Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful dish that captures the essence of your favorite Chinese restaurant without the guilt, then this Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp Recipe is just what you need! This recipe is a beloved favorite in my home, and not only because it’s scrumptious, but also because it’s healthier and so easy to make. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this dish always brings smiles and satisfied bellies to the table.

The combination of crispy shrimp, sweet honey, and crunchy walnuts creates a flavor explosion that everyone will adore. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—perfect for those who want to enjoy a takeout favorite while keeping things light and wholesome!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: You can whip up this dish in just 30 minutes from start to finish! Perfect for those nights when you need something delicious but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly: With its delightful flavors and textures, even picky eaters will be asking for seconds. It’s an ideal meal for families!
• Healthier Version: This recipe skips added sugars and unhealthy fats, making it a lighter alternative to traditional versions while keeping all the flavor.
• Customizable: Want to make it dairy-free or keto? No problem! This recipe adapts beautifully to fit your dietary needs.
• Impressive Presentation: The golden brown shrimp topped with sweetened walnuts look stunning on any table, making it great for entertaining or special occasions.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp Recipe, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll gather:

For the Shrimp

• 1 lb extra large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 2 large egg whites (whisked)
• 8 tbsp potato starch (or tapioca starch)
• ⅓ to ½ cup avocado oil

For the Sauce

• 4 tbsp mayo
• 1 tbsp honey (or keto honey)
• 2-2.5 tbsp evaporated milk (or sugar-free coconut condensed milk)

For the Topping

• ½ cup walnuts (unsalted whole or chopped)
• 1 bulb scallion (chopped)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility. Feel free to get creative based on your preferences or what you have on hand!

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken or tofu instead of shrimp for a different twist that still captures that classic flavor.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes into the sauce for a spicy kick that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness.
• Go nut-free: If you prefer, leave out the walnuts entirely or substitute them with sunflower seeds for crunch without the nuts.
• Add some veggies: Toss in some broccoli or snap peas during frying for extra color and nutrition!

How to Make Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Start by butterflying your shrimp. This means making a shallow slit cut along the back spine of each shrimp. Not only does this help them cook evenly, but it also gives them an appealing shape when they’re fried.

Step 2: Coat the Shrimp

Set up your workspace with bowls for egg whites and potato starch. Dip each butterflied shrimp into the egg white first, letting any excess drip off before moving them into the potato starch. This coating will give your shrimp that lovely golden-brown crispness we all crave!

Step 3: Heat Your Oil

In a stainless steel or cast iron pan, heat your avocado oil over medium-high heat. After about three minutes, check if it’s ready by inserting a wooden chopstick; if bubbles form around it, you’re good to go! Aim for a temperature of 350°F/177°C.

Step 4: Fry in Batches

Now comes the fun part—frying! Carefully add your coated shrimp in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry each side for about three minutes until they’re golden brown. Once done, let them rest on a wire rack so they stay crispy while draining excess oil.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

In a bowl, combine mayo, honey, and evaporated milk. Mix until smooth—this sauce is where all the magic happens! It ties everything together perfectly.

Step 6: Sweeten Your Walnuts

Toss your walnuts with two tablespoons of your homemade sauce until they’re well coated. This step adds even more flavor and crunch!

Step 7: Assemble & Serve

Finally, plate up those beautiful shrimp! Top them off with your sweetened walnuts, drizzle more sauce over everything if desired, and sprinkle chopped scallions on top. Serve hot and watch everyone dig in with delight!

Pro Tips for Making Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp Recipe

Creating a delicious Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp at home is easier than you think! Here are some pro tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

• Butterfly the shrimp properly: This technique not only helps the shrimp cook evenly but also allows the sauce to cling better, giving you that delightful flavor in every bite.

• Use a thermometer for oil temperature: Maintaining the right oil temperature is crucial for achieving that golden brown color and crispy texture. Too hot, and the shrimp may burn; too cold, and they can become greasy.

• Fry in small batches: Frying in smaller portions ensures that the oil temperature stays consistent. It also prevents overcrowding, which can lead to uneven cooking.

• Adjust sweetness to taste: Everyone has their personal preference for sweetness. Start with less honey, and add more as needed when mixing the sauce to suit your taste buds!

• Let shrimp rest on a wire rack: Resting the fried shrimp on a wire rack instead of paper towels helps maintain crispiness by allowing excess oil to drip off without steaming them.

How to Serve Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp Recipe

Serving your homemade Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp can be just as delightful as making it! Here are some creative ideas to present this dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped scallions: A sprinkle of fresh chopped scallions adds a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that complements the dish perfectly.
• Sesame seeds: Toasted sesame seeds provide an extra crunch and nutty flavor, enhancing both presentation and taste.
• Cilantro leaves: Adding fresh cilantro gives a vibrant touch, making your dish look inviting while introducing a refreshing herbaceous note.

Side Dishes

• Steamed jasmine rice: Soft and fragrant, steamed jasmine rice serves as a perfect base for soaking up the luscious sauce from the shrimp.
• Stir-fried vegetables: A colorful mix of bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas stir-fried with garlic makes for a healthy and crunchy side that balances the richness of the shrimp.
• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a squeeze of lemon adds freshness and complements the flavors beautifully.
• Asian slaw: Crunchy cabbage slaw with carrots dressed in sesame vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the sweet-and-savory shrimp while adding texture.

Now that you’re equipped with these tips and serving suggestions, it’s time to gather your ingredients and impress your family or guests with this delightful dish! Enjoy your homemade take on Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it in advance and enjoy it throughout the week while keeping it fresh and delicious.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Consume leftovers within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.
• Keep the sauce and walnuts separate to maintain their texture.

Freezing

• Place cooled, cooked shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer the frozen shrimp to a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible.
• Use within 1-2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat shrimp in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Alternatively, you can reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring gently until warm.
• Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe that might help you out!

Can I make Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp Recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Simply substitute the mayo with a dairy-free alternative and use sugar-free coconut condensed milk instead of evaporated milk.

How do I get the shrimp crispy in Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp Recipe?

To achieve that perfect crispiness, ensure your oil is hot enough before frying. Additionally, avoid overcrowding the pan so each piece cooks evenly.

Can I prepare Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp Recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the shrimp and sauce ahead of time. Just store them separately until you’re ready to serve.

What can I serve with Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp Recipe?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal that’s both satisfying and healthy!

Is Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp Recipe suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! This recipe is great for meal prep as it stores well and maintains its flavors when reheated properly.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re excited to try making this delightful Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp recipe at home! It’s not just a healthier version of a beloved favorite but also incredibly easy to prepare. Enjoy the joyous crunch of perfectly fried shrimp paired with sweet honey walnut goodness. Don’t hesitate to share your experience or ask any questions—I’m here to help! Happy cooking!