Craving that sweet and savory Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp but don't want to leave the house? This easy recipe lets you recreate the magic of that iconic dish right in your own kitchen! Get ready for a delicious and satisfying meal that's surprisingly simple to make. This recipe is perfect for a quick dinner idea or a special occasion – everyone will be impressed.
Ingredients:
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For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Vegetable oil, for frying
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For the Honey Walnut Sauce:
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup walnut halves, toasted
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. In a medium bowl, whisk together the cornstarch, flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Add the shrimp and toss to coat evenly.
Step 2: Fry the Shrimp
Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot (a small piece of shrimp should sizzle immediately), carefully add the shrimp in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the shrimp with a slotted spoon and place them on a wire rack to drain excess oil.
Step 3: Make the Honey Walnut Sauce
While the shrimp are frying, prepare the sauce. In a small saucepan, combine the honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly, until slightly thickened – about 2-3 minutes.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
Add the toasted walnuts to the honey walnut sauce and stir to coat. Add the fried shrimp to the sauce and toss gently to coat evenly. Serve immediately over rice for a complete and satisfying meal.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Frying the shrimp in batches ensures even cooking and prevents the oil temperature from dropping too much.
- Toast the walnuts: Toasting the walnuts enhances their flavor and adds a nice crunch. Simply spread them on a baking sheet and toast in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until fragrant.
- Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder sauce, reduce or omit the red pepper flakes.
Variations:
- Add some veggies: Include broccoli florets or sliced bell peppers during the last minute of frying the shrimp for added nutrition and flavor.
- Use different nuts: Substitute pecans or cashews for walnuts, if desired.
- Make it spicier: Add a dash of sriracha or your favorite hot sauce to the honey walnut sauce for an extra kick.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is based on a 4-serving recipe and may vary depending on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 400-450
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This homemade Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp recipe delivers big on flavor and is much easier to make than you might think. It's a perfect example of how delicious and healthy meals can be created with simple ingredients and a little bit of effort. Enjoy!