The smell of crispy fried shrimp mingles with a sweet, sticky glaze, welcoming you to a plate of comfort that is both indulgent and satisfying. This recipe for Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp is quick to prepare, taking about 30 minutes from start to finish, and it works beautifully due to the contrast of textures—crunchy walnuts with tender shrimp enveloped in a luscious honey sauce.
This dish is perfect for family dinners or a special occasion when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. You can prepare the honey sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The crispy texture of the fried shrimp perfectly contrasts the creamy sauce.
- It has a delightful sweetness that balances the richness of the dish.
- The quick preparation means you can enjoy gourmet flavor in under 30 minutes.
- The dish is versatile and can be enjoyed as an appetizer or a main course.
What You’ll Need
Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious dish:
For the Honey Sauce
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon sweetened condensed milk
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Shrimp
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup walnuts
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- Oil for frying
For Serving
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Use light mayonnaise for a lighter version.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Maple syrup for honey
- Greek yogurt for mayonnaise
- Pecans instead of walnuts
- Gluten-free cornstarch
How to Make It
Get ready for a mouthwatering experience with these simple steps.
Heat Oil
In a large skillet, heat oil for frying over medium heat until hot.
Make the Honey Sauce
In a bowl, combine honey, mayonnaise, sweetened condensed milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder to create the honey sauce.
Coat and Fry Shrimp
Toss the shrimp in cornstarch until coated. Fry the shrimp in the hot oil until golden brown and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove and drain on paper towels.
Caramelize Walnuts
In the same skillet, add walnuts and stir-fry until golden and caramelized, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
Combine and Serve
Combine the fried shrimp and caramelized walnuts in a large bowl, pour the honey sauce over, and gently toss to coat. Serve garnished with chopped green onions.
How to Store It
Fridge: Store for up to 2 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: No, the shrimp will lose texture.
Reheat: Warm in a skillet over low heat for about 5 minutes.
Tips for Best Results
- Ensure oil is hot enough before frying for crispiness.
- Do not overcrowd the skillet while frying shrimp.
- Toss the shrimp in the sauce just before serving to keep them crispy.
- Use fresh walnuts for the best flavor and crunch.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with steamed rice for a complete meal.
- Pair with a fresh green salad for a lighter option.
- Enjoy as an appetizer at your next gathering.
