As the sun begins to set and the scent of frying seafood fills the air, I find myself whisked away to a bustling kitchen filled with laughter and chatter. Today, we’re diving into the irresistible world of Crispy Hot Honey Fried Shrimp—a dish that marries the delightful crunch of perfectly fried shrimp with a sweet and spicy homemade hot honey glaze. This recipe is not only a crowd-pleaser but also remarkably quick to whip up, making it an ideal choice for unexpected guests or a cozy weeknight dinner. With each bite, you’ll savor the juicy, tender shrimp paired with the fiery tang of the sauce, creating a flavor explosion that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with this deliciously addictive dish? Let’s get started!
Why Is This Shrimp So Irresistible?
Crispy Perfection: Each shrimp is coated to golden brown crispiness, creating a satisfying crunch that pairs perfectly with the tender, juicy inside.
Sweet and Spicy Harmony: The homemade hot honey sauce transforms the dish, marrying the bold flavors of sweetness and heat in each delicious bite.
Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight meal or an impromptu gathering.
Versatile Delight: Enjoy it as a stand-alone appetizer or serve it as a main course alongside your favorite sides, like coleslaw or rice.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: Guaranteed to impress family and friends, these crispy hot honey fried shrimp are sure to vanish quickly at any gathering.
If you’re also a fan of seafood, you might love trying out Garlic Shrimp Pasta or need a spicy kick with Spicy Garlic Shrimp. Enjoy the culinary adventure!
Hot Honey Fried Shrimp Ingredients
• Get ready for a flavor explosion with this Hot Honey Fried Shrimp recipe that promises sweetness and spice!
For the Shrimp
- Large Shrimp – A pound of thawed, peeled, and deveined shrimp adds that juicy seafood goodness. Tail-on shrimp are perfect for easy dipping!
- Buttermilk – One cup (245 g) tenderizes the shrimp while bringing in a tangy flavor. Homemade buttermilk can be made with milk and vinegar if needed.
For the Coating
- All-Purpose Flour – One cup (125 g) forms the crispy coating when fried. You can swap it for self-rising flour without a hitch!
- Paprika – One teaspoon adds a delicious smoky flavor and a hint of color.
- Garlic Powder – One teaspoon brings in savory notes that enhance the overall flavor profile.
- Onion Powder – ½ teaspoon deepens the taste with an extra layer of flavor.
- Kosher Salt – ½ teaspoon for the essential seasoning.
- Black Pepper – ¼ teaspoon offers a mild heat to balance the dish.
- Cayenne Pepper – ¼ teaspoon kicks it up a notch; feel free to adjust based on your spice preference!
For Frying
- Vegetable Oil – Needed for frying, it must reach 350°F for an ideal crispy texture!
For Drizzling
- Hot Honey – ½ cup (170 g) drizzled over the shrimp elevates the dish with that delicious sweet and spicy flavor combination. Use homemade or store-bought, and adjust spice levels with red pepper flakes if desired.
For Garnish
- Chopped Parsley – Adds a refreshing touch to your fried shrimp before serving!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hot Honey Fried Shrimp
Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp
Begin by placing the thawed large shrimp in a mixing bowl and pouring in one cup of buttermilk. Ensure the shrimp are completely coated and let them marinate for 15 minutes at room temperature. This will tenderize the shrimp and infuse a lovely tangy flavor, setting the foundation for your delicious Hot Honey Fried Shrimp.
Step 2: Prepare the Coating
While the shrimp marinates, grab a separate mixing bowl and whisk together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. This flavorful flour mixture will create a crispy coating for your shrimp. The aromas of the spices will begin to fill your kitchen, signaling that tasty fried shrimp are on the way!
Step 3: Dredge the Shrimp
After the marinade time has passed, remove each shrimp from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off before dredging them in the seasoned flour mixture. Make sure each shrimp is well-coated for maximum crunch. Set the coated shrimp aside on a plate, ready to hit the hot oil for the ultimate Hot Honey Fried Shrimp experience.
Step 4: Heat the Oil
In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, pour in enough vegetable oil to create a depth of about 2 inches and heat it over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F. Use a deep-fry thermometer to ensure the oil is at the right temperature, which is crucial for that perfect crispy texture. Be mindful of splatters as the oil heats!
Step 5: Fry the Shrimp
Carefully add the coated shrimp to the hot oil in batches, avoiding overcrowding the pot. Fry the shrimp for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown, flipping them halfway through for an even crispiness. It’s essential to maintain the oil temperature; if it drops too low, you’ll end up with soggy shrimp that won’t have the delightful crunch expected from Hot Honey Fried Shrimp.
Step 6: Drizzle and Serve
Once the shrimp are golden brown and cooked through, remove them from the oil using a slotted spoon and transfer them to a lined baking sheet to drain excess oil. Immediately drizzle the hot honey over the crispy shrimp while they’re hot, allowing the sweet and spicy flavors to meld beautifully. Finish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley for a fresh touch and serve them hot as an enticing appetizer or main dish.
Make Ahead Options
These Crispy Hot Honey Fried Shrimp are a fantastic candidate for meal prep, making your busy weeknights a breeze! You can marinate the shrimp in buttermilk and keep them refrigerated for up to 24 hours. Additionally, the seasoned flour mixture can be prepared the day before and stored in an airtight container for freshness. When you’re ready to serve, simply dredge the marinated shrimp in the flour, heat your oil to 350°F, and fry them as instructed. By prepping in advance, you ensure that dinner is not only quick but just as delicious, maintaining that incredible crispy texture and flavorful hot honey glaze your family loves!
Storage Tips for Hot Honey Fried Shrimp
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Room Temperature: Avoid leaving cooked shrimp at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent foodborne illness.
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Fridge: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2-3 days. Ensure they are well-sealed to maintain moisture and flavor.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the hot honey fried shrimp in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight before baking or air frying.
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Reheating: To restore the crispy texture, reheat the refrigerated shrimp in an oven or air fryer at 350°F for about 10 minutes, drizzling with a bit more hot honey if desired.
Tips for the Best Hot Honey Fried Shrimp
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Oil Temperature: Always check that the vegetable oil reaches 350°F before frying. This ensures a crispy texture and prevents soggy shrimp.
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Batch Frying: Fry the shrimp in small batches. Overcrowding the pot can lower the oil temperature, resulting in less crispiness.
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Marination Time: Allow the shrimp to marinate for a full 15 minutes in buttermilk. This step enhances tenderness and adds flavor.
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Coating Consistency: Make sure the shrimp are evenly coated with the flour mixture. An even layer contributes to the perfect crunch when fried.
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Immediate Serving: Serve the Hot Honey Fried Shrimp right after frying. The inaugural crunch and warmth, paired with the hot honey drizzle, create an unforgettable flavor experience.
Hot Honey Fried Shrimp Variations
Feel free to tweak this recipe and make it your own with these fun variations that’ll ignite your kitchen creativity!
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Chicken Swap: Substitute large shrimp with chicken strips for a hearty twist that’ll satisfy meat lovers.
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Gluten-Free: Use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour for a delightful gluten-free option that does not compromise on texture or flavor.
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Zesty Lemon: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the hot honey for a refreshing citrus kick, brightening up the overall flavor.
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Smoky BBQ: Mix in some smoked paprika with the flour to create a smoky flavor profile that will take your fried shrimp to new heights.
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Pineapple Glaze: Pair this dish with a pineapple-infused hot honey for an exotic twist that blends tropical sweetness with heat.
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Spicy Twist: For an extra kick, mix in more cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce into the hot honey mix.
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Shrimp Skewers: Alternate the shrimp with fresh veggies like bell peppers and onions on skewers for a fun and colorful presentation that’s perfect for grilling.
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Asian Infusion: Add soy sauce or sesame oil to the hot honey for an Asian-inspired flavor that pairs beautifully with the shrimp’s crunchiness.
If you enjoy bold flavors, try pairing these shrimp with a side of Honey Garlic Pork or go for a lighter option with Chipotle Lime Shrimp. Happy cooking!
What to Serve with Crispy Hot Honey Fried Shrimp
Transform your meal into a feast with delightful pairings that enhance every bite of hot honey fried shrimp.
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Creamy Coleslaw: This crunchy salad adds a refreshing contrast to the spicy shrimp, balancing the heat with creamy coolness.
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Garlic Butter Rice: Fluffy rice infused with garlic butter complements the shrimp beautifully, soaking up the sweet and spicy drizzles of hot honey.
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Coconut Rice: Sweet and fragrant coconut rice pairs exquisitely with the crispy, savory shrimp, creating a tropical vibe that’s simply irresistible.
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Spicy Dipping Sauce: Create a small bowl of spicy aioli or sriracha mayo for dipping, adding an extra layer of kick on the side.
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Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Colorful skewers of zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms bring freshness and a smoky flavor that perfectly contrasts the crispy shrimp.
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Garden Salad: A light salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette cleanses the palate, enhancing the experience of fried shrimp’s richness.
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Savory Biscuits: Fluffy, buttery biscuits are perfect for sopping up hot honey drizzles and create a comforting side that complements the dish.
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Chilled White Wine: A crisp, chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully, offering a refreshing sip that balances the sweetness and spice.
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Lemon Sorbet: End your meal on a light note with a scoop of lemon sorbet, which cleanses the palate and highlights the flavors of shrimp.
Hot Honey Fried Shrimp Recipe FAQs
What type of shrimp should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! For this recipe, I recommend using large, thawed, peeled, and deveined shrimp. Tail-on shrimp are preferred since they make for easier dipping and a delightful presentation as an appetizer.
How should I store leftover Hot Honey Fried Shrimp?
After enjoying your delicious shrimp, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Make sure to seal it well to maintain moisture and flavor. I often find that reheating in the oven or air fryer works best to restore that crispy texture!
Can I freeze Hot Honey Fried Shrimp?
Yes! If you want to save some for later, you can freeze the hot honey fried shrimp in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight. To reheat, bake or air fry at 350°F for about 10 minutes, and don’t hesitate to add a bit more hot honey to enhance the flavor.
What can I do if my shrimp come out soggy?
Very much! If your shrimp end up soggy, it might be due to the oil temperature being too low. Always double-check that your oil reaches 350°F before frying. Reheat the shrimp in an air fryer or oven to crisp them back up—simply heat at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until nicely warmed through.
Can I adjust the spiciness of the hot honey?
The more the merrier! To tailor the heat level in your hot honey, you can customize the amount of red pepper flakes you add. If you like it milder, start with less, and feel free to gradually increase until you find your perfect balance.
Is there a substitute for buttermilk?
Absolutely! If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can easily make a substitute. Combine one cup of milk with one tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice, and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly. This homemade version will work wonderfully for marinating the shrimp!
Irresistible Hot Honey Fried Shrimp That'll Spice Up Dinner
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Marinate the shrimp in buttermilk for 15 minutes at room temperature.
- Prepare the coating by whisking together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
- Dredge each shrimp in the seasoned flour mixture after marinating.
- Heat vegetable oil in a pot to 350°F.
- Fry the shrimp in batches for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
- Drizzle hot honey over the shrimp immediately after frying.
