As I stood in my kitchen, the tantalizing aroma of spices filled the air, immediately transporting me to a cozy beachside diner. This is where my love for Hot Honey Fried Shrimp truly blossomed. The moment I took my first bite of these crispy shrimp, coated in a spicy shell and drizzled with a sweet honey glaze, I knew I had found a golden treasure. Not only is this dish a crowd-pleaser, but it also comes together in no time, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive appetizer for entertaining. With just the right amount of heat to keep things exciting and sweetness to balance it out, these hot honey fried shrimp are a delightful twist on traditional seafood fare. Are you ready to dive into this flavor adventure? Let’s get cooking!
Why is Hot Honey Fried Shrimp a Must-Try?
Irresistible Flavor: Each bite delivers a perfect mix of sweet and spicy that’ll have you coming back for more.
Quick Preparation: Whip up this dish in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfectly crispy and visually striking, these shrimp are sure to impress your family and friends, whether it’s a casual dinner or a festive celebration.
Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them as an appetizer, toss them in tacos, or even serve them over zesty salads for a fresh twist.
Healthier Indulgence: With moderate calories per serving, this dish lets you indulge without the guilt. Ready to dive into this delicious recipe? Pair it with a refreshing green salad or some crunchy coleslaw for a complete meal!
Hot Honey Fried Shrimp Ingredients
For the Shrimp
• Large shrimp – Use peeled and deveined for the best taste and tenderness.
• Vegetable oil – Opt for a neutral oil that can withstand high frying temperatures.
For the Coating
• All-purpose flour – This creates a light, crispy shell; gluten-free options can be used.
• Garlic powder – Adds depth and savory flavor without any chopping involved.
• Onion powder – Brings aromatic richness to the fried shrimp.
• Smoked paprika – Infuses the coating with a mild smokiness.
• Cayenne pepper – Delivers a kick of heat to amplify the shrimp’s flavor.
• Salt – Essential for enhancing all the flavors in the dish.
• Black pepper – Adds an extra layer of warmth and bite.
• Large eggs – Acts as a binder, helping the flour adhere and forming a crispy crust.
• Milk – Makes the egg mixture smoother and lighter for coating.
For the Hot Honey Sauce
• Honey – The star of the show, providing that signature sweetness.
• Hot sauce – Adjust according to your heat preference; any variety works!
• Unsalted butter – Adds a rich, velvety texture to the sauce.
• Apple cider vinegar – Introduces a tangy kick, balancing the sweetness of the honey.
• Red pepper flakes – Sprinkle in for an extra burst of heat to the sauce.
These Hot Honey Fried Shrimp ingredients spotlight a delightful balance of textures and flavors that will keep you craving them again and again!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hot Honey Fried Shrimp
Step 1: Prepare Hot Honey Sauce
In a small saucepan, combine ½ cup of honey, ¼ cup of your favorite hot sauce, 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Heat over medium-low, stirring frequently until the butter melts and the mixture becomes smooth, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside so the flavors can meld.
Step 2: Prep Shrimp
Rinse 1 pound of large shrimp under cold water and thoroughly pat them dry with paper towels. Ensuring the shrimp are dry helps the coating adhere better, resulting in a delicious, crispy texture in your Hot Honey Fried Shrimp. Keep them on a plate close to your frying station for easy access.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. This spice mixture creates a flavorful coating that perfectly complements the shrimp’s natural sweetness.
Step 4: Make Egg Wash
In another bowl, beat together 2 large eggs and ¼ cup of milk until the mixture is smooth and slightly frothy. This egg wash serves as the adhesive that allows the flour mixture to cling beautifully to the shrimp, ensuring every bite is flavorful and crispy when producing your Hot Honey Fried Shrimp.
Step 5: Heat Oil
In a deep-sided pan or fryer, pour in about 2 inches of vegetable oil and heat to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature closely, as the oil needs to be hot enough to fry the shrimp quickly without absorbing too much oil. You’ll know it’s ready when a small piece of bread sizzles and turns golden brown in about 30 seconds.
Step 6: Coat Shrimp
Take each shrimp and dredge it in the flour mixture, knocking off any excess. Then dip it into the egg wash before returning it to the flour for a second coating to ensure an extra crunch. This three-step coating process is key to achieving that irresistible crispy outer layer on your Hot Honey Fried Shrimp.
Step 7: Fry Shrimp
Carefully place the coated shrimp in the hot oil, working in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry for about 2 to 3 minutes, or until they turn a beautiful golden brown and float to the top. Use a slotted spoon to retrieve them and let them drain on paper towels, ensuring a crispy finish.
Step 8: Toss in Sauce
Once all the shrimp are fried, transfer them to a large bowl and pour the prepared hot honey sauce over them. Toss gently until each shrimp is thoroughly coated in the sweet and spicy sauce, allowing the flavors of the Hot Honey Fried Shrimp to shine through beautifully.
Step 9: Serve
Plate your Hot Honey Fried Shrimp in an appetizing arrangement and consider serving with extra hot honey sauce on the side for dipping. This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad, crunchy coleslaw, or crispy fries to complete your meal and impress your family and friends.
Storage Tips for Hot Honey Fried Shrimp
Fridge: Store leftover Hot Honey Fried Shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day to preserve freshness and crispiness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the fried shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container. They can be stored for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat, place frozen or refrigerated shrimp on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes or until crispy, rather than microwaving to maintain texture.
Serving Update: If you’ve stored them, toss the shrimp in a little extra hot honey sauce after reheating for an added flavor boost!
Hot Honey Fried Shrimp Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize your Hot Honey Fried Shrimp to match your preferences and dietary needs!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a deliciously crispy option.
- Honey Alternative: Swap honey with maple syrup or agave for a vegan-friendly version without losing flavor.
- Taco Twist: Serve these shrimp in warm taco shells with avocado and slaw for a fun, fresh take on a classic.
- Spice It Up: Experiment with different hot sauces like Sriracha or chili garlic sauce to create your perfect heat level.
- Add Crunch: Mix in some panko breadcrumbs with the flour for added texture and an extra crunch with every bite.
- Citrus Zing: Squeeze some fresh lime juice over the shrimp before serving to brighten up the flavors beautifully.
- Salad Sensation: Toss these shrimp over a bed of mixed greens, topped with a tangy vinaigrette, for a delightful salad option.
- Asian Inspiration: Drizzle with sesame oil and garnish with sesame seeds and green onions for an Asian-inspired twist.
With so many variations, your Hot Honey Fried Shrimp can be transformed time and again! Whether you enjoy them over a fresh salad or in tacos, these little nuggets of joy are a fantastic way to elevate any meal. For even more seafood goodness, try out my Stuffed Shrimp Savory or Bang Bang Shrimp for more flavorful options!
Expert Tips for Hot Honey Fried Shrimp
Dry Shrimp First: Ensure shrimp are thoroughly dried before coating; this step prevents sogginess and helps achieve a crispy finish.
Temperature Control: Use a thermometer to maintain oil temperature at 350°F (175°C) while frying; too low causes greasy shrimp, while too high burns the coating.
Batch Frying: Avoid overcrowding the pan with shrimp to ensure even cooking; this keeps the oil temperature consistent, yielding crispier results.
Double Coating: For extra crunch, follow the dredge-dip-dredge method; this adds texture that enhances the overall experience of your Hot Honey Fried Shrimp.
Versatile Sauce: Experiment with different hot sauces in the honey glaze to customize the heat level; this personal touch can make all the difference!
What to Serve with Hot Honey Fried Shrimp
Elevate your dining experience by complementing these crispy, sweet, and spicy shrimp with delightful sides that will enchant your taste buds.
- Crispy Coleslaw: A crunchy, refreshing contrast that cools the palate between bites of spicy shrimp.
- Zesty Green Salad: Bright greens with a tangy vinaigrette enhance flavor and offer a light touch to the meal.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness and crispy texture harmonize perfectly with the heat from the shrimp.
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the delicious hot honey sauce; the herbaceous notes elevate the entire dish.
- Creamy Mac and Cheese: A rich and satisfying side that balances the shrimp’s spiciness, making every bite comforting.
- Mango Salsa: Fresh and fruity, this adds a tropical flair that beautifully complements the shrimp’s heat.
- Chilled Beer: A refreshing drink that cuts through the richness of the hot honey sauce while enhancing the meal’s enjoyment.
- Lemonade: A sweet and tart beverage that refreshes and complements the sweet heat of the shrimp.
Make Ahead Options
These Hot Honey Fried Shrimp are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to save time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the hot honey sauce up to 3 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can coat the shrimp in the flour mixture and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours; doing so helps the flavors meld and keeps the shrimp dry, which is crucial for that crispy finish. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat the oil, dredge the prepped shrimp in the egg wash, fry until golden, and toss with the sauce for restaurant-quality results in no time!
Hot Honey Fried Shrimp Recipe FAQs
What type of shrimp is best for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best taste and tenderness, use large, peeled, and deveined shrimp. Fresh shrimp are optimal, but frozen shrimp can also work well. Just be sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
How should I store leftover Hot Honey Fried Shrimp?
Leftover Hot Honey Fried Shrimp should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will keep fresh for up to 1 day. To maintain their crispy texture, it’s best to reheat them in the oven rather than the microwave.
Can I freeze Hot Honey Fried Shrimp?
Yes! If you’d like to freeze your leftovers, arrange the fried shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about 1-2 hours until solid, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake them at 375°F (190°C) for approximately 10-15 minutes until crispy again.
What if my shrimp isn’t crispy after frying?
Very! There are a few common issues that can lead to soggy shrimp. First, ensure that the shrimp are thoroughly dried before coating, as moisture can affect crispiness. Additionally, fry them at the proper oil temperature (350°F or 175°C) and avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain consistent heat. If all else fails, consider double coating them for extra crunch!
Is there a way to make Hot Honey Fried Shrimp gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can easily make this recipe gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or a gluten-free breading mix. This will ensure that you still achieve that delicious, crispy coating while accommodating dietary needs.
Irresistible Hot Honey Fried Shrimp You’ll Crave Again and Again
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare Hot Honey Sauce: In a small saucepan, combine honey, hot sauce, unsalted butter, apple cider vinegar, and red pepper flakes. Heat over medium-low for about 5 minutes until smooth.
- Prep Shrimp: Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
- Make Egg Wash: In another bowl, beat eggs and milk until smooth and slightly frothy.
- Heat Oil: Pour vegetable oil into a deep-sided pan and heat to 350°F (175°C).
- Coat Shrimp: Dredge each shrimp in the flour mixture, dip in egg wash, then return to the flour.
- Fry Shrimp: Carefully place coated shrimp in hot oil and fry for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
- Toss in Sauce: Once fried, transfer shrimp to a bowl and toss with hot honey sauce until coated.
- Serve: Plate the shrimp and serve with extra hot honey sauce on the side.
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