Honey walnut shrimp is a popular dish that has become a favorite in many Chinese-American restaurants. Its unique combination of sweet and savory flavors, crunchy walnuts, and tender shrimp make it an irresistible choice for many diners. But what exactly is honey walnut shrimp made of, and why has it become so beloved? In this article, we delve into the origins, recipes, and even some fun facts about this delightful dish.
What Is Honey Walnut Shrimp Made Of?
Honey walnut shrimp typically consists of lightly battered and fried shrimp, which are then coated in a sweet and creamy sauce made from mayonnaise, honey, and sweetened condensed milk. The dish is garnished with candied walnuts, adding a crunchy texture that perfectly complements the tender shrimp. Sometimes, broccoli or steamed vegetables are served alongside to balance the richness of the sauce.
The key ingredients that make honey walnut shrimp distinct include:
- Shrimp: Fresh, plump shrimp are essential for this dish. They are usually peeled and deveined before being coated in a light batter.
- Candied Walnuts: Walnuts are coated in a sugary glaze, which gives them a sweet and crunchy texture.
- Honey Sauce: This is a creamy mixture typically made with mayonnaise, honey, sweetened condensed milk, and sometimes a touch of lemon juice for acidity.
Is Honey Walnut Shrimp Good Panda?
The phrase “good panda” seems to refer to the popular fast-food chain, Panda Express, which is well-known for its version of honey walnut shrimp. Panda Express’s take on the dish is often praised for its balance of flavors and textures. The shrimp are tender and juicy, while the sauce is rich and slightly tangy, offset by the sweetness of the honey and the crunch of the candied walnuts.
Many fans of Panda Express consider honey walnut shrimp to be one of the standout items on the menu. However, as with any fast food, it’s essential to enjoy it in moderation, considering its high calorie and fat content.
What Is Another Name for Walnut Shrimp?
Honey walnut shrimp is sometimes simply referred to as “walnut shrimp.” While this name might not fully capture the essence of the dish, it is commonly used in many restaurants. The dish is also occasionally labeled as “creamy walnut shrimp” or “candied walnut shrimp,” highlighting the creamy sauce and the sweet, candied nuts that are key components.
When Did Panda Express Introduce Honey Walnut Shrimp?
Panda Express introduced honey walnut shrimp in 2010 as a limited-time offering. The dish quickly gained popularity, becoming a permanent menu item due to high demand. Its introduction was part of Panda Express’s efforts to diversify their menu and offer more unique, flavorful dishes beyond traditional American-Chinese fare like orange chicken and beef with broccoli.
The success of honey walnut shrimp at Panda Express can be attributed to its broad appeal, combining familiar ingredients with a novel twist that intrigues the palate.
Honey Walnut Shrimp Recipes
There are many ways to prepare honey walnut shrimp, ranging from traditional methods to modern adaptations using various kitchen gadgets. Here’s an easy honey walnut shrimp recipe you can try at home:
Easy Honey Walnut Shrimp Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup walnuts
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons sweetened condensed milk
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 cup cornstarch
- Oil for frying
Instructions:
- Candied Walnuts: In a small saucepan, combine sugar and water. Bring to a boil, then add walnuts. Boil for 2 minutes, drain and place walnuts on a baking sheet to dry.
- Shrimp Preparation: Coat shrimp in cornstarch. Heat oil in a pan and fry shrimp until golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Sauce: In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, honey, sweetened condensed milk, and lemon juice.
- Combine: Toss fried shrimp in the sauce. Garnish with candied walnuts and serve.
This simple recipe captures the essence of honey walnut shrimp, making it a great choice for a homemade treat.
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Honey Walnut Shrimp Panda Express Recipe
If you’re a fan of the honey walnut shrimp from Panda Express, you might be interested in trying to recreate the dish at home. While the official recipe is proprietary, many home cooks have attempted to replicate it with great success. The key is to balance the sweetness of the sauce with a slight tang and to achieve a perfect crunch on the shrimp.
Here’s a suggested recipe that mimics the flavors of the Panda Express version:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup walnuts
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons sweetened condensed milk
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 cup cornstarch
- Oil for frying
Instructions:
- Prepare the Walnuts: Boil sugar and water, add walnuts, and cook for 2 minutes. Drain and let them dry.
- Coat and Fry the Shrimp: Dip shrimp in cornstarch and fry until crispy. Drain excess oil.
- Make the Sauce: Mix mayonnaise, honey, condensed milk, and rice vinegar.
- Assemble: Mix the shrimp with the sauce and top with candied walnuts.
This recipe aims to bring the restaurant experience home, providing a delicious homemade alternative.
Honey Walnut Shrimp Air Fryer
For those who prefer a lighter version of honey walnut shrimp, using an air fryer can be an excellent option. The air fryer allows you to achieve a crispy texture without deep frying, significantly reducing the amount of oil used.
Here’s how you can make honey walnut shrimp using an air fryer:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup walnuts
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons sweetened condensed milk
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Cooking spray
Instructions:
- Candy the Walnuts: Boil sugar and water, add walnuts, cook for 2 minutes, and then dry.
- Prepare the Shrimp: Coat shrimp in panko breadcrumbs. Place in an air fryer basket and spray lightly with cooking spray.
- Air Fry: Cook at 400°F for 5-7 minutes or until golden brown.
- Sauce: Mix mayonnaise, honey, sweetened condensed milk, and lemon juice.
- Combine: Toss shrimp in the sauce and garnish with walnuts.
Using an air fryer not only makes the dish healthier but also simplifies the cooking process, making it an excellent option for quick weeknight meals.
Honey Walnut Shrimp Sauce
The sauce is arguably the most critical component of honey walnut shrimp, giving the dish its distinctive flavor. A classic honey walnut shrimp sauce is creamy, sweet, and slightly tangy, complementing the fried shrimp and candied walnuts.
Basic Sauce Ingredients:
- Mayonnaise: Provides creaminess and a slight tang.
- Honey: Adds sweetness.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: Contributes richness and a deeper sweetness.
- Lemon Juice or Rice Vinegar: Adds acidity to balance the sweetness.
The sauce is typically mixed and then tossed with the cooked shrimp, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Some variations might include additional ingredients like soy sauce, ginger, or garlic for extra flavor complexity.
Honey Walnut Shrimp Origin
The origins of honey walnut shrimp are somewhat obscure, but it is widely believed to be a fusion dish, combining elements of Chinese and American cuisines. It likely originated in the United States, where chefs adapted traditional Chinese cooking methods to suit American tastes.
The use of mayonnaise and sweetened condensed milk suggests an American influence, as these ingredients are not commonly used in traditional Chinese cuisine. The dish has since become a staple in many Chinese-American restaurants, especially in areas with significant Chinese-American populations.
Conclusion
Honey walnut shrimp is a delectable dish that offers a unique blend of flavors and textures. Whether you enjoy it at a restaurant like Panda Express or make it at home, this dish is sure to delight your taste buds. With its origins rooted in fusion cuisine, honey walnut shrimp continues to be a favorite among food enthusiasts, offering a perfect combination of sweet, savory, and crunchy elements.