Sarah BrownWhen you think of Panda Express’s Honey Walnut Shrimp, what comes to mind? Perhaps it’s the juicy shrimp, the crunch of walnuts, and that sweet sauce. But let’s not stop there!
This dish pairs beautifully with several sides that can elevate your meal. Consider serving it alongside fried rice for an authentic Asian touch. Steamed vegetables add a fresh crunch, brightening up the rich flavors of the shrimp.
If you’re in the mood for something simple, some plain white rice can soak up that delicious sauce just perfectly. And don’t forget about egg rolls—that crispy exterior filled with veggies creates a delightful contrast!
Ah, the tender bite of shrimp, coupled with the crunch of walnuts coated in a sweet glaze. If you’ve ever indulged in Panda Express’s Honey Walnut Shrimp, you know it’s a dish that brings joy in every bite. But what’s the secret behind this dish that makes it such a favorite?
As a registered dietitian and food enthusiast, I was eager to break down its components, uncover its flavor profiles, and, of course, create a recipe you can whip up in your home kitchen.
Panda Express has a way of combining flavors that resonate with so many palates. But let’s dive deeper. What truly sets their Honey Walnut Shrimp apart? Spoiler alert: it’s all about those ingredients and techniques. So, buckle up and get ready to explore the delicious journey of this dish!
What is Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp?
At its core, Panda Express’s Honey Walnut Shrimp is a beautiful combination of crispy shrimp, crunchy walnuts, and a delightful sweet sauce. This dish exemplifies how flavors can merge to create something truly satisfying. The shrimp is battered and fried, yielding a crispy exterior while maintaining its tender, juicy interior.
It’s then tossed in a creamy, sweet sauce made with honey and mayonnaise, which gives a delightful sheen and a burst of flavor. Walnuts, toasted to perfection, add texture and depth, creating an irresistible harmony of taste and crunch.
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What is the Flavor Profile of This Dish?
The flavor profile of Honey Walnut Shrimp is a delightful medley. It’s primarily sweet, thanks to the honey and sugar. But it doesn’t stop there; there’s a slight tang from the rice vinegar that helps balance out the sweetness.
The creamy mayonnaise adds body, while the walnuts contribute a nutty flavor with a delightful crunch. At the heart of it all is the shrimp, which provides a mild, seafood flavor that anchors the entire dish.
What Makes This Recipe Different from Other Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp?
This recipe stands out in a few notable ways. First, it emphasizes fresh ingredients, making it healthier without sacrificing flavor. The use of egg whites in the batter keeps the shrimp tender while providing that crispy finish that’s so desirable.
Unlike the restaurant version, which may rely on pre-made sauces and ingredients with high sodium levels, this recipe allows control over what goes in. The result? A dish that’s just as satisfying but made with your own hands and healthier alternatives.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s gather our ingredients! Here’s what you need to get started:
- 4 egg whites, room temperature: They help create an airy batter.
- 1 pound large shrimp (18-20 count), peeled and deveined: Fresh shrimp offer the best taste and texture.
- 2/3 cup cornstarch: This is essential for that crunchy coating.
- 1/2 cup walnut halves, roughly chopped: Walnuts are key for that signature crunch.
- 1 cup water: To create the batter.
- 2/3 cup granulated white sugar: For sweetness.
- 1/4 cup creamy mayonnaise: A little richness.
- 2 tablespoons raw honey: Natural sweetness and flavor.
- 1 tablespoon sweetened condensed milk: Adds creaminess and additional sweetness.
- 1 cup vegetable oil (for frying): Choose high smoke-point oil for frying.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar: To balance the richness.
- Scallions, finely chopped, for garnish (optional): Adds a fresh touch.
Step-by-Step Directions
Now, let’s dive into making this delightful dish! Here’s a straightforward breakdown of how you can create your very own Honey Walnut Shrimp at home.
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Begin by rinsing your shrimp under cold water. Pat them dry with paper towels. This is crucial as excess moisture can prevent that lovely batter from adhering to the shrimp. Next, place the shrimp in a bowl and add a pinch of salt and pepper. Let them sit for a few minutes.
Step 2: Make the Batter
In another bowl, whisk together the egg whites and water until frothy. Gradually add the cornstarch while mixing until you obtain a smooth batter. It should be thick but not too heavy. When done, it’s time to coat those shrimp!
Step 3: Coat the Shrimp
Dip each shrimp into the batter, ensuring it’s fully coated. Shake off any excess batter, as a little goes a long way. Place the battered shrimp on a plate lined with parchment paper while you heat the oil.
Step 4: Heat the Oil
In a deep skillet or pot, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. You’ll know it’s ready when it shimmers and a drop of batter sizzles on contact. Don’t overcrowd the pan; fry in batches for even cooking.
Step 5: Fry the Shrimp
Once the oil is hot, carefully add the shrimp in batches. Fry them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn golden and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and drain them on paper towels.
Step 6: Prepare the Sauce
In a separate pot over low heat, combine the granulated sugar, honey, mayonnaise, sweetened condensed milk, and rice vinegar. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and heated through. It shouldn’t boil; just a gentle warmth is enough to meld the flavors.
Step 7: Toast the Walnuts
In a small pan, toast the walnut halves over medium heat until they’re golden brown. This enhances their flavor. Be sure to watch them closely as they can burn quickly.
Step 8: Combine
In a bowl, toss the crispy shrimp with the sauce until they’re well-coated. Sprinkle in the toasted walnuts and gently fold them in. If desired, top with finely chopped scallions for added color and freshness.
Tips on Making Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp
Now that you’ve got the basics down, here are some handy tips to make your Honey Walnut Shrimp stand out:
- Use fresh shrimp: They have a much better flavor and texture compared to frozen ones.
- Don’t skip the toasting: Toasting walnuts adds a depth of flavor that enhances the dish.
- Monitor the oil temperature: Too hot and the shrimp will burn; too cold and they’ll be greasy. Ideally, aim for 350°F.
- Experiment with sweetness: Depending on your preference, adjust sugar and honey levels to suit your taste.
- Garnish matters: A sprinkle of scallions or sesame seeds on top not only looks appetizing but adds flavor contrast.
Nutrition Information
One serving of this Honey Walnut Shrimp (about 6 shrimp and sauce) has approximately:
- Calories: 400
- Protein: 25g
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 16g
How Can I Store This Honey Walnut Shrimp?
If you find yourself with leftovers (unlikely, but it happens!), store the Honey Walnut Shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best consumed within 1-2 days.
Reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore some crunch. Microwaving may result in sogginess, which we want to avoid.
Ingredient Substitutions
Not every pantry is stocked with the exact ingredients. Here are some substitutions that can work:
- Egg whites → Whole eggs: If you’re out of egg whites, use one whole egg instead. Just keep in mind that it may alter the texture slightly.
- Walnuts → Pecans: If walnuts aren’t your thing, chopped pecans offer a similar crunch and flavor.
- Mayonnaise → Greek yogurt: For a healthier alternative, Greek yogurt can replace mayonnaise while adding creaminess.
- Raw honey → Agave syrup: If you prefer a vegan option, agave syrup can provide sweetness much like honey.
Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp Recipe
Equipment
- Deep skillet
Ingredients
- 4 egg whites room temperature
- 1 pound large shrimp 18-20 count, peeled and deveined
- 2/3 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 cup walnut halves roughly chopped
- 1 cup water
- 2/3 cup granulated white sugar
- 1/4 cup creamy mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons raw honey for a richer, natural sweetness
- 1 tablespoon sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup vegetable oil for frying
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar adds a subtle tang to balance the sweetness
- Scallions finely chopped, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
- Begin by rinsing your shrimp under cold water. Pat them dry with paper towels. This is crucial as excess moisture can prevent that lovely batter from adhering to the shrimp. Next, place the shrimp in a bowl and add a pinch of salt and pepper. Let them sit for a few minutes.
Step 2: Make the Batter
- In another bowl, whisk together the egg whites and water until frothy. Gradually add the cornstarch while mixing until you obtain a smooth batter. It should be thick but not too heavy. When done, it’s time to coat those shrimp!
Step 3: Coat the Shrimp
- Dip each shrimp into the batter, ensuring it’s fully coated. Shake off any excess batter, as a little goes a long way. Place the battered shrimp on a plate lined with parchment paper while you heat the oil.
Step 4: Heat the Oil
- In a deep skillet or pot, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. You’ll know it’s ready when it shimmers and a drop of batter sizzles on contact. Don’t overcrowd the pan; fry in batches for even cooking.
Step 5: Fry the Shrimp
- Once the oil is hot, carefully add the shrimp in batches. Fry them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn golden and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and drain them on paper towels.
Step 6: Prepare the Sauce
- In a separate pot over low heat, combine the granulated sugar, honey, mayonnaise, sweetened condensed milk, and rice vinegar. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and heated through. It shouldn’t boil; just a gentle warmth is enough to meld the flavors.
Step 7: Toast the Walnuts
- In a small pan, toast the walnut halves over medium heat until they’re golden brown. This enhances their flavor. Be sure to watch them closely as they can burn quickly.
Step 8: Combine
- In a bowl, toss the crispy shrimp with the sauce until they’re well-coated. Sprinkle in the toasted walnuts and gently fold them in. If desired, top with finely chopped scallions for added color and freshness.
Notes
- Use fresh shrimp: They have a much better flavor and texture compared to frozen ones.
- Don’t skip the toasting: Toasting walnuts adds a depth of flavor that enhances the dish.
- Monitor the oil temperature: Too hot and the shrimp will burn; too cold and they’ll be greasy. Ideally, aim for 350°F.
- Experiment with sweetness: Depending on your preference, adjust sugar and honey levels to suit your taste.
- Garnish matters: A sprinkle of scallions or sesame seeds on top not only looks appetizing but adds flavor contrast.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just make sure to use cornstarch that’s labeled gluten-free. Many brands offer gluten-free alternatives that work perfectly as a coating.
2. Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes, you can prepare the components ahead of time. Fry the shrimp just before serving to maintain crispness. Mix and store the sauce separately, and toss everything together when you’re ready to eat.
3. Can I bake the shrimp instead of frying?
While frying gives that characteristic crunch, you can bake them at 400°F. Just coat them well and bake for approximately 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
4. How do I make this dish spicier?
If you want to add a kick, a dash of sriracha or crushed red pepper flakes can be mixed into the sauce for some heat without overpowering the sweetness.
5. What’s a good drink pairing for Honey Walnut Shrimp?
A refreshing iced tea or even a light, crisp white wine can complement this dish well. The slight acidity of these drinks balances the sweetness of the shrimp beautifully.
Conclusion
Panda Express’s Honey Walnut Shrimp isn’t just a dish; it’s an experience wrapped in flavors that both surprise and delight. From the crispy shrimp to the crunchy walnuts, every bite tells a story of culinary fusion and taste. Armed with this recipe and insider knowledge, you can bring a piece of this beloved dish right into your own kitchen.
So go on, gather your ingredients and get cooking! Whether it’s for a family dinner or a casual get-together, Honey Walnut Shrimp will surely impress everyone at the table. And who knows?
You might just glimpse the look of pure joy on someone’s face as they take that first bite. And that, my friends, is the cherry on top. Happy cooking!
