If you’re craving a dish that perfectly marries sweet and savory, look no further than this homemade Honey Walnut Shrimp. Inspired by the beloved Panda Express recipe, I discovered how easy it is to whip up this crispy, golden delight in my own kitchen. Imagine the satisfying crunch of perfectly fried shrimp paired with the sweet crunch of candied walnuts, all drizzled in a creamy honey sauce.
One evening, after a monotonous week of takeout, I yearned for something special, yet quick enough for a weeknight dinner. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, this dish became my new favorite. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also impresses guests and guarantees a plate wiped clean!
So, gather your shrimp and let’s create a dish that sparks joy and turns your kitchen into a bustling bistro—all without the hassle of driving to your local restaurant. Join me as we dive into this crowd-pleaser that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds!
Why is Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp a Must-Try?
Deliciously Balanced: The blend of sweet honey, creamy mayo, and salty walnuts creates an explosion of flavors that’s hard to resist.
Effortlessly Simple: With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Crispy Perfection: The shallow frying technique ensures each shrimp is coated to perfection, delivering a delightful crunch.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether you’re hosting friends or treating family, everyone will be raving about this indulgent dish.
Versatile Option: Pair it with fluffy rice or fresh veggies for a complete meal that satisfies all cravings! Enjoy even more inspiration with my Easy Shrimp Recipe Collection for delightful alternatives.
Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp Ingredients
For the Shrimp
• 1 lb extra large shrimp – peeled and deveined, these will be the star of your dish!
• 2 large egg whites – whisked to create a light coating for crispy frying.
• 8 tbsp potato starch – tapioca starch works as a great alternative for perfect crunchiness.
For Cooking
• ⅓ to ½ cup avocado oil – this healthy oil gives a smooth flavor and a high smoke point for frying.
For the Sauce
• 4 tbsp mayo – adds creaminess that balances the sweet and savory elements.
• 1 tbsp honey – or use keto honey for a low-carb option; it’s the secret to a rich flavor!
• 2-2.5 tbsp evaporated milk – or sugar-free coconut condensed milk to keep the sauce creamy.
For Garnishing
• ½ cup walnuts – unsalted and either whole or chopped for that delightful crunch.
• 1 bulb scallion – chopped to sprinkle on top for freshness and color.
How to Make Honey Walnut Shrimp
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Butterfly the Shrimp: Start by making a shallow slit along the back “spine” of each shrimp. This will help them cook faster and enhance their texture.
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Prepare Your Coating Station: Set up three bowls: one for the whisked egg whites, one for the potato starch, and a large plate to catch the shrimp. Dip each shrimp in the egg white, then coat evenly with potato starch.
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Heat the Oil: In a stainless steel or cast iron pan, heat the avocado oil over medium-high heat. Test the temperature around 3 minutes in; it should reach 350°F (177°C) when bubbles form around a wooden chopstick.
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Fry the Shrimp: Work in batches to shallow fry the shrimp for about 3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. Once done, rest them on a wire rack to keep that crunch and drain any excess oil.
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Make the Sauce: In a bowl, combine mayo, honey, and evaporated milk. Stir well until fully blended; this creamy sauce will elevate your dish!
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Candy the Walnuts: In a separate bowl, combine the walnuts with 2 tablespoons of the prepared sauce. Toss them well to coat evenly and add a sweet crunch.
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Assemble the Dish: On a large serving plate, layer the crispy shrimp. Top with the candied walnuts, drizzle with extra honey walnut sauce, and garnish with chopped scallions. Serve hot for the best experience!
Optional: Serve with a side of steamed rice or mixed veggies for a complete meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Honey Walnut Shrimp
• Shrimp Selection: Choose extra large, fresh shrimp for a juicy bite. Frozen shrimp can work but ensure they’re fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.
• Perfect Temperature: Use a thermometer to check the oil temperature; it should be around 350°F (177°C). Too hot can burn the shrimp, while too cool makes them greasy.
• Coating Consistency: Make sure to coat the shrimp evenly with egg and potato starch. A consistent layer helps achieve that delightful crunch typical of Panda Express honey walnut shrimp.
• Batch Cooking: Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying! This maintains the oil’s temperature and ensures each shrimp gets that golden crispy finish.
• Sauce Balance: Adjust the sweetness of the sauce according to your taste. If you prefer it sweeter, add a touch more honey, but be cautious as it can overpower the dish.
Make Ahead Options
These Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts seeking a time-saving solution for busy weeknights! You can prepare the shrimp (butterfly and coat) up to 24 hours in advance by storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator; this will keep them fresh and ready for frying. The honey walnut sauce can also be made ahead (up to 3 days in advance) and stored in a sealed jar, maintaining its creamy texture. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat the oil, fry the shrimp for about 3 minutes on each side, toss the walnuts in the sauce, and assemble your dish for a delightful homemade treat that’s just as delicious!
What to Serve with Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp?
Enhance your dining experience with complementary sides and drinks that elevate this delightful dish.
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Fluffy Jasmine Rice: Acts as a perfect base, soaking up the creamy honey sauce for a comforting balance.
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Stir-Fried Broccoli: This vibrant green veggie adds a crunchy texture while providing a fresh contrast to the sweet shrimp.
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Sesame Noodles: Serve with sesame-infused noodles for a nutty flavor that harmonizes beautifully with the shrimp’s sweetness. Slurping these noodles is pure bliss!
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Crispy Wontons: A delightful appetizer to start your meal; their crunchy texture pairs wonderfully with the tender shrimp.
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Sweet and Sour Cucumber Salad: Refreshing cucumbers tossed in a light dressing create a cooling effect that complements the rich sauce.
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Mango Smoothie: This creamy drink brings tropical sweetness that beautifully contrasts with the savory elements of the dish.
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Lemonade: A tangy, refreshing drink that cuts through the richness, making every bite of honey walnut shrimp even more satisfying.
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Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a light, airy chocolate mousse creates a luscious finish to your meal, balancing the flavors perfectly.
How to Store and Freeze Honey Walnut Shrimp
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to restore crispiness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the fried shrimp and candied walnuts separately in airtight bags for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To re-crisp the shrimp, bake them at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving for best texture.
Sauce Storage: The honey walnut sauce can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 1 week, making it great for future use with this Panda Express honey walnut shrimp recipe!
Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp Variations
Feel free to sprinkle your creativity into this delightful dish, exploring new flavors and textures that excite your palate!
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Gluten-Free: Use cornstarch instead of potato starch for a perfect gluten-free coating that still delivers crunch.
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Coconut Twist: Swap half the mayo for coconut cream to add a tropical touch that complements the shrimp beautifully.
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Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce to the honey walnut sauce, giving your dish a zesty kick without overpowering it.
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Vegetable Medley: Toss in some bell peppers or snap peas during the frying for a colorful, crunchy addition that boosts nutrition.
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Pineapple Burst: Incorporate diced pineapple into the candied walnuts for a sweet-tart contrast that adds delicious flavor layers.
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Sugar-Free Delight: Use a sugar substitute in the sauce to keep things low in calories while still enjoying the decadent flavor.
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Creamy Avocado: For an extra rich texture, blend in some mashed avocado with the mayo and honey for a pleasantly creamy bite.
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Herb Infusion: Mix fresh herbs like cilantro or basil into your sauce for a refreshing and aromatic twist that takes the classic taste to new heights.
Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp Recipe FAQs
How do I select fresh shrimp?
Absolutely! When choosing shrimp, look for those that are firm, translucent, and have a mild ocean smell. Avoid any shrimp that have dark spots or a strong, fishy odor, as that indicates they might be past their prime.
What’s the best way to store leftover Honey Walnut Shrimp?
I recommend storing any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in a skillet over low heat. This helps maintain that delicious crispiness you love!
Can I freeze Honey Walnut Shrimp?
Yes, you can! To freeze, place the fried shrimp and candied walnuts in separate airtight bags. They can last up to 2 months in the freezer. Thaw them overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy them again. For best results, re-crisp the shrimp by baking them at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes, avoiding the microwave.
What should I do if my shrimp turns out greasy?
Very good question! If your shrimp ends up greasy, it could be that the oil temperature was too low during frying. Ensure the oil reaches around 350°F (177°C) before frying; using a thermometer can be really helpful. Additionally, frying in smaller batches can keep the oil temperature consistent.
Is this recipe suitable for people with allergies?
Yes, but be mindful! This recipe contains shrimp, egg whites, and walnuts, which are common allergens. If anyone has nut allergies, you can leave out the walnuts or substitute them with crispy rice or seeds. Always check for any allergies when serving to others!
Can I make a healthier version of the sauce?
Absolutely! For a lighter take, use Greek yogurt instead of mayo for creaminess while cutting down on fat. You can also replace the honey with a sugar substitute like agave syrup or stevia for a lower-calorie option without sacrificing sweetness.
Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp: Your Homemade Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Butterfly the shrimp by making a shallow slit along the back of each.
- Set up three bowls: one for whisked egg whites, one for potato starch, and a plate for the shrimp.
- Heat avocado oil in a pan over medium-high heat, checking temperature around 350°F.
- Fry the shrimp in batches for about 3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
- In a bowl, combine mayo, honey, and evaporated milk. Stir until blended.
- Combine walnuts with 2 tablespoons of the sauce, tossing to coat.
- Assemble dish by layering crispy shrimp, topping with candied walnuts, and drizzling with sauce. Garnish with scallions.