Hot Honey Fried Shrimp
Hot Honey Fried Shrimp is the perfect combination of crispy, sweet, and spicy flavors, making it an irresistible crowd-pleaser. These golden-fried shrimp are coated in a flavorful batter, fried to crunchy perfection, and then drizzled with a mouthwatering hot honey glaze. Whether served as an appetizer, a main dish, or part of a party platter, this dish offers a delicious kick that will leave everyone asking for seconds. It’s quick to prepare, easy to customize, and delivers bold flavors with every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The blend of sweet honey and spicy hot sauce creates an unforgettable taste experience.
- Quick to Prepare: With only 30 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up this dish easily for any occasion.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy Hot Honey Fried Shrimp as an appetizer, main course, or on a party platter.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves fried shrimp! This recipe is sure to impress your guests and family alike.
- Customizable Heat Levels: Adjust the hot sauce to suit your taste—make it mild or fiery!
Tools and Preparation
To make Hot Honey Fried Shrimp successfully, you will need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Deep frying pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Tongs
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Deep frying pan: This tool allows for even cooking and helps achieve that perfect crispy texture.
- Mixing bowls: Useful for preparing the batter and marinating shrimp without making a mess.
- Tongs: Ideal for flipping shrimp safely in the hot oil without burning your hands.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Coating
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
For Frying and Glaze
- Vegetable oil for frying
- ½ cup honey
- 2-3 tablespoons hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
How to Make Hot Honey Fried Shrimp
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Start by rinsing the shrimp under cold water. Pat them dry with paper towels.
Step 2: Season the Shrimp
In a mixing bowl, combine garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss the shrimp in this mixture until they are evenly coated.
Step 3: Set Up Breading Stations
Prepare three separate bowls:
1. In one bowl, place flour.
2. In another bowl, pour buttermilk.
3. In the last bowl, add panko breadcrumbs.
Step 4: Bread the Shrimp
Take each seasoned shrimp and dip it into the flour first. Shake off any excess flour before dipping it into the buttermilk. Finally, coat it with panko breadcrumbs until fully covered.
Step 5: Heat Oil
In a deep frying pan over medium heat, add enough vegetable oil for frying (about 2 inches). Heat until it’s shimmering but not smoking.
Step 6: Fry the Shrimp
Carefully place breaded shrimp into the hot oil in batches. Fry for about 2–3 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy. Use tongs to turn them gently.
Step 7: Prepare Hot Honey Glaze
In a small saucepan over low heat, combine honey, hot sauce (to taste), butter, red pepper flakes (if using), and apple cider vinegar. Stir until melted together.
Step 8: Drizzle and Serve
Once cooked, remove shrimp from oil and drain on paper towels. Drizzle hot honey glaze over them before serving warm.
This recipe will surely become a favorite in your household! Enjoy your Hot Honey Fried Shrimp at your next gathering or as a special treat.
How to Serve Hot Honey Fried Shrimp
Hot Honey Fried Shrimp is a versatile dish that can be served in many delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a casual meal, these shrimp can elevate any occasion.
As an Appetizer
- Serve with toothpicks for easy snacking at parties.
- Pair with a zesty dipping sauce like ranch or blue cheese.
In Tacos
- Use corn tortillas and top with slaw for a crunchy texture.
- Drizzle extra hot honey on top for added flavor.
Over Rice
- Place the shrimp over a bed of fluffy jasmine or basmati rice.
- Add stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.
On a Salad
- Toss the fried shrimp on mixed greens with a light vinaigrette.
- Include avocado and cucumber for freshness.
With Dipping Sauces
- Offer various sauces like sriracha, aioli, or sweet chili sauce.
- Encourage guests to mix and match flavors.
How to Perfect Hot Honey Fried Shrimp
Perfecting your Hot Honey Fried Shrimp takes a few simple tricks. Follow these tips to enhance your dish.
- Choose quality shrimp: Fresh, large shrimp make all the difference in taste and texture.
- Use cold buttermilk: This helps create a crispy batter when frying.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Fry in batches to maintain oil temperature and achieve even crispiness.
- Let them drain: After frying, allow the shrimp to rest on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
- Adjust heat levels: Experiment with the amount of hot sauce in your glaze for personalized spice levels.
- Garnish wisely: A sprinkle of fresh herbs or lime zest brings brightness to the dish.
Best Side Dishes for Hot Honey Fried Shrimp
Pairing side dishes with Hot Honey Fried Shrimp enhances its flavor profile. Here are some excellent options:
- Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy side that complements the sweetness of the shrimp.
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness and pairs perfectly with spicy flavors.
- Garlic Bread: Warm, buttered garlic bread is ideal for soaking up any extra hot honey glaze.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness balances the heat from the shrimp nicely.
- Coconut Rice: Creamy coconut rice provides a rich backdrop against spicy notes.
- Pickled Vegetables: The acidity cuts through richness and adds brightness to each bite.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Hot Honey Fried Shrimp, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
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Skipping the seasoning: Forgetting to season the shrimp can lead to bland flavors. Always season your shrimp with spices like garlic powder and smoked paprika before frying.
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Using the wrong oil temperature: If the oil isn’t hot enough, the shrimp will absorb too much oil and become greasy. Ensure your oil reaches about 350°F (175°C) for perfect frying.
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Not letting the batter rest: Rushing this step can affect the texture of your fried shrimp. Allow the batter to sit for a few minutes; this helps achieve a lighter coating.
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Overcrowding the pan: Frying too many shrimp at once can lower the oil temperature significantly. Fry in batches to maintain crispiness and even cooking.
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Ignoring the glaze: Skipping the hot honey glaze means missing out on that essential sweet and spicy kick. Drizzle it generously over your fried shrimp right before serving.
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Serving without sides: Hot Honey Fried Shrimp is delicious on its own, but serving it with complementary sides can elevate your meal. Consider pairing with coleslaw or rice.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Hot Honey Fried Shrimp in an airtight container.
- They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge.
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 for up to 2 months.
Reheating Hot Honey Fried Shrimp
- Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Use medium heat for 1-2 minutes, but be mindful as this may make them less crispy.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and re-fry until crispy again, usually around 3-5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Hot Honey Fried Shrimp unique?
Hot Honey Fried Shrimp stands out due to its combination of crispy batter and a sweet-spicy honey glaze that elevates traditional fried shrimp.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just thaw them completely before preparing your Hot Honey Fried Shrimp.
How do I customize my Hot Honey Fried Shrimp?
You can adjust the level of heat by changing the amount of hot sauce or adding more red pepper flakes if you like it spicier!
What are good sides for Hot Honey Fried Shrimp?
Consider serving it with coleslaw, rice, or even a fresh salad for a balanced meal that complements the dish perfectly.
Final Thoughts
Hot Honey Fried Shrimp delivers an irresistible combination of flavors that is sure to appeal to everyone. Its versatility allows you to serve it as an appetizer or main dish, making it suitable for any occasion. Feel free to customize the spice levels or experiment with different sides; this dish is bound to impress!
Hot Honey Fried Shrimp
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Description
Indulge in the mouthwatering experience of Hot Honey Fried Shrimp, where crispy battered shrimp meet a sweet and spicy honey glaze. This crowd-pleasing dish is perfect for any occasion, whether as an appetizer or a main course. With its delightful contrast of flavors and textures, every bite promises a satisfying crunch and a kick of heat that will leave your guests clamoring for more. Quick to prepare in just 30 minutes, this recipe is easily customizable to suit all taste preferences. Serve it with your favorite sides for a complete meal that’s sure to impress!
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Vegetable oil for frying
- ½ cup honey
- 2–3 tablespoons hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Instructions
- Rinse shrimp under cold water and pat dry.
- Season shrimp with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Set up three bowls: one with flour, another with buttermilk, and the last with panko breadcrumbs.
- Bread each shrimp by dipping in flour, then buttermilk, followed by panko.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan until shimmering.
- Fry shrimp in batches for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown.
- For the glaze, combine honey, hot sauce, butter, red pepper flakes (if using), and vinegar in a saucepan over low heat until melted.
- Drizzle the hot honey glaze over fried shrimp before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer/Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 fried shrimp (120g)
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 180mg
