Wok-Fired Shrimp from Panda Express features tender shrimp stir-fried with crisp red bell peppers, green onions, and fresh garlic in a savory ginger soy sauce, delivering a flavorful and vibrant dish with a tantalizing aroma and colorful presentation.
Equipments
- Wok
- Wok spatula
- Mixing bowls
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons
- Measuring cups
- Colander or strainer
- Tongs
- Paper towels
- Serving plate or bowl
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 red bell pepper
- 4 green onions
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1 tablespoon ginger
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper (optional)
- Salt
- Black pepper
Using fresh, large shrimp that are properly peeled and deveined ensures the best texture and flavor in your dish. Measure your sauces accurately for a balanced ginger soy sauce that complements the crispness of red bell peppers and green onions. Fresh garlic and ginger provide the aromatic foundation necessary for that distinctive Panda Express taste. Remember to adjust the crushed red pepper to control the heat level to your preference. This precise combination of ingredients helps you recreate the bold and vibrant flavors found in the Wok-Fired Shrimp from Panda Express copycat menu.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Pat shrimp dry with paper towels.
- Toss shrimp with cornstarch in a mixing bowl.
- Slice red bell pepper into strips.
- Slice green onions into 1-inch pieces.
- Mince garlic and ginger.
- In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and crushed red pepper.
- Heat wok over high heat until very hot.
- Add 1 tablespoon vegetable oil and swirl to coat.
- Add shrimp, season with salt and black pepper, and stir-fry for 1–2 minutes until just pink.
- Remove shrimp and set aside.
- Add remaining 1 tablespoon oil to wok.
- Add red bell pepper, stir-fry for 1 minute.
- Add green onions, garlic, and ginger, stir-fry for 30 seconds.
- Return shrimp to wok.
- Pour in sauce mixture and stir-fry for 1–2 minutes, until shrimp are cooked through and sauce coats evenly.
- Transfer to serving plate or bowl.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
Wok-Fired Shrimp from Panda Express copycat menu offers a delicious and colorful stir-fry featuring shrimp, red bell peppers, and green onions in a savory ginger soy sauce. If large shrimp are unavailable, you can substitute with medium shrimp while adjusting the cooking time to prevent overcooking. When fresh ginger is not accessible, ground ginger powder or garlic-ginger paste can be used as alternatives without sacrificing flavor. Vegetable oil should be chosen for its high smoke point, but canola or peanut oil work well too to handle the high heat of wok cooking. You can customize the level of spice by omitting crushed red pepper or adding chili garlic sauce based on your personal taste preferences.
Tips
Make sure to pat your shrimp dry with paper towels before tossing them in cornstarch; this helps achieve a crispy texture during stir-frying. Preheat your wok until it's very hot to prevent sticking and ensure quick, even cooking. Use high heat throughout the process and avoid overcrowding the wok, as this can cause the shrimp to steam rather than fry. Stir-fry the shrimp and vegetables quickly, finishing by tossing everything in the prepared ginger soy sauce to evenly coat and enhance the flavors.
Nutritions
Wok-Fired Shrimp is a nutrient-rich dish that provides a good source of lean protein from the shrimp, essential for muscle repair and growth. Red bell peppers contribute high levels of vitamin C and antioxidants, supporting immune function and skin health. The ginger and garlic offer anti-inflammatory properties while enhancing flavor without extra calories. Your meal includes healthy fats from sesame oil and a balance of sodium from soy and oyster sauces, so moderating portion size can help maintain heart health.
Storage
Store leftover Wok-Fired Shrimp in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking to maintain freshness. Your shrimp dish will stay flavorful for up to 3 days when properly chilled. To reheat, warm gently in a wok or microwave to preserve the tender texture and vibrant sauce.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute shrimp with scallops or thinly sliced chicken breast for a different protein option. Swap red bell pepper for julienned carrots or snap peas to vary the texture and color. Marinating the shrimp in a mixture of soy sauce and ginger before stir-frying enhances flavor depth. Use a high smoke point oil like peanut or grapeseed oil if you want to achieve a sharper sear with better heat tolerance.
Allergies
Wok-Fired Shrimp from Panda Express contains shellfish, a common allergen that can cause severe reactions in sensitive individuals. Soy sauce and oyster sauce include soy and fish derivatives, which may also trigger allergies. Your consumption should be cautious if you have sensitivities to any of these ingredients.
Why this recipe?
Wok-Fired Shrimp from Panda Express is beloved for its perfectly seared shrimp tossed in a bold, savory sauce infused with garlic and chili, delivering a satisfying balance of flavor and texture. Each bite offers a crispy exterior with tender, juicy shrimp inside, making it a standout choice for seafood lovers seeking a quick, flavorful meal. Recreating this dish at home allows you to customize spice levels and ingredients, ensuring a fresh, personalized experience that matches or even exceeds the restaurant quality. Your homemade version guarantees a delicious, restaurant-style dish tailored to your taste preferences and dietary needs.