Keto Honey Walnut Shrimp: A Delicious and Healthy Takeout Alternative

Craving the sweet and savory flavors of honey walnut shrimp but trying to stick to a keto or low-carb diet? This recipe offers a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional takeout, without the gluten, grains, refined sugar, or excessive carbs. This dish is designed to be lower in carbohydrates, promoting metabolic health and balanced blood sugar levels.

Why This Recipe Works

Traditional honey walnut shrimp is often loaded with sugar and processed ingredients that can lead to blood sugar spikes and derail your health goals. This keto-friendly version recreates the classic flavors using whole food ingredients and sugar substitutes, so you can enjoy a restaurant-worthy meal without the guilt.

Many people find that eating out, especially Asian dishes, can be tricky when trying to manage blood sugar. Hidden sugars and processed ingredients in sauces can cause unwanted glucose spikes. This recipe aims to solve that problem by offering a "cleaned up" version of honey walnut shrimp that keeps your glucose steady.

Key Ingredients and Substitutions

• Shrimp: Opt for the best quality shrimp you can afford. Fresh or frozen shrimp will work (thaw completely before using).
• Walnuts: Walnuts provide a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor. If you have a nut allergy, you can skip them or substitute with another nut.
• Sauce: This recipe uses light mayonnaise to reduce calories and a sugar-free honey substitute to minimize sugar content.
• Broccoli: Broccoli adds a healthy dose of vegetables and complements the flavors of the dish. Fresh or frozen broccoli florets can be used.
• Almond Flour: Used as a low-carb alternative to traditional flour for coating the shrimp.
• Keto Honey: A sugar-free honey substitute used to create the sweet and sticky sauce.
• Whey Protein Isolate: This is used to create a batter for the shrimp tempura, providing a low-carb alternative to cornstarch.
• Allulose: A low-carb sweetener used for candying the walnuts.

Recipe Variations and Tips

• Chicken Option: If you have a shellfish allergy or prefer chicken, you can substitute boneless, skinless chicken thighs cut into bite-sized pieces. Chicken breast also works.
• Non-Keto Version: To make a version closer to the original recipe, swap the protein powder for cornstarch and use real honey and brown sugar.
• Air Fryer Option: For a healthier cooking method, air fry the shrimp instead of frying in oil.
• Add Spice: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the candied walnuts for a touch of heat.
• Ensure Shrimp is Dry: Before coating the shrimp with batter, ensure they are completely dried off with a paper towel. This helps the batter adhere properly.
• Oil Temperature: Make sure the oil reaches a temperature of at least 375°F before frying the shrimp to ensure they get crispy.
• Batter Consistency: If the batter seems too runny, add 1 teaspoon of almond flour at a time until it reaches the desired consistency.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Candied Walnuts:

1. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top.
2. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the sweetener, salt, and water. Stir occasionally until the mixture begins to bubble.
3. Let it bubble for 10 seconds, then add the walnuts and toss to coat.
4. Continue to bubble for another 2-3 minutes, stirring periodically, being careful not to burn the sauce.
5. Use a slotted spatula to transfer the walnuts to the wire rack, allowing excess sauce to drip onto the parchment paper.
6. Set the walnuts aside to cool.

2. Make the Keto Honey Walnut Sauce:

1. In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, keto honey substitute, salt, and keto sweetened condensed milk (if using). Adjust the amount of sweetener to your liking.
2. Alternatively, combine heavy cream, keto honey, sugar-free sweetener, soy sauce, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and grated ginger to make the sauce. Set aside.
3. For a paleo version, combine butter, heavy whipping cream (or coconut milk), mayonnaise, keto honey (or coconut sugar), and salt in a saucepan. Simmer over medium-high heat until thickened.

3. Prepare the Shrimp:

1. Peel and devein the shrimp. Remove the tails.
2. In a sealed bag, combine almond flour, and chopped walnuts.
3. Dip each shrimp into the beaten eggs, then dredge in the almond flour and walnut mixture, pressing gently to coat evenly.
4. Alternatively, whisk together almond flour, sparkling water, eggs, garlic powder, and salt in a mixing bowl. Add the shrimp to the batter and mix until evenly coated.

4. Cook the Shrimp:

1. Heat oil (avocado oil is a good option) in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
2. Fry the shrimp in batches for 1-2 minutes per side, until golden brown and fully cooked. Avoid overcrowding the pan.
3. Transfer the cooked shrimp to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
4. Alternatively, place the coated shrimp in an air fryer and spray with a light coat of cooking spray. Air fry for 6-8 minutes at 375°F (190°C) until fully cooked.

5. Combine and Serve:

1. In the same skillet (discard excess oil), pour in the prepared sauce mixture and cook until it thickens slightly, about 2-3 minutes.
2. Add the fried shrimp and candied walnuts to the skillet and toss to coat evenly.
3. Serve immediately over cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, or shredded cabbage. Garnish with extra chopped walnuts, if desired.

Tips for the Best Results

• Don't Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly, so watch it carefully to prevent it from becoming rubbery.
• Adjust Sweetness to Taste: The amount of sweetener can be adjusted depending on your preference.
• Serve Immediately: This dish is best served immediately to ensure the shrimp remains crispy.

Nutritional Information

Nutritional information is provided as a courtesy and is an approximation only. The actual nutritional content may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. Net carbs are calculated as total carbs minus fiber. Erythritol carbs are typically not included in carb counts as they have minimal impact on blood sugar.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this keto honey walnut shrimp with:

Read also: Easy Low-Carb Cheese Crackers

• Cauliflower fried rice
• Zucchini noodles
• Steamed broccoli
• Shredded cabbage

Storage Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or air fryer to maintain crispiness.

Read also: Keto Calorie Counting: A Detailed Guide

Read also: Magnesium Supplements for Keto

tags: #keto #honey #walnut #shrimp