Copycat Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp

Copycat Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp

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What Is Honey Walnut Shrimp?

Honey Walnut Shrimp is a popular Chinese-American dish featuring crispy fried shrimp coated in a creamy, sweet honey sauce with caramelized walnuts on top. It’s a delicious mix of textures and flavors, combining crunchiness with a sweet and savory glaze.

Why Make It at Home?

Sure, ordering from Panda Express is convenient, but making this dish at home has its perks!

  • Healthier: You control the ingredients and avoid excessive oils and preservatives.
  • Cheaper: A single serving at the restaurant can be pricey, but making it yourself saves money.
  • Customizable: You can tweak the recipe to suit your taste, like reducing sugar or adding extra spice.

Ingredients Needed

For the Shrimp:

  • 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 2 egg whites
  • Oil for frying

For the Candied Walnuts:

  • 1/2 cup walnuts
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1/4 cup water

For the Sauce:

  • 1/3 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 1 tbsp sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 tsp lemon juice

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the Candied Walnuts

  1. In a small saucepan, combine sugar and water. Bring to a boil.
  2. Add the walnuts and let them caramelize for about 2-3 minutes.
  3. Remove from heat and place the walnuts on parchment paper to cool.

2. Coating and Frying the Shrimp

  1. In a bowl, whisk egg whites until frothy.
  2. Dip each shrimp into the egg whites and then coat with cornstarch.
  3. Heat oil in a pan and fry the shrimp until golden brown (about 2 minutes per side).
  4. Remove and drain excess oil on a paper towel.

3. Making the Sweet Honey Sauce

  1. In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, honey, sweetened condensed milk, and lemon juice.
  2. Stir until smooth and creamy.

4. Combining Everything Together

  1. Toss the crispy shrimp in the honey sauce until evenly coated.
  2. Sprinkle the candied walnuts on top.
  3. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips for the Best Honey Walnut Shrimp

  • Use fresh shrimp for the best texture and flavor.
  • Fry in small batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
  • Drain excess oil for crispier shrimp.
  • Serve immediately to maintain the crunch.

What to Serve with Honey Walnut Shrimp?

  • Steamed Rice: A classic side that soaks up the sauce perfectly.
  • Stir-Fried Vegetables: Adds freshness and balance to the dish.
  • Chow Mein or Lo Mein: For a complete restaurant-style meal.

How to Store and Reheat

  • Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
  • Reheating: Heat in an oven at 350°F for 10 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it makes the shrimp soggy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Skipping the cornstarch coating: This helps create the crispy texture.
  • Using too much sauce: A light coating is enough; too much can make the shrimp soggy.
  • Overcooking the shrimp: They cook fast, so be careful not to make them rubbery.

Healthier Alternatives

  • Air fry the shrimp instead of deep frying.
  • Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise.
  • Reduce sugar in the candied walnuts.

Can You Bake Instead of Fry?

Yes! Preheat your oven to 400°F, coat the shrimp lightly with oil, and bake for 10-12 minutes until crispy.

Different Variations to Try

  • Spicy Honey Walnut Shrimp: Add a dash of sriracha to the sauce.
  • Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free cornstarch alternative.
  • Extra Crunch: Add panko breadcrumbs to the coating.

Pairing Honey Walnut Shrimp with Other Dishes

  • Orange Chicken: Another Panda Express favorite.
  • Egg Rolls: A crunchy side that complements the dish.
  • Hot and Sour Soup: A great way to start your meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes! Just thaw them completely and pat them dry before coating and frying.

2. What can I use instead of cornstarch?

You can use potato starch or flour, but cornstarch gives the best crispy texture.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can prepare the sauce and walnuts in advance.

4. How do I prevent the shrimp from getting soggy?

Fry them at the right temperature and serve immediately to keep them crispy.

5. Is Honey Walnut Shrimp spicy?

No, it’s sweet and creamy, but you can add spice if you like!

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