Hey there! I’ve tried the new Chili Crisp Shrimp at Panda Express and lemme tell you – it’s got a kick, but don’t worry, it won’t set your mouth on fire! Let’s break down everything you need to know about this awesome new menu item that’s available until December 2023.
The Quick Answer
Yes, Panda Express Chili Crisp Shrimp is moderately spicy It’s got enough heat to wake up your taste buds but won’t have you running for a glass of milk The spiciness comes from the chili crisp sauce, which is made with chili flakes, garlic, and aromatics in oil.
What Makes It Spicy?
The spiciness in this dish comes from a few key elements
- Chili crisp sauce (the star ingredient!)
- Red bell peppers
- Wok-fried preparation method
- Garlic and onion aromatics
Spice Level Comparison
If you’re wondering how it compares to other Panda Express dishes
- Milder than: Kung Pao Chicken
- Spicier than: Orange Chicken
- Overall spice level: Moderate
The Taste Experience
When I tried it, here’s what I noticed:
- Crispy texture (even after sitting under heat lamps!)
- Plenty of visible chili flakes
- Not overwhelmingly greasy (which is impressive!)
- Nice balance of flavors from:
- Savory shrimp
- Sweet bell peppers
- Garlicky chili crisp
- Crunchy onions
Tips for Spice-Sensitive People
If you’re worried about the heat, here’s what you can do:
- Ask for less chili crisp sauce
- Order rice or noodles on the side
- Have dairy products ready (they help with heat better than water!)
- Mix it with milder dishes to tone down the spiciness
What Makes This Dish Special?
The real MVP here is the chili crisp – it’s that trendy Chinese condiment everyone’s been obsessing over lately. Panda Express finally jumped on the bandwagon and BOY did they do it right! The sauce includes:
- Crushed chili flakes
- Crispy fried garlic
- Onions
- Shallots
- Flavorful oil base
Pro Tips for Ordering
- Best eaten fresh while still hot
- Pairs great with:
- Steamed rice
- Chow mein
- Spring rolls
- Available until December 2023 (so don’t wait too long!)
Nutritional Considerations
Just heads up for those with dietary restrictions:
- Contains shellfish (obvs, it’s shrimp!)
- May contain soy
- Possible wheat ingredients
- Could have sesame oil
My Personal Take
Ngl, I wasn’t the biggest Panda Express fan before (Orange Chicken isn’t really my thing), but this Chili Crisp Shrimp? It’s a total game-changer! The balance of heat and flavor is spot on, and the textures are chef’s kiss.
The Bottom Line
If you’re on the fence about trying it – DO IT! It’s got just enough spice to make it interesting without being overwhelming. Plus, it’s a limited-time thing, so you don’t wanna miss out. Trust me, this might become your new fave Panda Express order (it’s definitely become mine!).
FAQs
Q: Can I make it less spicy?
A: Yep! Just ask them to go easy on the chili crisp sauce.
Q: Is it actually crispy?
A: Sure is! Even after sitting out a bit, the shrimp maintains its crunch.
Q: How long will it be available?
A: Until the end of December 2023.
Q: Is there a vegetarian version?
A: Not currently at Panda Express, but you could probably make something similar at home with plant-based alternatives.
Remember, spiciness is super subjective – what’s mild for some might be hot for others. But from my experience and what I’ve heard from others, this dish hits that sweet spot of being flavorful with just enough heat to make it interesting!
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