Honey Walnut Shrimp from Panda Express features crispy battered shrimp tossed in a sweet, creamy honey sauce and topped with candied walnuts, offering a delightful blend of crunchy, sweet, and savory flavors.
Equipments
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Tongs
- Slotted spoon
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Saucepan
- Deep fryer or large pot
- Paper towels
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup walnuts
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Ensure your shrimp are large and properly peeled and deveined for the best texture and flavor. Use fresh walnuts to make the sugar-coated walnuts that add the perfect crunch. The honey sauce combines honey, sweetened condensed milk, and mayonnaise for a creamy, sweet finish that complements the crispy shrimp. Cornstarch and eggs create a light, crispy batter essential for authentic Panda Express-style Honey Walnut Shrimp. Your homemade Honey Walnut Shrimp from Panda Express copycat menu will deliver a delicious balance of sweet, savory, and crunchy elements.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a saucepan, combine 1/2 cup sugar and 1/4 cup water. Bring to a boil, stirring until sugar dissolves.
- Add walnuts to the syrup, simmer for 2 minutes.
- Remove walnuts with slotted spoon, spread on prepared baking sheet, bake for 10-12 minutes until golden, let cool.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, honey, and sweetened condensed milk. Set sauce aside.
- In another bowl, whisk eggs and salt.
- Place cornstarch in a separate bowl.
- Dip shrimp into egg mixture, then dredge in cornstarch, coating well.
- Heat vegetable oil in deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry shrimp in batches until golden and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per batch. Remove with slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- Toss fried shrimp with honey sauce in a bowl until coated.
- Arrange shrimp on a plate, sprinkle candied walnuts on top, and serve immediately.
Substitution
Honey Walnut Shrimp from Panda Express copycat menu replicates the crispy battered shrimp coated in a rich, creamy honey sauce and crowned with candied walnuts. If you don't have sweetened condensed milk, you can substitute with evaporated milk mixed with a bit of sugar for similar sweetness and creaminess. Use a neutral oil like canola or peanut oil for frying to ensure the shrimp crisps perfectly without overpowering flavors. When coating the shrimp, make sure the cornstarch is evenly distributed to achieve the ideal crunchy texture. If your kitchen lacks a deep fryer, a heavy-bottomed pot can be used for frying, maintaining the oil temperature around 350degF (175degC) for best results.
Tips
Ensure your shrimp are thoroughly dried before coating to promote crispiness during frying. Maintain the oil temperature at a steady 350degF (175degC) to prevent greasy shrimp and uneven cooking. While candying walnuts, watch closely to avoid burning the sugar syrup, as it can turn bitter quickly. Your timing is crucial--serve the shrimp immediately after tossing in the sauce to keep the coating crisp and the flavors vibrant.
Nutritions
Honey Walnut Shrimp provides a nutritious balance of protein and healthy fats from shrimp and walnuts, supporting muscle growth and heart health. The dish contains a moderate amount of carbohydrates and sugars from the honey, sugar, and sweetened condensed milk, which supply quick energy but should be consumed in moderation. The crispy batter adds calories from cornstarch and frying oil, so portion control is beneficial for maintaining a balanced diet. Your meal can satisfy sweet and savory cravings while delivering essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants found in walnuts.
Storage
To store your Honey Walnut Shrimp, cool the cooked shrimp completely before placing them in an airtight container lined with paper towels to absorb excess moisture. Keep the container in the refrigerator and consume within 2 days for best flavor and texture. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to preserve the crispy coating without sogginess.
Variation or Alternatives
For a variation, you can substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt to reduce calories while maintaining creaminess in the honey sauce. Swap the cornstarch coating with panko breadcrumbs for an extra crunchy texture on your shrimp. Instead of deep-frying, try baking the shrimp at 400degF (200degC) for 15-18 minutes to achieve a lighter, oil-free alternative. Your dish will still capture the signature sweet and savory flavors but with a healthier twist.
Allergies
Honey Walnut Shrimp contains common allergens such as shellfish from the shrimp and tree nuts from the walnuts, which can trigger severe allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. The dish also includes eggs and dairy ingredients like mayonnaise and sweetened condensed milk, posing risks for those with egg or milk allergies. Be sure to verify ingredient safety if you have any known allergies to protect your health.
Why this recipe?
Honey Walnut Shrimp at Panda Express is beloved for its perfect balance of crispy fried shrimp coated in a sweet, creamy honey sauce, complemented by crunchy candied walnuts. The dish offers a unique blend of textures and flavors that create a memorable sweet and savory experience. Making a copycat version allows you to customize the ingredients and control the freshness, ensuring your shrimp are crispy and the sauce is perfectly balanced to your taste. Your homemade Honey Walnut Shrimp can rival the restaurant's quality, making it a rewarding dish to master in your kitchen.