Walnut Shrimp Recipe Air Fryer: A Healthier and Delicious

If you’re a fan of Chinese-American cuisine, you’ve likely enjoyed the rich and creamy walnut shrimp dish. This delightful meal, traditionally deep-fried and tossed in a sweet mayo-based sauce, is beloved for its crunchy texture and flavorful coating. However, the deep-frying process can add unnecessary calories and fat. Enter the Walnut Shrimp Recipe Air Fryer, a healthier yet equally indulgent version of this classic dish. Using an air fryer, you can achieve the same crispiness without excessive oil while retaining the signature flavors.

In this article, we’ll guide you step-by-step through preparing this delicious walnut shrimp recipe in an air fryer. From preparation to plating, we’ll ensure you have all the details needed to make this dish a success.

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Introduction

Walnut shrimp is a crowd-pleaser with its combination of crunchy shrimp, candied walnuts, and creamy sauce. The dish is a perfect blend of textures and flavors: the crunchiness of the shrimp, the sweetness of the walnuts, and the tangy richness of the sauce. While traditionally considered indulgent, this air fryer version brings a healthier twist without compromising on taste. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or craving takeout-style food at home, this air fryer walnut shrimp recipe is sure to impress.

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Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Active Time: 10 minutes
• Resting Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Cuisine: Chinese-American
• Course: Main Course
• Servings: 4
• Calories: Approximately 400 calories per serving

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Ingredients

For the Shrimp:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup cornstarch or potato starch
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Cooking spray (for air fryer)

For the Candied Walnuts:

• 1/2 cup walnuts
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons water

For the Sauce:

• 1/3 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons sweetened condensed milk
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

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Equipment

• Air fryer
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Saucepan
• Baking sheet or parchment paper
• Silicone spatula

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

1. Rinse and pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel. Season them with salt and black pepper.
2. Set up a breading station with two bowls: one with beaten eggs and another with cornstarch.
3. Dip each shrimp in the egg, ensuring it’s fully coated, then dredge it in the cornstarch, shaking off any excess.

Step 2: Air Fry the Shrimp

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.
2. Arrange the breaded shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding; cook in batches if necessary.
3. Lightly spray the shrimp with cooking spray to enhance crispiness.
4. Air fry for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the shrimp are golden and crispy.

Step 3: Make the Candied Walnuts

1. In a small saucepan, combine sugar and water over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture starts to simmer.
2. Add the walnuts and stir constantly for 3–4 minutes until they are coated and glossy.
3. Transfer the candied walnuts to a parchment-lined baking sheet to cool.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweetened condensed milk, honey, and lemon juice. Adjust sweetness or tanginess to your preference.
2. Set the sauce aside until ready to use.

Step 5: Toss and Serve

1. Once the shrimp are done, transfer them to a mixing bowl. Drizzle the creamy sauce over the shrimp and toss gently until evenly coated.
2. Plate the shrimp and top with candied walnuts. Serve immediately for the best texture.

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Nutrition (Per Serving)

• Calories: 400
• Protein: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fat: 20g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Sugars: 10g

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Tips for Success

1. Shrimp Selection: Use large or jumbo shrimp for the best texture and presentation. Ensure they are fresh or properly thawed if frozen.
2. Crispy Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry before breading to ensure a crispy coating.
3. Customizable Sauce: Add a touch of sriracha or chili sauce to the mayo mixture for a spicy kick.
4. Batch Cooking: Avoid overcrowding the air fryer to allow proper air circulation for even cooking.

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Why Choose an Air Fryer for Walnut Shrimp?

Using an air fryer reduces the amount of oil needed, resulting in a healthier dish that still delivers the crunch and flavor you love. Traditional deep-frying soaks shrimp in oil, while air frying uses hot air circulation to achieve similar results with just a light spray of oil.

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Final Thoughts

This Walnut Shrimp Recipe Air Fryer is a game-changer for anyone who loves this classic dish but wants a healthier alternative. With minimal oil and maximum flavor, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Pair it with steamed rice and some stir-fried vegetables for a complete, satisfying meal.

Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the delightful combination of crispy shrimp, sweet candied walnuts, and creamy sauce—all made effortlessly in your air fryer!