Honey Walnut Shrimp

Mix the Sauce

1. 01

   Combine mayonnaise, honey, and rice vinegar in a bowl and stir until smooth.
   

Season the Shrimp

1. 02

   Pat the shrimp completely dry using paper towels.
2. 03

   Season the shrimp evenly with kosher salt and white pepper.

Heat the Oil

1. 04

   Add neutral oil to a skillet to a depth of about 1/2 inch.
2. 05

   Heat the oil to 350–360°F over medium-high heat.

Make the Batter

1. 06

   Combine cornstarch, flour, baking powder, and salt in a mixing bowl.
2. 07

   Add the ice-cold sparkling water and mix just until combined and thick, with a condensed milk–like consistency.
   

Fry the Shrimp

1. 08

   Dip each shrimp into the batter and allow excess batter to drip off.
2. 09

   Fry the shrimp in batches until lightly golden and crisp, about 2–3 minutes per batch.
3. 10

   Transfer the shrimp immediately to a wire rack to drain.
4. 11

   Allow the shrimp to rest for 1 minute, then return them to the oil for 20 seconds to reinforce the crust.
5. 12

   Transfer back to the wire rack.
   

Candy the Walnuts

1. 13

   Add butter, honey, and walnuts to a small pan over medium heat.
2. 14

   Cook until the walnuts are glossy and lightly sticky, just under 1 minute.
3. 15

   Remove from heat and set aside.
   

Finish the Dish

1. 16

   Allow the shrimp to cool for 60–90 seconds before saucing.
2. 17

   Gently toss the shrimp with the honey sauce off heat until lightly coated.
3. 18

   Fold in the candied walnuts just before serving.