Hot Honey Fried Shrimp

Hot Honey Fried Shrimp is a delicious and exciting dish that will elevate any meal. With its crispy texture and the perfect balance of sweet and spicy from the hot honey, this recipe is great for appetizers, main courses, or even party platters. You’ll love how simple it is to prepare, making it a go-to option for gatherings or family dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy Deliciousness: The shrimp are fried to golden perfection, providing a satisfying crunch with every bite.
• Sweet and Spicy Flavor: The homemade hot honey adds a unique kick that complements the shrimp beautifully.
• Quick Preparation: With just 28 minutes from start to finish, this dish is perfect for busy nights or last-minute guests.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy as an appetizer, main course, or even as a topping on salads or tacos.
• Simple Ingredients: Most ingredients are pantry staples, making it easy to whip up whenever a craving strikes.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Hot Honey Fried Shrimp effectively, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment will ensure your cooking process goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Deep fryer or large pot
• Slotted spoon
• Candy or deep-fry thermometer
• Medium bowls
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Deep fryer or large pot: Essential for achieving the right temperature for frying, ensuring crispy shrimp.
• Slotted spoon: Perfect for removing shrimp from hot oil without excess grease.
• Candy or deep-fry thermometer: Guarantees your oil reaches the correct temperature for optimal frying results.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp

• 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 Finishing Touches

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

How to Make Hot Honey Fried Shrimp

Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp

1. To a medium bowl, add shrimp. Pour the buttermilk over the shrimp, making sure to coat each one evenly.
2. Marinate at room temperature for at least 15 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Breading

1. In a separate medium bowl, combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
2. Mix thoroughly to ensure all seasonings are evenly distributed. Set aside.

Step 3: Coat the Shrimp

1. Working one shrimp at a time, remove it from the marinade and let any excess liquid drip off.
2. Dredge the shrimp generously in the seasoned flour mixture until well coated.
3. Place coated shrimp on a large baking sheet and repeat with remaining shrimp.

Step 4: Heat Oil for Frying

1. In a large pot over medium heat, add about 2 inches of vegetable oil.
2. Use a candy or deep-fry thermometer to bring oil to a temperature of 350°F.

Step 5: Fry the Shrimp

1. Line another baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
2. Once oil is ready, tap off excess flour from each shrimp and carefully transfer them into the hot oil in batches to avoid overcrowding.
3. Fry for 2-3 minutes while turning occasionally until golden brown and crispy.

Step 6: Drizzle with Hot Honey and Serve

1. Using a slotted spoon, remove fried shrimp from oil and place them on the lined baking sheet.
2. Drizzle generously with hot honey and garnish with chopped parsley before serving hot.

With this easy recipe for Hot Honey Fried Shrimp at your fingertips, you can impress your friends and family any day of the week! Enjoy!

How to Serve Hot Honey Fried Shrimp

Hot Honey Fried Shrimp is versatile and can be served in various delightful ways. Whether you want to impress guests or enjoy a cozy dinner at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your experience.

As an Appetizer

• Serve with extra hot honey for dipping to enhance the sweet and spicy flavors.
• Pair with fresh lemon wedges to add a zesty contrast to the richness.

Over a Salad

• Toss the fried shrimp on top of a mixed green salad for a crunchy, protein-packed meal.
• Add avocado slices and cherry tomatoes for extra freshness.

With Rice or Quinoa

• Place the shrimp over fluffy rice or quinoa, drizzling more hot honey on top for a delicious glaze.
• Consider adding steamed vegetables on the side for a balanced plate.

In Tacos

• Use warm corn tortillas as a base, layering shrimp with slaw and avocado for tasty tacos.
• Drizzle with additional hot honey and lime juice for a zesty kick.

On Skewers

• Thread fried shrimp onto skewers with bell peppers and onions for easy serving.
• Brush with more hot honey before grilling briefly for added flavor.

How to Perfect Hot Honey Fried Shrimp

Creating the perfect Hot Honey Fried Shrimp requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh shrimp will yield the best flavor and texture, making your dish truly stand out.
• Marinate Properly: Allowing shrimp to marinate in buttermilk enhances tenderness and adds great flavor.
• Monitor Oil Temperature: Keeping oil at 350°F ensures crispy frying; use a thermometer for accuracy.
• Fry in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the pot, as this can lower oil temperature and lead to soggy shrimp.
• Drain Excess Oil: Placing fried shrimp on parchment paper helps remove excess oil while keeping them crispy.

Best Side Dishes for Hot Honey Fried Shrimp

Complementing your Hot Honey Fried Shrimp with delicious sides can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:

1. Coleslaw
   A crunchy coleslaw adds freshness and balances the richness of the fried shrimp.
2. Garlic Bread
   Warm garlic bread provides a comforting side that pairs well with the sweet and spicy flavors.
3. Crispy Sweet Potato Fries
   The natural sweetness of sweet potato fries complements hot honey perfectly, creating delightful contrasts.
4. Steamed Broccoli
   Lightly steamed broccoli offers color and nutrition, making it an excellent healthy choice.
5. Corn on the Cob
   Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness that pairs well with the spicy notes of the shrimp.
6. Cilantro Lime Rice
   Fluffy rice flavored with cilantro and lime adds brightness while soaking up any extra hot honey drizzle.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Frying shrimp may seem straightforward, but it’s easy to make common mistakes. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Bold preparation: Skipping the marination step can lead to bland shrimp. Be sure to marinate in buttermilk for at least 15 minutes for maximum flavor.
• Bold oil temperature: Not using a thermometer can result in improperly cooked shrimp. Always check that your oil is at 350°F before frying.
• Bold overcrowding the pan: Frying too many shrimp at once makes for soggy results. Fry in small batches to ensure crispy perfection.
• Bold neglecting excess flour: Leaving excess flour on the shrimp can lead to a gummy coating. Tap off any extra flour before frying.
• Bold skipping garnishes: Forgetting to garnish with parsley can make your dish look less appealing. A sprinkle of fresh herbs enhances both flavor and presentation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover shrimp in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 2 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Hot Honey Fried Shrimp

• Place cooled shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Hot Honey Fried Shrimp

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Place shrimp on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-12 minutes until crispy.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate and cover it loosely. Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds until warmed through, though this may affect crispiness.
• Stovetop: Heat a little oil in a skillet over medium heat and add shrimp. Sauté for about 3-5 minutes until heated through and crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re wondering more about Hot Honey Fried Shrimp, here are some common questions:

What is Hot Honey Fried Shrimp?

Hot Honey Fried Shrimp is a delicious dish featuring crispy fried shrimp tossed in sweet and spicy hot honey, perfect as an appetizer or main meal.

How do I make the hot honey sauce?

You can make hot honey by combining honey with red pepper flakes or sauce. Adjust the spice level according to your preference!

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just ensure they are fully thawed, peeled, and deveined before marinating and frying for the best results.

What side dishes pair well with Hot Honey Fried Shrimp?

Consider serving it with coleslaw, rice, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal that balances flavors and textures.

Final Thoughts

Hot Honey Fried Shrimp is not only a crowd-pleaser but also versatile enough for any occasion. Feel free to customize the heat level by adjusting the amount of cayenne or adding more spices to suit your taste buds. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a favorite!

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Hot Honey Fried Shrimp

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Hot Honey Fried Shrimp is a mouthwatering dish that combines crispy fried shrimp with a delicious sweet and spicy hot honey glaze. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe is quick and easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for appetizers, main courses, or party platters. The succulent shrimp coated in a flavorful breading are sure to impress your family and friends. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can whip up this delightful dish in under 30 minutes. Serve it as an appetizer with extra hot honey for dipping, toss it on salads for added crunch, or enjoy it over rice for a satisfying meal. This versatile recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

• Total Time: 28 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound large shrimp (thawed, peeled, deveined)
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup 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
• vegetable oil (for frying)
• ½ cup hot honey
• chopped parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Marinate shrimp in buttermilk for at least 15 minutes.
2. In another bowl, mix flour and spices.
3. Coat shrimp in the seasoned flour mixture.
4. Heat vegetable oil in a pot to 350°F.
5. Fry shrimp in batches for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove from oil and drizzle with hot honey; garnish with parsley before serving.

• Author: Dahlia
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 13 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 5 fried shrimp (150g)
• Calories: 340
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 700mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 16g
• Cholesterol: 160mg

Keywords: Ensure the oil temperature is monitored closely for perfectly crispy shrimp. Adjust the cayenne pepper to control the spice level according to your preference. For added flavor, try incorporating different spices into the coating mixture.