Name: Hot Honey Fried Shrimp
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 3 min
Total time: 13 min
Ingredients: 1 pound large shrimp, thawed, peeled, deveined, tail-on; 1 cup (245 g) buttermilk; 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; Vegetable oil, for frying; ½ cup (170 g) hot honey (homemade or store-bought); Parsley, chopped, for garnish

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Hot Honey Fried Shrimp is the perfect fusion of sweet and spicy flavors with a crispy, golden coating. Deep-fried to perfection, these shrimp are tossed in a luscious hot honey glaze that balances the spice with just the right amount of sweetness. They make an ideal appetizer or can be served as the main course paired with your favorite side dishes. This recipe is versatile and easy to prepare, making it an excellent choice for dinner parties, game days, or a quick weeknight treat. The homemade hot honey adds a customizable touch, allowing you to adjust the heat level to your liking. Whether you’re a fan of spice or just love crispy seafood, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

1 pound large shrimp, thawed, peeled, deveined, tail-on
1 cup (245 g) buttermilk

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
Vegetable oil, for frying
½ cup (170 g) hot honey (homemade or store-bought)

Parsley, chopped, for garnish

Directions:

Add the shrimp to a medium bowl. Pour the buttermilk over the shrimp, ensuring they are fully coated. Let marinate at room temperature for 15 minutes.
In another bowl, mix the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.

Remove the shrimp from the marinade, letting excess buttermilk drip off, and coat each shrimp in the seasoned flour mixture. Place them on a baking sheet.
Heat 2 inches of vegetable oil in a large pot to 350°F, using a candy or deep-fry thermometer to monitor the temperature.
Fry the shrimp in small batches for 2-3 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy. Allow the oil to return to 350°F between batches.

Transfer the shrimp to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Drizzle with hot honey and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve immediately.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Marinating Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 3 minutes
Total Time: 28 minutes
Kcal: 904 per serving
Servings: 4

Exploring the Sweet and Spicy Magic of Hot Honey Fried Shrimp

Hot Honey Fried Shrimp is more than just a dish; it’s a culinary experience that brings together the perfect balance of crispy, golden textures and a tantalizing sweet-and-spicy glaze. This recipe is a harmonious fusion of Southern-inspired fried shrimp and a bold hot honey drizzle that takes the flavor profile to new heights. Whether you’re hosting a party, planning a family dinner, or simply indulging in some comfort food, this dish is a showstopper that delivers on taste, versatility, and presentation.

The Appeal of Hot Honey Fried Shrimp

What makes this dish irresistible is its multi-dimensional flavor profile. The shrimp, coated in a seasoned flour mixture, is fried to a perfect crunch. This crispiness is complemented by the hot honey glaze, which combines the natural sweetness of honey with a kick of heat from crushed red pepper flakes. The result is a balance that appeals to both sweet and spicy flavor enthusiasts. Every bite delivers a satisfying crunch followed by a burst of complex, harmonious flavors.

The simplicity of the ingredients used in this recipe also adds to its appeal. With pantry staples like all-purpose flour and spices, combined with a homemade hot honey sauce, this dish feels both accessible and indulgent. It’s the kind of recipe that can easily be elevated for special occasions or simplified for a quick and delicious weeknight meal.

A Versatile Dish for Any Occasion

Hot Honey Fried Shrimp can be served in a variety of ways, making it a versatile addition to any meal plan. As an appetizer, it shines when paired with extra hot honey for dipping. For a main course, it pairs beautifully with side dishes like coleslaw, roasted vegetables, or creamy mashed potatoes. If you’re feeling adventurous, it can also be used to create a vibrant shrimp taco or added as a topping to salads and grain bowls for an extra punch of flavor.

This dish also works well for casual gatherings or formal dinner parties. The visually stunning presentation of crispy, golden shrimp garnished with chopped parsley and drizzled with hot honey will undoubtedly impress your guests. The combination of bold flavors and crunchy textures ensures that it will be a memorable addition to any dining experience.

The Art of Achieving Crispy Perfection

The key to this recipe lies in achieving the perfect crispy texture, and there are a few simple tips to ensure success. Maintaining the oil temperature at 350°F is essential for frying the shrimp evenly without becoming greasy. Using a thermometer helps to keep the temperature consistent, especially when frying multiple batches. Additionally, avoiding overcrowding the pan ensures that each piece of shrimp cooks evenly and retains its crunch.

Another important factor is the seasoned flour mixture, which not only adds flavor but also creates a golden, crunchy coating. This mixture clings beautifully to the shrimp, especially after marinating in buttermilk, which tenderizes the shrimp while providing a slight tanginess.

Homemade Hot Honey: A Flavorful Finish

While the fried shrimp is delightful on its own, the hot honey glaze is what truly elevates this dish. Making your own hot honey at home allows you to customize the spice level to your liking. Whether you prefer a mild heat or something that packs a punch, the amount of red pepper flakes can be adjusted accordingly.

Hot honey has become a trending condiment in recent years, appreciated for its versatility and bold flavor. It pairs wonderfully with fried foods, cheeses, biscuits, and even pizza. By incorporating it into this shrimp recipe, you’re adding a touch of culinary flair that feels both contemporary and comforting.

A Crowd-Pleaser for All Seasons

One of the great things about Hot Honey Fried Shrimp is that it suits all seasons and occasions. In the summer, it’s a hit at barbecues and picnics, where its sweet-and-spicy flavors pair well with cold beverages and fresh salads. In colder months, it becomes a comforting dish that warms you up with its heat and richness. It’s also a great choice for game day spreads, family dinners, or festive celebrations.

The recipe’s adaptability extends to dietary preferences and substitutions. For a healthier twist, the shrimp can be prepared in an air fryer, though it may not achieve the same deep-fried crispiness. Alternatively, gluten-free flour can be used to accommodate dietary restrictions, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delicious dish.

Storing and Reheating Tips

While Hot Honey Fried Shrimp is best enjoyed fresh, it can be stored and reheated with a little care. After cooking, let the shrimp cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, they can last up to 2-3 days. Reheating in an oven or air fryer is recommended to restore their crispiness, as microwaving may lead to a soggy texture.

For meal prep enthusiasts, the shrimp can be coated and refrigerated before frying, making it easier to prepare fresh batches when needed. The hot honey glaze can also be made in advance and stored in a sealed jar at room temperature, ready to drizzle whenever you’re ready to serve.

Conclusion:

Hot Honey Fried Shrimp is a culinary masterpiece that combines the comfort of fried food with the excitement of bold, modern flavors. Its crispy, golden coating and sweet-and-spicy glaze make it a dish that’s both indulgent and well-balanced. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or treating yourself to something special, this recipe is guaranteed to deliver satisfaction with every bite.

Its versatility, ease of preparation, and unforgettable flavor make it a must-try for seafood lovers and adventurous eaters alike. Once you experience the magic of this dish, it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. From casual dinners to celebratory occasions, Hot Honey Fried Shrimp is a recipe that’s always worth sharing.