Introducing the Honey Almond Shrimp Delight—an irresistible combination of crispy shrimp, toasted almonds, and a honey-infused sauce that brings just the right amount of sweetness and tang. Perfect for a special dinner or when you want to impress without too much fuss.
The main star here is the shrimp, providing a tender and juicy bite that contrasts beautifully with the other elements. Cornstarch gives the shrimp a light, crispy coating, while the egg whites help the cornstarch adhere better. Almond slices add a delightful crunch and a nutty flavor. For the sauce, honey brings a natural sweetness, mayonnaise adds creaminess, sweetened condensed milk provides a rich, sweet undertone, and lemon juice offers a hint of brightness. A pinch of salt enhances all the flavors. Finally, vegetable oil is used for frying, ensuring a crispy finish.
This dish pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice or a light cucumber salad to balance the richness of the sauce. For a bit of heat, consider adding a side of chili-garlic sauce.
Start by whisking the egg whites in a medium bowl until they’re frothy. This step is crucial as it gives the shrimp that airy coating we’re aiming for. In another bowl, coat the shrimp with cornstarch, ensuring each piece is evenly covered—this is your ticket to that perfect crunch. Dip each shrimp into the frothy egg whites, making sure they’re fully submerged and coated.
Now, heat your vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. You’ll know it’s ready when a small drop of batter sizzles on contact. Fry the shrimp in batches, giving them about 3 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and crispy. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan, as this can lead to uneven cooking. Once they’re done, transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Meanwhile, toast the almond slices in a separate pan over low heat. Keep a close eye on them as they can go from golden to burnt pretty quickly. Once they’re lightly golden, remove them from heat and set aside.
In a mixing bowl, combine the honey, mayonnaise, sweetened condensed milk, lemon juice, and salt. Whisk until smooth and well-blended. This sauce is your flavor powerhouse, so make sure it’s thoroughly mixed.
Finally, toss the fried shrimp with the toasted almond slices and the prepared sauce, ensuring everything is evenly coated. Serve immediately, and if you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle a few extra almond slices on top for presentation.