Copycat Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp
Ingredients
- 1 cup walnut pieces
- 1 cup water
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 10 ounces tempura mix
- Vegetable oil
for frying
- 1 pound medium or large shrimp
peeled and deveined, tails removed
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon sweetened condensed milk
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
Directions
- 1
Place the walnuts in a saucepan with water and sugar. Cook over medium to medium-high heat until the sugar begins to brown. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil and pour the walnuts onto the paper or the foil and let dry for 20 to 25 minutes, spreading them out with a fork so they don’t touch each other. When the walnuts are almost dry, begin to prepare the tempura according to the package directions. Add enough oil to a pan to cover the bottom 2 to 3 inches; heat the oil to 350 ºF. Dip the shrimp into the tempura batter, covering the shrimp completely. Drop into the hot oil a few at a time and gently toss to make sure the shrimp cook evenly on all sides and they don’t stick together. Scoop out any batter that floats away from the shrimp to keep the oil from breaking down. Remove the shrimp after about 2 minutes and transfer to a wire rack to drain. To make the sauce, whisk together the honey, sweetened condensed milk, lemon juice, and mayonnaise. When all the shrimp are cooked, place it in a bowl and drizzle on the sauce. Stir to coat the shrimp, but be careful not to break off the crust. Sprinkle the candied walnuts over the shrimp and serve immediately. This recipe should be eaten in one sitting – this recipe does not reheat or freeze well.
Copycat Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp
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About this Recipe
Craving that irresistible sweet and savory crunch of your favorite takeout dish? You can now bring the magic of Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp right into your own kitchen with this incredible copycat recipe. It's surprisingly simple to recreate the classic flavors and textures you love, ensuring a restaurant-quality meal without the wait or the price tag.
What makes this recipe truly special is the perfect harmony of textures and tastes. You'll master the technique for creating perfectly crispy shrimp, then coat them in a luscious, creamy sauce that strikes a delightful balance between sweet and tangy. Paired with candied walnuts that offer a satisfying crunch, every bite is an authentic echo of the original.
Get ready for a culinary experience that brightens any weeknight or special occasion. You can expect shrimp that are wonderfully light and crunchy, enveloped in a smooth, vibrant honey sauce. The candied walnuts aren't just a garnish; they add a crucial layer of sweetness and a distinct nutty bite that elevates the entire dish. This recipe promises a satisfying and flavorful meal, making it a fantastic centerpiece for your dinner table.
Feel free to experiment with this recipe to suit your preferences. While walnuts are traditional, you could try pecans for a slightly different nutty profile in the candied preparation. For a touch of heat, a tiny pinch of red pepper flakes could be stirred into the sauce. If you prefer a less sweet sauce, you can slightly reduce the amount of sweetened condensed milk, adjusting to your taste. For another twist, consider a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for an extra aromatic finish.
This Copycat Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp is perfect for a comforting family dinner or a delightful treat when entertaining friends. Serve it alongside some steamed rice and a simple stir-fried vegetable for a complete and satisfying meal that will impress everyone.