Hot Honey Fried Shrimp

Hot Honey Fried Shrimp is a delightful dish that combines the crunchiness of fried shrimp with a sweet and spicy twist. This recipe is perfect for various occasions, whether you’re hosting a gathering or just looking to treat yourself! The crispy texture paired with the homemade hot honey elevates this dish, making it an irresistible choice for appetizers or main courses.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy Perfection: Each shrimp is deep-fried to golden brown perfection, providing a satisfying crunch with every bite.
• Sweet and Spicy Flavor: The homemade hot honey adds a unique sweet heat that enhances the shrimp’s natural flavors.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as an appetizer or as the star of your main course; it pairs well with various sides.
• Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time and simple steps, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether at a party or family dinner, Hot Honey Fried Shrimp will surely impress your guests!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools for a smooth experience. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking!

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Deep-fryer or large pot
• Candy or deep-fry thermometer
• Slotted spoon
• Medium bowls
• Baking sheets

Importance of Each Tool

• Deep-fryer or large pot: Essential for achieving the right temperature needed to fry the shrimp evenly.
• Candy or deep-fry thermometer: Ensures that the oil reaches 350°F for perfectly crispy shrimp without overcooking.
• Slotted spoon: Ideal for safely removing fried shrimp from hot oil while allowing excess oil to drain off.

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

To start, add the thawed shrimp to a medium bowl. Pour buttermilk over the shrimp, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Allow it to marinate at room temperature for at least 15 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

In another medium bowl, combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed. Set aside.

Step 3: Dredge the Shrimp

One by one, remove each shrimp from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Coat generously in the seasoned flour mixture. Ensure each shrimp is fully covered before placing them on a large baking sheet. Repeat this step until all shrimp are coated.

Step 4: Heat the Oil

In a large pot over medium heat, pour about 2 inches of vegetable oil. Use a candy or deep-fry thermometer to bring the oil temperature up to 350°F.

Step 5: Line Your Baking Sheet

Prepare another baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper. Set this aside for later use.

Step 6: Fry the Shrimp

Once your oil is ready, carefully transfer coated shrimp into the hot oil using a slotted spoon. Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook each batch for about 2-3 minutes, turning occasionally until they are golden brown and crispy. Remember to check that your oil returns to 350°F between batches.

Step 7: Drizzle with Hot Honey

Using a slotted spoon again, remove fried shrimp from the oil and place them on your lined baking sheet. Generously drizzle them with hot honey while they’re still hot.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Finish by garnishing your Hot Honey Fried Shrimp with chopped parsley. Serve immediately while hot for an unforgettable experience!

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 choose to enjoy it as an appetizer or a main course, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

As an Appetizer

• Serve with extra hot honey for dipping to enhance the sweet and spicy flavor.
• Pair with fresh vegetables like cucumber slices or celery sticks for a refreshing crunch.
• Accompany with a side of crispy tortilla chips for added texture and enjoyment.

As a Main Course

• Serve over a bed of fluffy rice to soak up the delicious hot honey.
• Pair with coleslaw for a creamy contrast and added crunch.
• Offer alongside grilled vegetables for a healthy and colorful plate.

On Tacos

• Use as a filling in soft corn tortillas topped with avocado slices and cilantro for a unique twist.
• Add shredded cabbage and a squeeze of lime juice for extra flavor and freshness.

How to Perfect Hot Honey Fried Shrimp

Perfecting Hot Honey Fried Shrimp requires attention to detail and technique. Here are some tips to ensure your shrimp turn out perfectly every time.

• Use fresh shrimp: Fresh shrimp enhance the flavor and texture, making each bite better.
• Marinate adequately: Letting the shrimp sit in buttermilk allows them to become tender and flavorful.
• Monitor oil temperature: Keeping oil at 350°F is crucial for achieving that crispy golden exterior without greasy shrimp.
• Avoid overcrowding: Frying in small batches ensures even cooking and prevents steaming instead of frying.
• Drain properly: Allowing the fried shrimp to rest on parchment paper helps remove excess oil, making them lighter.

Best Side Dishes for Hot Honey Fried Shrimp

Complementing your Hot Honey Fried Shrimp with the right sides can enhance the overall meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Coleslaw: A creamy slaw adds crunch and balances the sweetness of the shrimp.
2. Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up any leftover hot honey sauce; its buttery flavor pairs well.
3. Coconut Rice: This subtly sweet rice complements the spicy notes of the shrimp beautifully.
4. Grilled Corn on the Cob: The smoky, charred flavor contrasts nicely with the hot honey glaze.
5. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness ties in well with the spicy shrimp while providing a hearty side.
6. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette adds freshness and cuts through the richness of fried shrimp.
7. Steamed Broccoli: This nutritious option offers color and texture while balancing out richer flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Hot Honey Fried Shrimp, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some common pitfalls to be aware of:

• Skipping the marinade: Marinating the shrimp in buttermilk is essential for flavor and tenderness. Don’t rush this step; allow at least 15 minutes for the best results.

• Overcrowding the frying pan: Frying too many shrimp at once can lower the oil temperature, leading to soggy shrimp. Fry in batches to maintain a crispy texture.

• Neglecting oil temperature: If the oil isn’t hot enough, the shrimp will absorb excess oil and become greasy. Use a thermometer to ensure it reaches 350°F before frying.

• Not shaking off excess flour: Leaving too much flour on the shrimp may result in a heavy coating that doesn’t crisp up well. Make sure to gently shake off any excess before frying.

• Skipping garnishes: Garnishing with parsley not only enhances presentation but also adds freshness to each bite. Don’t skip this simple touch!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Hot Honey Fried Shrimp in an airtight container.
• Consume within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Hot Honey Fried Shrimp

• Place cooled shrimp in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Hot Honey Fried Shrimp

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to steam them slightly, about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions regarding Hot Honey Fried Shrimp.

What is Hot Honey Fried Shrimp?

Hot Honey Fried Shrimp is a delicious dish featuring crispy fried shrimp tossed in a sweet and spicy hot honey sauce. It’s perfect as an appetizer or main course.

How can I customize Hot Honey Fried Shrimp?

You can customize this recipe by adding spices like cayenne pepper or using different herbs for garnish. Experiment with various dipping sauces as well!

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before marinating and frying.

How do I make homemade hot honey?

To make homemade hot honey, simply mix honey with your choice of hot sauce until you reach your desired level of spiciness.

Final Thoughts

Hot Honey Fried Shrimp is a versatile dish that offers both sweetness and heat in every bite. Whether served as an appetizer or main course, it’s sure to please everyone at your table. Feel free to customize it with your favorite spices or serve it alongside refreshing sides!