Hot Honey Fried Shrimp

Hot Honey Fried Shrimp is a delightful dish that combines crispy, golden shrimp with a sweet and spicy homemade hot honey. This recipe is perfect for parties, game nights, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a standout choice for both appetizers and main courses. With easy-to-follow steps, you’ll have a delicious dish ready in no time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The balance of sweet hot honey and crispy shrimp creates an irresistible taste experience.
• Quick Preparation: With a total time of just 28 minutes, you can serve this dish in no time.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as an appetizer or pair it with sides for a satisfying meal.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, everyone will love the unique twist on classic fried shrimp.
• Homemade Hot Honey: Make your own hot honey to control the heat and sweetness levels.

Tools and Preparation

To make Hot Honey Fried Shrimp, having the right tools will streamline your cooking process. Gather these essentials before you start.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Provides enough space for frying shrimp without overcrowding, leading to perfectly cooked results.
• Candy or deep-fry thermometer: Ensures oil reaches the correct temperature for crispy frying while preventing undercooked shrimp.
• Slotted spoon: Allows you to easily remove shrimp from hot oil without excess oil being retained.

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Ingredients

Hot Honey Fried Shrimp is made with fresh ingredients that contribute to its fantastic flavor profile. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Shrimp

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

For the Dredging Mixture

• 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 and Serving

• Vegetable oil, (for frying)
• 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

To start, add the shrimp to a medium bowl. Pour the buttermilk over them, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Let them marinate at room temperature for at least 15 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Dredging Mixture

In another medium bowl, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Mix well and set aside.

Step 3: Dredge the Shrimp

Remove each shrimp from the marinade one at a time. Allow any excess liquid to drip off before coating them generously in the seasoned flour mixture. Place coated shrimp on a large baking sheet and repeat until all are coated.

Step 4: Heat the Oil

In a large pot over medium heat, add about 2 inches of vegetable oil. Use a candy or deep-fry thermometer to heat the oil until it reaches 350°F.

Step 5: Prepare for Frying

Line another baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside.

Step 6: Fry the Shrimp

Once the oil is ready, carefully transfer coated shrimp into the hot oil using a slotted spoon. Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per batch until they are golden brown and crispy. Note: You may need to reheat the oil between batches.

Step 7: Drizzle with Hot Honey

Using a slotted spoon again, remove fried shrimp from the oil and place them on the lined baking sheet. Drizzle generously with hot honey while they are still warm.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Finally, sprinkle chopped parsley over the shrimp for garnish. Serve immediately while hot!

How to Serve Hot Honey Fried Shrimp

Hot Honey Fried Shrimp is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether as an appetizer or the main event, here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

As an Appetizer

• Serve with extra hot honey for dipping to amplify the sweet and spicy flavors.
• Pair with a refreshing cucumber salad to balance the heat.

As a Main Course

• Accompany with fluffy rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious hot honey.
• Add roasted vegetables for a colorful and nutritious side that complements the shrimp.

In Tacos

• Place fried shrimp in warm tortillas and top with shredded cabbage and drizzle of hot honey for a fun twist.
• Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for added brightness.

With Dipping Sauces

• Offer a creamy ranch or blue cheese dressing alongside for those who prefer a milder flavor.
• Create a zesty mango salsa to add freshness and sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the shrimp.

How to Perfect Hot Honey Fried Shrimp

Creating delicious Hot Honey Fried Shrimp requires attention to detail. Here are some tips for achieving perfect results every time.

• Marinate Longer: For deeper flavor, consider marinating the shrimp in buttermilk for up to 30 minutes instead of just 15.
• Fry in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the pot while frying; this ensures even cooking and crispy texture.
• Check Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to maintain oil at 350°F for optimal frying; this prevents sogginess.
• Use Fresh Spices: Ensure your spices are fresh for maximum flavor impact; old spices lose potency over time.
• Drain Properly: After frying, let the shrimp drain on paper towels briefly before drizzling with hot honey to prevent them from getting soggy.

Best Side Dishes for Hot Honey Fried Shrimp

To create a well-rounded meal, consider these fantastic side dishes that pair beautifully with Hot Honey Fried Shrimp.

1. Coleslaw – A crunchy, tangy slaw adds freshness and balances the richness of the fried shrimp.
2. Garlic Bread – Crispy garlic bread makes a great accompaniment, perfect for soaking up any extra hot honey.
3. Corn on the Cob – Grilled or boiled corn brings sweetness that complements the spicy shrimp well.
4. Sweet Potato Fries – Crispy sweet potato fries offer a delightful contrast in flavor and texture.
5. Mixed Green Salad – A simple salad with vinaigrette provides lightness against the hearty shrimp.
6. Rice Pilaf – Lightly seasoned rice pilaf absorbs sauces beautifully, making each bite satisfying.
7. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – The caramelized edges of roasted sprouts give depth and earthiness alongside spicy shrimp.
8. Potato Wedges – Crispy potato wedges can serve as another vessel for enjoying hot honey drizzles.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Hot Honey Fried Shrimp can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the Marinade – Not marinating the shrimp in buttermilk reduces flavor and tenderness. Always allow at least 15 minutes for the shrimp to soak.
• Overcrowding the Frying Pan – Placing too many shrimp in the oil at once can lower the temperature and result in soggy shrimp. Fry in small batches for the best texture.
• Inadequate Oil Temperature – If the oil isn’t hot enough, the shrimp will absorb too much oil and become greasy. Use a thermometer to ensure it reaches 350°F before frying.
• Not Draining Excess Flour – Failing to shake off excess flour leads to clumpy fried shrimp that may not cook evenly. Ensure you gently tap off any extra coating before frying.
• Ignoring Garnish – Skipping parsley or other garnishes makes your dish less appealing visually. A sprinkle of fresh herbs enhances presentation and flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Hot Honey Fried Shrimp in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Hot Honey Fried Shrimp

• Place cooled fried shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet, then freeze until solid.
• Transfer to freezer bags or an airtight container for up to 2 months.

Reheating Hot Honey Fried Shrimp

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F. Spread shrimp on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-12 minutes until crispy.
• Microwave – Heat on a microwave-safe plate for about 1-2 minutes. This method may make them less crispy.
• Stovetop – Place shrimp in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of oil for about 3-5 minutes, turning frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Hot Honey?

Hot honey is honey infused with chili peppers, adding sweetness and spice, perfect for drizzling over fried shrimp.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before marinating and coating.

How can I customize Hot Honey Fried Shrimp?

Feel free to adjust the spices in the flour mixture or try different dipping sauces like ranch or garlic aioli.

What side dishes pair well with Hot Honey Fried Shrimp?

Consider serving with coleslaw, fries, or a light salad for a balanced meal.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute regular flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend.

Final Thoughts

Hot Honey Fried Shrimp offers an exciting blend of sweet and spicy flavors that can elevate any meal. Whether served as an appetizer or main course, this dish is sure to impress. Feel free to customize it with your favorite spices or dipping sauces!