Picture this: the sizzle of shrimp hitting hot oil, releasing an enticing aroma that dances through your kitchen, making your mouth water. After a week filled with mundane meals and takeout that lost its charm, I was on the hunt for something invigorating and delicious. Then I stumbled upon the recipe for Panda Express-style honey walnut shrimp, a dish that promised both elegance and simplicity.
This tempting creation marries crispy, golden shrimp with a luscious honey sauce and crunchy walnuts. It’s a dynamite dish, bringing the flavors of a beloved restaurant right into your home, and what’s even better? You can whip it up in no time! The delightful contrast of textures and sweet-savory flavors makes it a crowd-pleaser for family dinners or casual get-togethers. So, let’s dive into this sumptuous recipe and transform your kitchen into a gourmet haven!
Why is Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp so Special?
Crispy, Crunchy Shrimp: Each piece is perfectly fried to golden perfection, offering a satisfying crunch with every bite.
Luscious Sauce: The rich combination of honey and mayo creates an irresistible glaze that elevates the dish to gourmet status.
Quick and Easy: With straightforward steps, you can savor this delightful recipe in under 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights!
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Whether it’s a cozy family meal or a gathering with friends, this dish garners compliments and happy plates.
Versatile Option: Pair it with steamed rice or fresh veggies for a balanced meal that suits everyone’s tastes. If you’re looking for more exciting Asian-inspired recipes, check out our collection of delicious Asian dishes!
Ingredients for Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp
Get ready to create this delicious dish with the following ingredients!
For the Shrimp
- 1 lb extra large shrimp – Make sure they’re peeled and deveined for easy cooking.
- 2 large egg whites – Whisk them for a light coating on the shrimp.
- 8 tbsp potato starch or 4 tbsp whey protein isolate – This will give the shrimp that delightful crispiness.
For Frying
- ⅓ to ½ cup avocado oil – A high smoke point oil for the perfect fry.
For the Sweet Glaze
- ½ cup walnuts – Use unsalted, whole or chopped; they add crunch and richness.
- 4 tbsp mayo – This creates a creamy base for the sauce.
- 1 tbsp honey or keto honey – For that signature sweetness; you can adjust to taste.
- 2-2.5 tbsp evaporated milk or sugar-free coconut condensed milk – This adds silky smoothness to the glaze.
For Garnish
- 1 bulb scallion – Chop it for a fresh topping that brightens the dish.
How to Make Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp
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Butterfly the shrimp by making a shallow slit cut along the back “spine” to help them cook evenly and absorb flavors better.
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Set up your workspace by preparing separate bowls for the whisked egg and potato starch. It’s helpful to have a large plate ready to keep your coated shrimp organized.
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Dip each shrimp in the egg, ensuring it’s fully coated, then transfer it to the potato starch. Coat evenly, allowing excess starch to fall off before moving to the plate.
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Heat the oil in a stainless steel or cast iron pan over medium-high heat. After about 3 minutes, test the oil temperature with a wooden chopstick; bubbles should form around it when it’s ready. Aim for 350°F/177°C.
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Fry the shrimp in batches, cooking for about 3 minutes per side or until they turn a beautiful golden brown. Once cooked, place them on a wire rack to maintain their crispiness and to drain any excess oil.
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Mix the sauce by combining mayo, honey, and evaporated milk in a bowl. Stir until you have a smooth, creamy glaze that will nicely coat your shrimp.
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Sweeten the walnuts by tossing them in a mixing bowl with 2 tablespoons of the prepared sauce. This adds an extra layer of flavor and keeps them deliciously sticky.
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Serve the shrimp on a large plate, sprinkle the sweetened walnuts on top, and drizzle with additional honey walnut sauce. Don’t forget to garnish with chopped scallions for that fresh touch! Serve hot and enjoy.
Optional: Serve with steamed rice or fresh veggies for a complete meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These delicious Panda Express honey walnut shrimp are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can butterfly the shrimp and coat them in egg and potato starch up to 24 hours in advance, simply refrigerating them until you’re ready to fry. The sweetened walnuts can also be prepared ahead by tossing them in the sauce and storing them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, just fry the shrimp until golden brown, mix the sauce, and assemble with the walnuts. This way, you’ll enjoy a restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort, making busy weeknights much easier and more delicious!
Tips for the Best Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp
Freshness Matters: Choose fresh, high-quality shrimp for the best flavor and texture. Frozen shrimp can work, but make sure to thaw them properly.
Perfect Frying: Maintain a consistent oil temperature around 350°F/177°C. Too hot, and the shrimp will burn; too low, and they’ll become greasy. Use a thermometer for accuracy!
Coating Tips: Ensure each shrimp is evenly coated with egg and potato starch. Avoid clumping by working in small batches. Shake off excess starch before frying.
Crispiness Control: Rest the fried shrimp on a wire rack instead of paper towels. This keeps them crispy by allowing air to circulate around them.
Sauce-to-Shrimp Ratio: Drizzle the honey walnut sauce generously over the shrimp but save some for serving. Taste as you go to ensure you get the sweetness just right.
Variations & Substitutions for Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp
Feel free to add your own spin to this delightful dish with these tasty variations!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute potato starch with cornstarch for a gluten-free option that keeps the crunch intact.
- Nut-Free: Swap walnuts with crispy chickpeas or sunflower seeds for that delightful crunch without the nuts.
- Sugar-Free: Use sugar-free honey or maple syrup for a keto-friendly alternative that still delivers sweetness.
- Vegetable Twist: Add lightly fried broccoli or snap peas for color and nutrition, creating an even more vibrant dish that pleases the eye and palate.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in a dash of sriracha or chili flakes to the honey sauce to add a deliciously spicy twist that’ll elevate your meal.
- Creamy Variation: Whip in a spoonful of Greek yogurt into the sauce for extra creaminess and a touch of tang. This will make the glaze even more luscious!
- Herbaceous Note: Toss in fresh cilantro or basil as a garnish, adding a burst of freshness that beautifully contrasts the sweetness.
- Flavor Infusion: Marinate the shrimp in a bit of soy sauce and ginger for 15 minutes before coating to introduce deeper flavors that play beautifully with the honey sauce.
What to Serve with Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp?
Creating a well-rounded meal to complement this delightful dish is a wonderful way to elevate your dining experience.
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffy, aromatic rice absorbs the sweet glaze perfectly, balancing the flavors of the shrimp.
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Sautéed Broccoli: Tender-crisp broccoli adds vibrant color and a fresh crunch, enhancing the overall texture of your meal. A sprinkle of sesame seeds can elevate it even further!
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Crispy Spring Rolls: These crunchy bites packed with veggies provide a satisfying contrast and a fun texture that pairs seamlessly with the honey walnut shrimp.
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Coconut Milk Soup: A light, creamy soup with hints of lime and cilantro will elevate your meal, offering a refreshing and flavorful start.
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Garlic Butter Noodles: Soft, buttery noodles are irresistible, making them a perfect complement to the crispy shrimp. A touch of green onion can brighten each bite.
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Mango Salad: A light salad with ripe mango, avocado, and a tangy dressing counters the sweetness of the shrimp, providing a delightful contrast.
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Chilled White Wine: Opt for a crisp Sauvignon Blanc that enhances the sweet-savory notes of the dish, making each sip as enjoyable as every bite.
How to Store and Freeze Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp
Room Temperature: Best enjoyed fresh, but you can leave leftovers at room temperature for up to 2 hours to cool before refrigerating.
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a hot, non-stick pan for a few minutes to retain the crispiness.
Freezer: For best results, freeze the cooked shrimp separately from the sauce in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Always reheat your shrimp in a preheated pan or oven to keep them crispy. Avoid using a microwave, as it can make them soggy.
Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp Recipe FAQs
How do I choose fresh shrimp?
Absolutely, choosing fresh shrimp is crucial for the best flavor! Look for shrimp that have a firm texture, a clean ocean scent, and a translucent color. Avoid any shrimp with dark spots or a strong fishy odor, as these can indicate spoilage.
What’s the best way to store leftover honey walnut shrimp?
Very simple! Allow your leftover shrimp to cool at room temperature for up to 2 hours, then transfer them to an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for about 3 days. To reheat, use a hot non-stick pan for a few minutes to maintain their crispiness.
Can I freeze panda express honey walnut shrimp?
Of course! To freeze, place the cooled, cooked shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Just remember to freeze the sauce separately. Thaw the shrimp in the fridge overnight before reheating in a hot pan to keep that delightful crunch.
What do I do if my shrimp become soggy after frying?
If your shrimp end up soggy, don’t worry too much! Next time, ensure your oil temperature stays at around 350°F/177°C for optimal frying. If the shrimp are already cooked but soggy, you can try placing them in a preheated oven for about 5-7 minutes to help crisp them back up.
Is this recipe suitable for people with seafood allergies?
If someone has a seafood allergy, this recipe is not suitable as it contains shrimp. To make a similar dish without shrimp, you could substitute the protein with crispy tofu or cauliflower, adjusting the frying time accordingly to achieve that satisfying crunch. Always check with anyone you’re serving to ensure it aligns with dietary restrictions.
Can I make this dish keto-friendly?
Certainly! To make a keto version, simply substitute the honey with a keto-friendly alternative, like erythritol or monk fruit sweetener. Additionally, using sugar-free coconut condensed milk maintains the creamy texture without the carbs. Enjoy every bite guilt-free!
Delicious Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp Made Easy at Home
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Butterfly the shrimp by making a shallow slit cut along the back 'spine' to help them cook evenly and absorb flavors better.
- Set up your workspace by preparing separate bowls for the whisked egg and potato starch.
- Dip each shrimp in the egg, ensuring it's fully coated, then transfer it to the potato starch and coat evenly.
- Heat the oil in a pan over medium-high heat to around 350°F/177°C.
- Fry the shrimp in batches, cooking for about 3 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Mix the sauce by combining mayo, honey, and evaporated milk in a bowl until smooth.
- Sweeten the walnuts by tossing them in a mixing bowl with 2 tablespoons of the prepared sauce.
- Serve the shrimp on a plate, add sweetened walnuts on top, and drizzle with additional sauce. Garnish with chopped scallions.