Honey Walnut Shrimp Recipe Without Condensed Milk – Freshly Ingredients

Honey Walnut Shrimp is a dish that’s often celebrated in Chinese-American cuisine, cherished for its sweetness and crunch. But have you ever tried to create it without the usual condensed milk? 

Trust me, it can be just as delightful, and maybe even healthier. As someone who is both a food enthusiast and a registered dietitian, I’ve tinkered with ingredients over time, achieving a fresh take on this classic. This version elevates the flavors while maintaining that satisfying experience.

Creating this dish makes me think of culinary adventures I’ve had. I remember the first time I tried Honey Walnut Shrimp at a local restaurant, the shrimp dipped in a creamy sauce, perfectly complemented by the crunchy walnuts. It was a hit. 

Fast forward to now, and I’ve crafted a recipe that captures that magic, without the need for any condensed milk. You won’t believe how simple it is to recreate the same deliciousness at home.

Why This Recipe Works

This isn’t just a recipe; it’s a winning combination of flavors and textures. Here’s why you’ll love it:

1. Healthier Alternative: We replace condensed milk with healthier ingredients like maple syrup and honey. This means you get the sweetness without the extra preservatives and sugars typical in many recipes.

2. Uncomplicated Preparation: Even if you’re not a kitchen wizard, you’ll find this straightforward. The steps are easy to follow, and you won’t spend hours in the kitchen.

3. Rich Flavor Profiles: Each bite brings together the sweetness of honey, the crunch of walnuts, and a hint of spice from cayenne. This balance keeps things interesting without overwhelming your taste buds.

4. Versatile Ingredients: Most of the ingredients are likely already in your kitchen. This makes it easy to whip up whenever a craving strikes, without a special trip to the grocery store.

How Does It Taste Like?

If you’re wondering how it tastes, think of melting sweetness combined with a satisfying crunch. The shrimp, fried to golden perfection, has an outer layer that’s almost crispy, while remaining tender inside. 

The maple walnuts add a delightful crunch and a touch of savory spice. The honey brings it all together, providing that sticky, sweet finish. It’s like a dance of flavors in every bite, making it hard to stop at just one piece!

What Sets This Recipe Apart from Other Variations?

You might ask, “What makes my honey walnut shrimp recipe so unique?” Here’s what sets it apart:

• Absence of Condensed Milk: Many recipes use condensed milk for sweetness and creaminess. My version uses a blend of natural sweeteners, giving it a fresher taste and fewer calories.
• Homemade Sauce: The sauce isn’t just thrown together. It’s crafted with a careful balance of mayo, honey, and lemon juice, which contributes to a richer flavor profile compared to bottled alternatives.
• Ghee for Frying: Ghee imparts a wonderful, nutty flavor that adds depth without compromising on health.
• Focus on Freshness: Fresh ingredients and attention to proportions allow the shrimp and walnuts to shine. It’s all about balancing that sweetness and texture.

The Ingredients

Now that we’ve set the scene, let’s gather our ingredients for this scrumptious dish.

Maple Spiced Walnuts:

• 1 1/3 cups raw walnuts
• 1 1/2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon melted ghee (or refined coconut oil, or avocado oil)
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (I prefer Diamond Crystal)
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Paleo Walnut Shrimp:

• 3 tablespoons Paleo mayonnaise (or use Primal Kitchen Mayo)
• 1 tablespoon raw honey
• 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 pound of large shrimp, peeled and deveined (about 20-25 pieces)
• 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt (Diamond Crystal)
• 1 egg white
• 2 tablespoons tapioca starch
• 1 cup ghee (or avocado oil)
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)

Instructions

Let’s get cooking! Follow these steps to create an outstanding Honey Walnut Shrimp without using any condensed milk.

Step 1: Prepare the Walnuts

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together the walnuts, maple syrup, melted ghee, salt, cayenne pepper, and smoked paprika. Ensure all walnuts are coated evenly.
3. Spread the coated walnuts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake them for about 10-15 minutes, stirring halfway through, until golden and fragrant.

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, honey, lemon juice, and salt. Mix until smooth to create the sauce.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg white until frothy. Add the tapioca starch gradually, mixing until smooth. This will create a light batter for the shrimp.

Step 3: Frying the Shrimp

1. Heat the ghee or oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Dip each shrimp into the egg mixture, allowing excess batter to drip off. Then place it in the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding, about 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
3. Remove shrimp from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 4: Assemble and Serve

1. In a large mixing bowl, toss the fried shrimp with the prepared sauce until well-coated.
2. Gently mix in the spiced walnuts and maple glaze.
3. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and cilantro before serving.

And there you have it—a deliciously different take on Honey Walnut Shrimp!

Notes

• Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter sauce, feel free to add more honey or maple syrup to taste.
• Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp yields the best texture. If frozen, thaw them properly.
• Spice Level: The cayenne adds warmth. Adjust based on your heat preference or omit entirely.
• Watch the Frying: Don’t leave the shrimp unattended while frying as they can brown quickly.
• Oil Temperature: Ensure that the oil is hot enough before adding shrimp. A test is to drop a small piece of batter into the oil; if it sizzles, you’re good to go.

Nutrition Information

Each serving contains:

• Calories: 433
• Protein: 31g
• Carbohydrates: 23g
• Fat: 26g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 5g

How Do You Store This Honey Walnut Shrimp?

This dish is best enjoyed fresh. However, if you have leftovers, you can keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. 

Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to maintain crispness.

Sides for Honey Walnut Shrimp

Here are three sides that enhance the dining experience:

1. Garlic Fried Rice

Fried rice is a classic pairing. Prepare it by stir-frying day-old rice with garlic, peas, carrots, and soy sauce. It’s a filling option that absorbs the flavors from the shrimp beautifully.

2. Asian Slaw

A crunchy slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and a ginger-soy dressing adds a refreshing touch. The sauce balances the richness of the dish, making each bite a delight.

3. Stir-Fried Broccoli

Quickly sauté broccoli with garlic and sesame oil. This side provides a nutritious bite that complements the flavors without being overpowering.

What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients?

Running low on ingredients? No problem. Here are some smart swaps:

1. Walnuts

If you don’t have walnuts, consider using pecans or cashews. They’ll add a different, yet satisfyingly crunchy, element.

2. Ghee

In place of ghee, you can use coconut oil or avocado oil. Both provide a high smoke point and won’t alter the flavor significantly.

3. Shrimp

If shrimp isn’t available, chicken breast or tofu can be excellent alternatives. Cut them into bite-sized pieces and use the same batter.

4. Maple Syrup

In place of maple syrup, agave nectar or brown sugar can provide a similar sweetening effect. Adjust according to your taste preferences.

Conclusion

Making Honey Walnut Shrimp without condensed milk has never been easier or tastier. With the right ingredients and a bit of care in preparation, you’ll find this dish becomes a staple in your cooking repertoire. 

From the sweet maple-glazed walnuts to the crunchy, tender shrimp, it’s a dish that not only delights the palate but also brings joy to any gathering.

So, gather your ingredients and step into this delightful culinary adventure. Remember, cooking should be about enjoying the process and sharing delicious moments with loved ones. Bon appétit!

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