Hot Honey Fried Shrimp

Hot Honey Fried Shrimp is a delightful dish that combines the crunch of deep-fried shrimp with the sweet and spicy allure of homemade hot honey. This recipe is versatile, making it perfect for any occasion, whether as an appetizer at parties or the star of your dinner table. Each bite promises a burst of flavor, ensuring that these shrimp will be a crowd favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare – With just a few simple steps, you can create a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Flavor Explosion – The combination of crispy shrimp and sweet-hot honey creates an irresistible flavor profile.
• Versatile Serving Options – Enjoy as an appetizer, main course, or even in tacos for a fun twist.
• Perfect for Sharing – Great for gatherings, these shrimp are easy to serve and share among friends and family.
• Crowd-Pleasing Appeal – The unique blend of flavors is sure to impress guests at any gathering.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking Hot Honey Fried Shrimp, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will streamline the process and ensure success.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot – Provides ample space for frying the shrimp evenly without overcrowding.
• Candy or deep-fry thermometer – Ensures the oil reaches the correct temperature for perfect frying results.
• Medium bowls – Ideal for marinating shrimp and mixing dry ingredients without mess.
• Slotted spoon – Helps remove fried shrimp from oil while allowing excess oil to drain away.

Ingredients

To make tasty Hot Honey Fried Shrimp, you will need the following 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 and Garnish

• 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

1. To a medium bowl, add shrimp.
2. Pour the buttermilk over the shrimp, ensuring each piece is coated.
3. Marinate at room temperature for at least 15 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

1. In another medium bowl, combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
2. Mix well until all ingredients are combined. Set aside.

Step 3: Dredge the Shrimp

1. Working one at a time, remove shrimp from marinade letting any excess drip off.
2. Dredge each shrimp generously in the seasoned flour mixture until fully coated.
3. Place coated shrimp on a large baking sheet and repeat until all are prepared.

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 350°F.

Step 5: Fry the Shrimp

1. Line another baking sheet with parchment paper; set aside.
2. Tap off excess flour from each shrimp before carefully transferring it into hot oil.
3. Fry in batches for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Remember to let oil return to temperature between batches.

Step 6: Drizzle with Hot Honey

1. Using a slotted spoon, remove fried shrimp from oil and place on lined baking sheet.
2. Drizzle immediately with hot honey while still hot.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

1. Garnish with chopped parsley.
2. Serve hot as an appetizer or main course with extra hot honey on the side!

How to Serve Hot Honey Fried Shrimp

Hot Honey Fried Shrimp is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to serve it as an appetizer or a main course, here are some delightful ideas for presentation.

As an Appetizer

• Serve with extra hot honey for dipping – The sweet and spicy sauce complements the crispy shrimp perfectly.
• Pair with fresh veggies – Carrot sticks, celery, and cucumber slices add a refreshing crunch on the side.

As a Main Course

• Accompany with rice – Sticky rice or jasmine rice absorbs the flavors well and balances the dish.
• Serve alongside a salad – A light green salad with citrus dressing adds freshness to your meal.

In Tacos

• Make shrimp tacos – Fill soft tortillas with shrimp, avocado, and slaw for a fun twist.
• Top with cilantro lime crema – This creamy addition enhances the flavor profile beautifully.

With Dipping Sauces

• Offer different dips – Consider options like ranch, garlic aioli, or spicy mayo for variety.
• Create a hot honey drizzle – Drizzling more hot honey over the plated shrimp elevates the experience.

How to Perfect Hot Honey Fried Shrimp

To ensure your Hot Honey Fried Shrimp turns out perfectly crispy and flavorful every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use fresh shrimp – Fresh shrimp yields better flavor and texture compared to frozen ones.
• Marinate properly – Allowing the shrimp to soak in buttermilk enhances tenderness and adds flavor.
• Maintain oil temperature – Keep the oil at 350°F while frying. This ensures crispy results without greasy shrimp.
• Don’t overcrowd the pot – Fry in batches to prevent temperature drops that can lead to soggy shrimp.
• Drain excess oil – Place fried shrimp on paper towels briefly after frying to absorb any remaining oil.
• Adjust seasoning – Feel free to tweak spices in the flour mixture according to your taste preferences.

Best Side Dishes for Hot Honey Fried Shrimp

Pairing side dishes with Hot Honey Fried Shrimp can enhance your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Coconut Rice – Creamy coconut-flavored rice that offers a hint of sweetness, complementing the spicy shrimp perfectly.
2. Coleslaw – A crunchy and tangy slaw made with cabbage and carrots adds texture and freshness.
3. Garlic Bread – Crispy garlic bread makes for a great accompaniment, perfect for soaking up any extra hot honey.
4. Grilled Vegetables – Seasonal vegetables lightly grilled bring smokiness that balances the sweetness of the dish.
5. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn brushed with butter adds a delightful contrast to the hot honey flavors.
6. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad packed with herbs and lemon dressing provides a healthy option full of flavor.
7. Sweet Potato Fries – Crispy fries bring sweetness that pairs wonderfully with spicy shrimp, making them irresistible.
8. Mixed Green Salad – A simple salad dressed in vinaigrette offers a refreshing counterpoint to rich fried shrimp.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Hot Honey Fried Shrimp, there are some common pitfalls that can affect the outcome. Here’s how to avoid them.

• Skipping the Marinade: Not marinating the shrimp in buttermilk can lead to a less flavorful dish. Take the time to let the shrimp soak; it enhances both taste and texture.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Frying too many shrimp at once can lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy, greasy shrimp. Fry in smaller batches to achieve that perfect crispy exterior.
• Not Heating Oil Properly: If the oil isn’t hot enough (350°F), your shrimp will absorb more oil and lose crispiness. Always use a thermometer to ensure proper frying temperature.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Failing to season your flour mixture can leave your shrimp bland. Don’t skip on spices; they’re key for delicious flavor.
• Ignoring Garnish: A sprinkle of parsley adds a fresh finish and visual appeal. Always take a moment to garnish your dish before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Hot Honey Fried Shrimp in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking, to maintain crispiness.

Freezing Hot Honey Fried Shrimp

• Freeze cooked shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be stored for up to 2 months in the freezer.

Reheating Hot Honey Fried Shrimp

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Place shrimp on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes until crispy.
• Microwave: Use with caution as it may make shrimp soggy. Heat for about 30 seconds at a time until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat a pan over medium heat with a little oil. Add shrimp and sauté for 2-3 minutes until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use frozen shrimp for Hot Honey Fried Shrimp?

Yes, just ensure they are fully thawed, peeled, and deveined before marinating and frying.

What can I substitute for buttermilk in this recipe?

You can use milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice as an alternative for buttermilk.

How do I make homemade hot honey?

Simply combine honey with red pepper flakes or chili powder in a small saucepan over low heat until it reaches your desired spiciness.

Can I make Hot Honey Fried Shrimp ahead of time?

While best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the shrimp by marinating and coating them ahead of time, then fry them just before serving.

What side dishes pair well with Hot Honey Fried Shrimp?

Consider serving with coleslaw, rice, or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.

Final Thoughts

Hot Honey Fried Shrimp is not only delicious but also versatile enough for various occasions. Whether as an appetizer or main course, its sweet and spicy profile is sure to impress. Feel free to customize it by adjusting spice levels or trying different dipping sauces!