Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp: A Sweet and Savory Delight
Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp is a popular dish that perfectly balances the sweetness of honey with the crunch of walnuts and the tender, succulent shrimp. This dish is a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it a favorite among fans of American-Chinese cuisine. Whether you’re looking to recreate this beloved dish at home or simply want to learn more about it, this guide will walk you through the ingredients, preparation, and tips for making the perfect Honey Walnut Shrimp.
Ingredients List
To prepare Honey Walnut Shrimp, you will need the following ingredients:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- ½ cup cornstarch
- 1 egg, beaten
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- Oil for frying
For the Honey Walnut Sauce:
- ½ cup honey
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 cup walnuts, toasted
- Salt, to taste
For Garnish:
- Chopped green onions (optional)
- Sesame seeds (optional)
Ingredient Substitutions
- Shrimp: You can substitute shrimp with chicken or tofu for a different protein option.
- Mayonnaise: Use Greek yogurt for a lighter version of the sauce.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Walnuts
- Toast the Walnuts: In a small pan over medium heat, add the walnuts and toast them for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp
- Coat the Shrimp: In a bowl, combine the cornstarch and flour. Dip the shrimp into the beaten egg, then coat them in the cornstarch-flour mixture.
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat oil to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the Shrimp: Fry the coated shrimp in batches for about 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and drain on paper towels.
Step 3: Make the Honey Walnut Sauce
- Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, mix together the honey, mayonnaise, and lemon juice until smooth. Add salt to taste.
- Add Walnuts: Fold in the toasted walnuts, ensuring they are well coated with the sauce.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
- Mix Shrimp and Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the fried shrimp with the honey walnut sauce, tossing gently to coat.
- Garnish and Serve: Serve immediately, garnished with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick breakdown of the nutritional content per serving (based on 4 servings):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Sugars | 20g |
| Protein | 25g |
| Fat | 15g |
| Fiber | 2g |
*DV = Daily Value based on a 2,000-calorie diet.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
For a healthier twist on the Honey Walnut Shrimp, consider these modifications:
- Baking Instead of Frying: Bake the shrimp at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-12 minutes for a lower-fat option.
- Use Less Honey: Reduce the amount of honey in the sauce to cut down on sugar.
Serving Suggestions
Enhance your Honey Walnut Shrimp experience with these creative serving ideas:
- Serve with Rice: Pair with steamed jasmine or brown rice for a complete meal.
- Add Vegetables: Serve alongside stir-fried vegetables for added nutrition and color.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure your Honey Walnut Shrimp turns out perfectly, keep these common pitfalls in mind:
- Overcrowding the Pan: Fry the shrimp in batches to prevent steaming and ensure they cook evenly.
- Not Toasting Walnuts: Toasting the walnuts enhances their flavor and adds a nice crunch.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
To maintain the freshness and flavor of your dish, follow these storage tips:
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to retain the shrimp’s texture.
Conclusion
Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp is a deliciously sweet and savory dish that brings the flavors of American-Chinese cuisine to your table. With its crispy shrimp, creamy sauce, and crunchy walnuts, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you serve it as a main course or a delightful appetizer, you’ll love the combination of flavors and textures in every bite.
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While the shrimp are best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce and toast the walnuts in advance. Cook the shrimp just before serving.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, frozen shrimp can be used; just ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before coating.
What if I don’t like walnuts?
You can substitute walnuts with pecans or omit them altogether for a different texture.
Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp
Ingredients
- For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- ½ cup cornstarch
- 1 egg, beaten
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- Oil for frying
- For the Honey Walnut Sauce:
- ½ cup honey
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 cup walnuts, toasted
- Salt, to taste
- For Garnish:
- Chopped green onions (optional)
- Sesame seeds (optional)
- Ingredient Substitutions
- Shrimp: You can substitute shrimp with chicken or tofu for a different protein option.
- Mayonnaise: Use Greek yogurt for a lighter version of the sauce.
Instructions
- Toast the Walnuts: In a small pan over medium heat, add the walnuts and toast them for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Coat the Shrimp: In a bowl, combine the cornstarch and flour. Dip the shrimp into the beaten egg, then coat them in the cornstarch-flour mixture.
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat oil to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the Shrimp: Fry the coated shrimp in batches for about 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, mix together the honey, mayonnaise, and lemon juice until smooth. Add salt to taste.
- Add Walnuts: Fold in the toasted walnuts, ensuring they are well coated with the sauce.
- Mix Shrimp and Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the fried shrimp with the honey walnut sauce, tossing gently to coat.
- Garnish and Serve: Serve immediately, garnished with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired.