Homemade Panda-Style Honey Walnut Shrimp

Instructions

1. 1

   **Prepare the Glazed Walnuts:** In a small saucepan, combine sugar and water. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves. Add walnuts and continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the water evaporates and the sugar crystallizes around the walnuts. The sugar will turn opaque and coat the nuts. Remove from heat and spread walnuts on a parchment-lined baking sheet to cool and harden. They will become crunchy as they cool.

2. 2

   **Prepare the Honey Sauce:** In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, honey, sweetened condensed milk, and lemon juice (or rice vinegar) until smooth and well combined. Set aside.

3. 3

   **Prepare the Shrimp:** Pat the shrimp very dry with paper towels. Season with salt and black pepper. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, egg, cold water, and baking powder until a smooth batter forms. The consistency should be like a thick pancake batter, easily coating the shrimp.

4. 4

   **Fry the Shrimp:** Pour vegetable oil into a large Dutch oven or deep skillet to a depth of about 2-3 inches. Heat the oil to 350-375°F (175-190°C) using a kitchen thermometer. Dip each shrimp into the batter, allowing excess to drip off, then carefully lower into the hot oil. Fry in batches for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Do not overcrowd the pan. Use a slotted spoon or spider to remove shrimp and transfer to a wire rack set over paper towels to drain excess oil.

5. 5

   **Assemble the Dish:** In a large bowl, gently toss the warm fried shrimp with the prepared honey sauce until each shrimp is evenly coated.

6. 6

   **Serve:** Transfer the honey walnut shrimp to a serving platter. Garnish generously with the cooled glazed walnuts. Serve immediately with steamed rice and vegetables.