Craving that sweet and savory Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp but don't want to leave the house? This recipe lets you recreate this delicious dish in your own kitchen, saving you money and offering a healthier, customizable alternative. Get ready for a burst of flavor in every bite – this easy recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend treat. It's one of those delicious dishes that's easier to make than you think!
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)
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For the Garnish:
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts, toasted
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- Sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions:
Preparing the Shrimp:
- Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. This helps them crisp up nicely when frying.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the cornstarch, flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated.
Frying the Shrimp:
- Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. The oil is ready when a pinch of flour dropped into it sizzles immediately.
- Carefully add the shrimp to the hot oil in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Overcrowding will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy shrimp.
- Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Making the Honey Walnut Sauce:
- In a small saucepan, combine the honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
Combining and Serving:
- Add the fried shrimp to the honey walnut sauce and toss gently to coat.
- Garnish with toasted walnuts, green onions, and sesame seeds (if using).
- Serve immediately over rice or noodles for a complete and satisfying meal.
Tips and Variations:
- Toasting Walnuts: For the best flavor and crunch, toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant and lightly browned.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your liking. For a milder dish, omit them entirely.
- Protein Swap: Substitute chicken or tofu for the shrimp. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Make it Ahead: The honey walnut sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on serving size and ingredients used. For a more precise calculation, use a nutrition calculator website and input your specific ingredients. Expect a moderate calorie count with a good source of protein and healthy fats from the nuts.
This homemade Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp recipe is a fantastic alternative to takeout, offering a healthier and more customizable option. It's a quick dinner idea perfect for busy weeknights and impressive enough for a special occasion. Enjoy!