Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup (60g) walnuts halves
  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) water
  • 2 tablespoons (25g) granulated sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt (1.5g)
  • 1 pound (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined (16/20 count recommended)
  • 1 teaspoon (5ml) lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon (1.25g) black pepper
  • 1/2 cup (60g) cornstarch
  • 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) baking powder
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) water
  • Vegetable oil, for frying (about 3-4 cups, or 700-950ml)
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 tablespoon (15ml) honey

Instructions:

  1. Candy the Walnuts: Combine walnuts, water, sugar, and salt in saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until sugar dissolves and walnuts are coated. Continue cooking until walnuts are dry and sugar is crystallized. Remove from heat and spread walnuts on parchment paper to cool.
  2. Prepare the Shrimp: Pat shrimp dry. Toss with lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  3. Make the Batter: In a bowl, whisk together cornstarch, flour, and baking powder. Gradually add water, whisking until a smooth batter forms.
  4. Heat the Oil: Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C).
  5. Batter and Fry the Shrimp: Dip each shrimp into the batter, ensuring it's fully coated. Carefully place battered shrimp into the hot oil, working in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
  6. Drain and Cool: Remove fried shrimp with a slotted spoon or spider and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
  7. Make the Honey-Mayo Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweetened condensed milk, and honey until smooth.
  8. Combine and Serve: Place fried shrimp in a large bowl. Pour honey-mayo sauce over the shrimp and toss gently to coat. Top with candied walnuts. Serve immediately.