A Flavor That Stays in Your Memory
Close your eyes for a second and picture this: golden shrimp fresh out of the fryer, coated in a silky, sweet, and tangy mayonnaise sauce, with glossy candied walnuts adding a gentle crunch. The aroma alone could make your mouth water. Mayonnaise walnut shrimp isn’t just a recipe; it’s a treat that blends creamy indulgence with crispy texture in a way that feels luxurious but is surprisingly easy to make at home.
If you’ve ever ordered it at a Chinese-American restaurant and wondered how to recreate it in your kitchen, you’re in for a treat. This guide will take you step-by-step through the process, helping you get the balance of flavors and textures just right, so every bite feels like something worth savoring.
Table of Contents
What Is Mayonnaise Walnut Shrimp?
Before diving into the steps, let’s understand what makes this dish so special:
- Origin: This dish gained popularity through Chinese-American restaurants, with some attributing its rise to spots like Panda Express. It’s a fusion of East and West—deep-fried shrimp with a mayonnaise-based sauce, sweetened condensed milk, and crunchy candied walnuts.
- Flavor profile: A blend of sweet, savory, creamy, and crispy all in one bite.
- Why it’s a hit: It’s versatile—perfect for family dinners, date nights, or special occasions when you want something impressive without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients for Mayonnaise Walnut Shrimp
You’ll want to gather everything before starting. Having your ingredients prepped will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Large shrimp (peeled & deveined) | 1 lb | Fresh or thawed frozen shrimp |
| Walnuts | ½ cup | Raw or roasted |
| Mayonnaise | ½ cup | Use a creamy, rich brand |
| Honey | 3 tbsp | Or swap with sugar |
| Sweetened condensed milk | 2 tbsp | Adds richness |
| Cornstarch | ½ cup | For coating shrimp |
| Egg white | 1 | Helps the coating stick |
| Vegetable oil | For frying | Neutral oil like canola or peanut |
| Water | ½ cup | For boiling walnuts |
| Sugar | ¼ cup | For candying walnuts |
Step-by-Step Guide to Prepare Mayonnaise Walnut Shrimp
Step 1 – Candy the Walnuts
- Bring water to a boil and add walnuts. Boil for 2–3 minutes to remove any bitterness.
- Drain and toss with sugar until evenly coated.
- Fry in hot oil for 2–3 minutes or bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes until glossy and crunchy.
- Set aside to cool.
Tip: Spread the walnuts out to cool, so they don’t clump together.
Step 2 – Prepare the Shrimp Coating
- Pat shrimp dry with paper towels.
- Beat the egg white in a bowl, add shrimp, and toss to coat.
- Place cornstarch in another bowl and dredge each shrimp until lightly covered.
Why this matters: A dry shrimp surface and light coating help achieve maximum crispiness.
Step 3 – Fry the Shrimp
- Heat oil in a deep pan or wok to about 350°F (175°C).
- Fry shrimp in batches (don’t overcrowd) for 2–3 minutes or until golden brown.
- Drain on paper towels.
Pro tip: Fry in small batches to keep the oil temperature steady.
Step 4 – Make the Mayonnaise Sauce
In a separate bowl:
- Combine mayonnaise, honey, and sweetened condensed milk.
- Whisk until smooth.
- Taste and adjust sweetness if necessary.
Step 5 – Combine & Serve
- Toss fried shrimp in the sauce until evenly coated.
- Plate and sprinkle candied walnuts on top.
- Serve immediately for that perfect hot-and-crunchy bite.
Tips for the Best Mayonnaise Walnut Shrimp
- Freshness matters: Use fresh shrimp if possible—it makes a noticeable difference.
- Don’t over-sauce: Too much sauce will make the shrimp soggy.
- Double-fry method: For extra crunch, fry shrimp twice—once to cook, and again briefly to re-crisp before saucing.
- Serve right away: The dish is at its best within minutes of tossing in the sauce.
Variations You Can Try
Spicy Mayonnaise Walnut Shrimp
- Add a teaspoon of sriracha or chili paste to the sauce for a kick.
Healthier Oven-Baked Version
- Bake shrimp at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes instead of frying.
Tropical Twist
- Add pineapple chunks for extra sweetness and a burst of freshness.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per Serving)
| Nutrient | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 380 kcal |
| Protein | 20 g |
| Fat | 22 g |
| Carbs | 28 g |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking shrimp: Leads to a rubbery texture. Cook just until opaque.
- Skipping the walnut candying: This step adds essential crunch and sweetness.
- Not drying shrimp before coating: Moisture prevents the batter from sticking.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What type of shrimp is best for mayonnaise walnut shrimp?
A: Large shrimp or prawns work best for both flavor and presentation.
Q: Can I make mayonnaise walnut shrimp ahead of time?
A: You can prep components, but combine sauce and shrimp right before serving.
Q: Is this dish served hot or cold?
A: It’s best enjoyed hot so the coating stays crispy.
Q: Can I use nuts other than walnuts?
A: Yes, pecans or cashews can be used for a twist on flavor.
Conclusion
By now, you know exactly how to bring mayonnaise walnut shrimp from restaurant menus into your own kitchen. With its irresistible mix of creamy, sweet sauce and crisp golden shrimp topped with candied walnuts, this dish turns any mealtime into a celebration.
So, next time you’re craving something indulgent yet easy, grab your shrimp, whisk up that sauce, and treat yourself and your loved ones to a plate that’s bound to earn compliments.
Your turn: Try this recipe tonight and see how quickly it disappears from the table. And if you put your own twist on it, share it with friends—you might just inspire someone else’s next favorite dish.
