of the other ingredients. This is a dish where every component enhances the whole, resulting in a flavor symphony that's sure to please the most discerning palate.
The preparation process itself is remarkably straightforward. While the recipe involves several steps, each is quite simple and manageable. I often prepare the sauce and candied walnuts earlier in the day, leaving only the shrimp and broccoli preparation for the actual cooking time. The frying process itself is efficient; the shrimp cook rapidly, ensuring a tender interior and perfectly crisp exterior. The secret to success lies in ensuring your oil is at the correct temperature – using a thermometer helps guarantee perfectly cooked shrimp every time. And don’t be afraid to experiment! You can adjust the amount of walnuts or honey to your liking, making each dish uniquely yours.
This Walnut Shrimp recipe has become a staple in my culinary repertoire, a go-to dish for those evenings when I want something both delicious and satisfying without sacrificing too much precious time. It's versatile enough to serve as a light lunch, a satisfying dinner, or even an elegant appetizer for a small gathering. The combination of sweet, savory, and crunchy textures makes this a truly unforgettable culinary experience. The beauty of the dish also makes it a wonderful way to treat myself or impress guests.
Beyond the delightful taste and relatively easy preparation, this Walnut Shrimp recipe offers a sense of accomplishment. It’s a dish that showcases simple ingredients transformed into something truly special. It’s a testament to the power of culinary creativity, reminding us that even busy schedules can allow for moments of delicious indulgence. So, the next time you’re searching for a flavorful and efficient meal, give this recipe a try. I guarantee it’ll quickly become a favorite in your home too.
Tips for Success:
- Use a thermometer: Accurately monitoring the oil temperature is crucial for perfectly cooked shrimp and walnuts.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Fry the shrimp in batches to ensure even cooking.
- Prep ahead: Make the sauce and candied walnuts earlier in the day to save time.
- Adjust to your taste: Feel free to experiment with the amount of walnuts, honey, or other seasonings to personalize your dish.
- Presentation matters: Arrange the shrimp and broccoli attractively on the plate for a visually appealing meal.
This Walnut Shrimp recipe is more than just a meal; it's a celebration of simple ingredients, elegant flavors, and efficient cooking. It's the perfect embodiment of a balanced lifestyle, blending deliciousness with practicality. Enjoy!
