Master the secret of panda express: honey walnut shrimp recipe made easy

Craving the irresistible combination of crispy shrimp, candied walnuts, and a tantalizing honey sauce? We’ve got you covered! This comprehensive guide will unveil the secrets behind Panda Express’s iconic Honey Walnut Shrimp recipe, empowering you to recreate this culinary masterpiece in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 cup vegetable oil, for frying

For the Honey Sauce:

• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon ketchup
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger

For the Candied Walnuts:

• 1 cup walnut halves
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1 tablespoon sugar

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Shrimp:

• In a medium bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, salt, and pepper.
• Dip the shrimp into the beaten egg, then coat them in the flour mixture.

2. Fry the Shrimp:

• Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
• Carefully add the shrimp to the hot oil and fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
• Remove the shrimp from the oil and drain on paper towels.

3. Make the Honey Sauce:

• In a saucepan, combine the honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, ketchup, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger.
• Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
• Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.

4. Candy the Walnuts:

• In a small saucepan, combine the walnuts, honey, and sugar.
• Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the honey has caramelized and the walnuts are coated.
• Remove from heat and spread the walnuts on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet to cool.

5. Assemble the Dish:

• In a large bowl, combine the fried shrimp, honey sauce, and candied walnuts.
• Toss to coat the shrimp evenly.

6. Serve and Enjoy:

• Serve the Honey Walnut Shrimp immediately with steamed rice or your favorite side dish.

Tips for Success:

• To make the shrimp extra crispy, double-coat them in the flour mixture.
• If the honey sauce is too thick, add a little water or rice vinegar to thin it out.
• The candied walnuts can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container at room temperature.
• For a healthier option, bake the shrimp in the oven at 400°F for 10-12 minutes instead of frying them.

Variations:

• Add 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper or green onions to the honey sauce for a pop of color and flavor.
• Substitute the walnuts with pecans or almonds for a different texture.
• Serve the Honey Walnut Shrimp with a side of sweet and sour sauce for dipping.

The Science Behind the Flavor:

The unique flavor of Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp comes from the combination of sweet, savory, and umami flavors. The honey and brown sugar provide sweetness, while the soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil add a savory balance. The walnuts add a nutty crunch and a subtle bitterness that complements the sweetness of the dish.

Perfecting Your Honey Walnut Shrimp:

With practice, you’ll master the art of making Honey Walnut Shrimp that rivals the original. Experiment with different ingredients and proportions to find what suits your taste buds best. Remember, cooking is an art form that allows for creativity and experimentation.

Final Note:

Indulge in the sweet and savory symphony of Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp, now made possible in the comfort of your own home. With this comprehensive guide, you’ll impress your family and friends with this culinary masterpiece. So, gather your ingredients, crank up the heat, and embark on a culinary adventure that will leave your taste buds craving more.

Frequently Asked Questions:

• Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just thaw them completely before using.

• How do I make sure the shrimp are cooked through?

Fry the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. You can also check the internal temperature using a meat thermometer. It should read 145°F.

• My honey sauce is too thick. What can I do?

Add a little water or rice vinegar to thin it out.

• Can I make the candied walnuts ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the candied walnuts ahead of time and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

• What side dishes go well with Honey Walnut Shrimp?

Steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or egg rolls are all great side dishes for Honey Walnut Shrimp.