Hot Honey Fried Shrimp

If you’re looking for a dish that brings a delightful mix of flavors and textures, then Hot Honey Fried Shrimp is just the thing! Picture this: large shrimp, perfectly crispy on the outside, tossed in a sweet and spicy hot honey glaze. This recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience you’ll want to share with family and friends. Whether you’re whipping it up for a cozy weeknight dinner or serving it at your next gathering, these shrimp will steal the show!

The best part? You can serve them as an appetizer with extra hot honey for dipping or enjoy them as the main course alongside your favorite sides. No matter how you choose to present them, they are sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With simple steps and quick cooking time, you’ll have this delicious dish ready in no time.
• Family-friendly: The combination of sweet and spicy makes this dish appealing to both kids and adults alike!
• Versatile serving options: Perfect as an appetizer or main course, making it suitable for any occasion.
• Homemade flavor: Using fresh ingredients gives these shrimp a taste that beats takeout every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t need anything fancy to make Hot Honey Fried Shrimp—just some simple and wholesome ingredients! Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Marinade

• 1 pound large shrimp (thawed, peeled, deveined, tail-on)
• 1 cup (245 g) buttermilk

For the Coating

• 1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper

For Frying

• Vegetable oil (for frying)

For Drizzling

• ½ cup (170 g) hot honey (homemade or store-bought)
• Parsley (chopped for garnish)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are a few fun ways to customize your Hot Honey Fried Shrimp:

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken tenders or even tofu for a different twist!
• Change the spice level: Adjust the cayenne pepper based on your heat preference. You can even add more hot honey for extra sweetness!
• Add flavor to the coating: Mix in some dried herbs like oregano or thyme for an aromatic touch.

How to Make Hot Honey Fried Shrimp

Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp

To start off, let’s give our shrimp a little love! Add them to a medium bowl and pour buttermilk over them. This step is crucial because it helps tenderize the shrimp and adds flavor. Let them marinate at room temperature for at least 15 minutes while you prep everything else.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

In another medium bowl, combine flour with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Mixing these dry ingredients together creates a flavorful coating that will make your shrimp extra tasty!

Step 3: Dredge the Shrimp

Now comes the fun part! Take each shrimp out of the marinade one by one, letting any excess liquid drip off. Coat them generously in your flour mixture until they’re fully covered. Placing them on a baking sheet keeps them organized as you work through them.

Step 4: Heat the Oil

In a large pot over medium heat, pour in about 2 inches of vegetable oil. Use a thermometer to bring it up to 350°F—this temperature is key for achieving that perfect crispy texture!

Step 5: Frying Time!

Once your oil is hot enough, carefully transfer your coated shrimp into it. Be sure not to overcrowd the pot; fry in batches if necessary! Frying each batch for about 2-3 minutes until golden brown ensures they come out crispy and delicious.

Step 6: Drizzle with Hot Honey

Using a slotted spoon, remove those beautiful fried shrimp from the oil and place them onto a lined baking sheet. Now it’s time to drizzle them with hot honey—this adds that signature sweet-spicy kick we all love!

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Finish off by garnishing your shrimp with chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve them hot and watch everyone dig in with delight!

Pro Tips for Making Hot Honey Fried Shrimp

Making Hot Honey Fried Shrimp can be a delightful experience, and a few handy tips can take your dish from good to absolutely amazing!

• Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp not only taste better but also provide a firmer texture that holds up well during frying. Opt for shrimp that are firm and have a slight ocean scent.

• Marinate Properly: Marinating the shrimp in buttermilk not only adds flavor but also tenderizes the meat. The acidity in the buttermilk helps create a deliciously crispy coating.

• Temperature Matters: Ensuring your oil is at the right temperature (350°F) is crucial for achieving that perfect crunch. If the oil is too cool, the shrimp will absorb more oil and become greasy; too hot, and they might burn before cooking through.

• Batch Frying: Frying in smaller batches allows for even cooking and prevents the oil temperature from dropping. This will keep your shrimp crispy and golden brown.

• Drizzle Hot Honey Generously: Don’t be shy with the hot honey! A good drizzle not only adds flavor but also creates a beautiful glossy finish that makes your dish visually appealing.

How to Serve Hot Honey Fried Shrimp

Hot Honey Fried Shrimp can be presented in various ways depending on the occasion. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer or making it the star of a meal, here are some ideas to make it shine!

Garnishes

• Chopped Green Onions: Adds a fresh, mild onion flavor that complements the sweetness of the honey.
• Sesame Seeds: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top for an extra crunch and nutty flavor.
• Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the dish and balances out the sweetness.

Side Dishes

• Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw adds a crunchy texture and tangy flavor, making it a perfect contrast to the sweet shrimp.

• Cornbread: Soft, buttery cornbread pairs beautifully and soaks up any leftover hot honey drizzles!

• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like asparagus or broccoli add color and nutrition to your plate while balancing out the richness of the fried shrimp.

• Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf with herbs provides a lovely base for soaking up excess hot honey while adding heartiness to your meal.

Enjoy presenting this dish to friends or family—no matter how you serve it, Hot Honey Fried Shrimp is sure to impress!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Hot Honey Fried Shrimp recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious bites whenever the craving strikes! Whether you’re planning for a gathering or just want some tasty leftovers, follow these tips to keep your shrimp fresh.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the fried shrimp to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container lined with paper towels to absorb excess moisture.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• After frying and cooling, spread the shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy.
• Alternatively, you can use an air fryer at the same temperature for about 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making Hot Honey Fried Shrimp.

Can I make Hot Honey Fried Shrimp without buttermilk?

Yes! If you don’t have buttermilk, you can substitute it with regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for a few minutes before using it as a marinade.

How spicy is Hot Honey Fried Shrimp?

The level of spiciness in Hot Honey Fried Shrimp largely depends on the amount of cayenne pepper used in the flour mixture and the hot honey itself. You can adjust the cayenne to your taste or opt for a milder hot honey if preferred!

Can I prepare Hot Honey Fried Shrimp ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the shrimp and coat them in flour ahead of time. Just store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to fry!

What should I serve with Hot Honey Fried Shrimp?

Hot Honey Fried Shrimp pairs wonderfully with coleslaw, rice, or even sweet potato fries. Feel free to get creative with sides that complement its sweet and spicy flavors!

How do I ensure my fried shrimp are crispy?

To achieve perfectly crispy fried shrimp, be sure your oil is hot enough (around 350°F) before adding the shrimp. Frying them in batches will also help maintain oil temperature and avoid steaming.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Hot Honey Fried Shrimp recipe brings joy and flavor into your kitchen! The combination of sweetness and spice is simply irresistible, making it a favorite at any gathering or dinner table. Enjoy making this dish as much as I do, and I can’t wait for you to share it with family and friends. Happy cooking!