Hot Honey Fried Shrimp

If you’re looking for a dish that brings together the perfect balance of sweet and spicy, then Hot Honey Fried Shrimp is just what you need! This recipe has quickly become a favorite in my kitchen because it’s not only delicious but also incredibly easy to whip up. Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or having friends over for game night, these crispy shrimp will steal the show and leave everyone wanting more.

The best part? You can serve them as an appetizer with extra hot honey for dipping or make them the star of your main course alongside some tasty side dishes. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a go-to in your meal rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have mouthwatering shrimp ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly: The delightful mix of sweet and spicy flavors makes this dish appealing to both kids and adults.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, Hot Honey Fried Shrimp fits right in.
• Customizable: You can easily adapt the spice level to suit your taste.
• Irresistibly Flavorful: Each bite delivers a satisfying crunch followed by that sweet heat from the hot honey!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple and wholesome, making it easier than ever to create something special from scratch. Here’s what you’ll need for Hot Honey Fried Shrimp:

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

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is! You can easily switch things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Swap the protein: Instead of shrimp, try using chicken tenders or even cauliflower for a plant-based option.
• Adjust the heat: If you prefer less spice, reduce the cayenne pepper or use mild honey instead of hot honey.
• Add extra flavor: Toss in some lemon zest or fresh herbs into the buttermilk marinade for an added punch.
• Try different coatings: Experiment with panko breadcrumbs instead of flour for an even crunchier texture!

How to Make Hot Honey Fried Shrimp

Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp

To start off, grab a medium bowl and add your large shrimp. Pour the buttermilk over them to coat each one generously. This step is crucial because marinating in buttermilk helps tenderize the shrimp and adds flavor. Let them sit at room temperature for at least 15 minutes while you prep everything else.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

In another medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Mixing these spices into the flour creates a delicious coating that will give our fried shrimp that irresistible crunch and flavor. Set this mixture aside while we finish prepping.

Step 3: Dredge the Shrimp

Now it’s time to give those shrimp their crispy coat! Take each piece out of the buttermilk marinade one at a time, allowing any excess liquid to drip off. Dredge each shrimp generously in your seasoned flour mixture until fully coated. This helps lock in moisture while frying, resulting in juicy shrimp with an amazing crust.

Step 4: Heat Up the Oil

In a large pot over medium heat, add about 2 inches of vegetable oil. Use a candy or deep-fry thermometer to bring it up to 350°F. This temperature is key because frying at just the right heat ensures that you’ll get perfectly golden brown shrimp without them becoming greasy.

Step 5: Line Your Baking Sheet

While waiting for your oil to heat up, line another baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside. Once you’re ready to fry, this will provide an easy way to let excess oil drain off your crispy shrimp.

Step 6: Fry Those Shrimp!

When your oil reaches temperature, carefully lower in your coated shrimp one by one—make sure not to overcrowd them! Fry in batches for about 2-3 minutes until they turn golden brown and crispy, flipping occasionally for even cooking. Keep an eye on that thermometer; once you’re done with each batch, let it come back up to temperature before frying more.

Step 7: Drizzle with Hot Honey

Using a slotted spoon, gently remove each fried shrimp from the oil and place them onto your lined baking sheet. Drizzle those hot honey goodness all over—this gives every bite that sweet-spicy kick we’re after!

Step 8: Garnish and Serve!

Lastly, sprinkle some chopped parsley over your beautiful platter of Hot Honey Fried Shrimp before serving hot. Enjoy every crunchy bite; I promise they won’t last long!

Pro Tips for Making Hot Honey Fried Shrimp

Creating the perfect Hot Honey Fried Shrimp is all about attention to detail and a few simple tricks. Here are some pro tips to ensure your shrimp turn out crispy and flavorful every time!

• Use fresh shrimp: Fresh or properly thawed shrimp will provide the best texture and flavor. Frozen shrimp that are not fully thawed can lead to uneven cooking, while fresh shrimp just bring that delightful taste.

• Don’t skip the buttermilk marinade: Marinating in buttermilk not only adds moisture but also tenderizes the shrimp, making them juicy and delicious. It’s a crucial step that enhances the final dish.

• Monitor oil temperature carefully: Keeping the oil at a consistent 350°F is vital for achieving that golden-brown crispiness. If the oil is too cool, the shrimp will absorb more oil, leading to a greasy outcome.

• Fry in batches: Overcrowding the pot can drop the oil temperature dramatically. Frying in smaller batches allows for even cooking and better texture.

• Drizzle with hot honey before serving: Adding hot honey right after frying allows it to cling better to the shrimp, ensuring each bite is packed with that sweet and spicy flavor!

How to Serve Hot Honey Fried Shrimp

Hot Honey Fried Shrimp makes for an impressive dish whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a cozy night in. Here are some fun ways to present this delightful meal!

Garnishes

• Chopped green onions: They add a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that complements the shrimp beautifully.
• Lemon wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens up the dish, enhancing its flavors with a zesty kick.
• Sesame seeds: Sprinkling toasted sesame seeds on top adds an extra crunch and nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the hot honey.

Side Dishes

• Coleslaw: A refreshing crunch from coleslaw balances out the warmth of the fried shrimp. The creamy dressing adds richness while keeping things light.

• Steamed rice: Serving your shrimp over fluffy steamed rice allows you to soak up any extra hot honey, making each bite even more enjoyable.

• Grilled vegetables: Colorful grilled veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus not only add nutrition but also bright flavors that complement the sweetness of the sauce.

• Sweet potato fries: These offer a tasty contrast to the spicy shrimp while providing a satisfying crunch that everyone loves.

With these serving suggestions and tips, you’re set to impress your family and friends with your Hot Honey Fried Shrimp! Enjoy every crispy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Hot Honey Fried Shrimp recipe is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy a delicious dish any day of the week. You can make it ahead of time, store leftovers, and even freeze them for later!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the fried shrimp to cool completely before storing.
• Place the shrimp in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Ensure the fried shrimp are fully cooled.
• Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container; they can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Spread the frozen or refrigerated shrimp on a baking sheet in a single layer.
• Bake for about 10-12 minutes or until heated through and crispy.

FAQs

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

Can I use frozen shrimp for Hot Honey Fried Shrimp?

Yes! Just ensure they are thoroughly thawed, peeled, and deveined before marinating in buttermilk.

How can I adjust the heat level in Hot Honey Fried Shrimp?

To lower the spice level, reduce the cayenne pepper. For more heat, consider adding extra hot honey or a dash of hot sauce to the mix!

What should I serve with Hot Honey Fried Shrimp?

These shrimp pair wonderfully with coleslaw, rice, or even a fresh salad. Feel free to get creative with your sides!

Is there an alternative to buttermilk for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute buttermilk with a mixture of milk and vinegar (1 cup milk + 1 tablespoon vinegar, let sit for 5 minutes) as an effective alternative.

Final Thoughts

I’m so excited for you to try this Hot Honey Fried Shrimp recipe! It’s not just a dish; it’s an experience filled with sweet and spicy flavors that will surely impress your family and friends. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer or as part of your main meal, it’s bound to be a hit. Enjoy making this recipe at home and savor every delicious bite! Happy cooking!