Hot Honey Fried Shrimp

Hot Honey Fried Shrimp is a delightful dish that perfectly merges crispy, sweet, and spicy flavors. This recipe is not only quick to prepare but also versatile, making it ideal for any gathering or occasion. Whether you’re hosting a game night, serving up appetizers for a dinner party, or simply craving something delicious at home, these shrimp will surely impress. The standout quality of this dish lies in its crunchy coating and the irresistible hot honey glaze that elevates each bite.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Shrimp
• For the Hot Honey Glaze
• How to Make Hot Honey Fried Shrimp
• Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
• Step 2: Set Up Your Breading Station
• Step 3: Bread the Shrimp
• Step 4: Fry the Shrimp
• Step 5: Make the Hot Honey Glaze
• Step 6: Serve
• How to Serve Hot Honey Fried Shrimp
• As An Appetizer
• In Tacos
• On a Salad
• With Rice or Quinoa
• As Part of a Party Platter
• How to Perfect Hot Honey Fried Shrimp
• Best Side Dishes for Hot Honey Fried Shrimp
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Hot Honey Fried Shrimp
• Reheating Hot Honey Fried Shrimp
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is Hot Honey Fried Shrimp?
• How do I make Hot Honey Fried Shrimp spicier?
• Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
• What sides pair well with Hot Honey Fried Shrimp?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy Texture: The combination of panko breadcrumbs and a flavorful batter creates an addictive crunch.
• Sweet and Spicy Flavor: The hot honey glaze adds a unique twist that tantalizes your taste buds with every bite.
• Quick Preparation: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up this dish in no time.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as an appetizer, main course, or part of a larger platter; it’s perfect for any occasion.
• Easy Customization: Adjust the heat by varying the amount of hot sauce to suit your taste preferences.

Tools and Preparation

To create the best Hot Honey Fried Shrimp, you’ll need some essential tools and equipment. Having the right tools will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Deep frying pot or skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Tongs
• Cooking thermometer

Importance of Each Tool

• Deep frying pot or skillet: Ensures even cooking and maintains oil temperature for crispy shrimp.
• Mixing bowls: Allows for easy preparation of batter and honey glaze without spills.
• Whisk: Perfect for blending ingredients smoothly, especially when mixing the hot honey glaze.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs

For the Hot Honey Glaze

• ½ cup honey
• 2-3 tablespoons hot sauce (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

How to Make Hot Honey Fried Shrimp

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
2. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to this mixture and toss to coat evenly.

Step 2: Set Up Your Breading Station

1. In one bowl, pour the buttermilk. In another bowl, add the all-purpose flour.
2. Place panko breadcrumbs in a third bowl.

Step 3: Bread the Shrimp

1. Dip each seasoned shrimp into the buttermilk first.
2. Then coat it with flour before finally rolling it in panko breadcrumbs until fully covered.

Step 4: Fry the Shrimp

1. Heat vegetable oil in your deep frying pot or skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
2. Carefully add shrimp in batches to avoid overcrowding and fry until golden brown (about 2–3 minutes per side).
3. Remove fried shrimp from oil using tongs and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 5: Make the Hot Honey Glaze

1. In a small saucepan over low heat, melt butter.
2. Stir in honey, hot sauce, red pepper flakes (if using), and apple cider vinegar until well combined.

Step 6: Serve

Drizzle the hot honey glaze over the crispy shrimp just before serving. Enjoy your delicious Hot Honey Fried Shrimp!

How to Serve Hot Honey Fried Shrimp

Hot Honey Fried Shrimp is versatile and can be served in various ways to delight your guests. Here are some creative serving suggestions that elevate this delicious dish.

As An Appetizer

• Serve the shrimp on a platter with toothpicks for easy grabbing.
• Pair them with a zesty dipping sauce like ranch or blue cheese for extra flavor.

In Tacos

• Use soft tortillas to create tasty shrimp tacos.
• Top with fresh cabbage, avocado, and a drizzle of the hot honey glaze for a unique twist.

On a Salad

• Toss the shrimp over a bed of mixed greens.
• Add cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing meal.

With Rice or Quinoa

• Serve the shrimp alongside fluffy rice or quinoa.
• Drizzle more hot honey on top for an added kick and sweetness.

As Part of a Party Platter

• Combine the shrimp with other appetizers like sliders or vegetable platters.
• This makes for an impressive spread at gatherings or game day parties.

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How to Perfect Hot Honey Fried Shrimp

To achieve the best results with your Hot Honey Fried Shrimp, consider these tips for optimal flavor and texture.

• Use fresh shrimp: Fresh shrimp enhances taste and texture. Frozen shrimp works too, but ensure they’re properly thawed before cooking.
• Season the batter well: Add additional spices to your flour mixture for more flavor. Consider cayenne pepper or onion powder.
• Maintain oil temperature: Keep oil at 350°F (175°C) while frying. This ensures crispy coating without being greasy.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Fry in small batches to maintain heat and cook evenly, which leads to better crispiness.
• Drizzle hot honey generously: The hot honey glaze should be liberally applied after frying for maximum sweetness and heat.
• Garnish creatively: Consider adding fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley on top before serving for added color and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Hot Honey Fried Shrimp

Pairing your Hot Honey Fried Shrimp with complementary side dishes can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Coleslaw: A crunchy cabbage slaw provides freshness that balances the spicy shrimp.
2. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness; consider brushing it with butter and sprinkle chili powder.
3. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread serves as an excellent vessel for any leftover hot honey glaze.
4. Crispy Fries: Classic French fries are always a hit; try sweet potato fries for a twist!
5. Vegetable Stir-Fry: A medley of colorful vegetables sautéed lightly complements the fried shrimp beautifully.
6. Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad brings comfort food vibes that pair perfectly with spicy dishes.
7. Macaroni and Cheese: Rich and cheesy, this dish offers a delightful contrast to the heat of the shrimp.
8. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs is an excellent base that absorbs all flavors well.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls can elevate your Hot Honey Fried Shrimp to the next level.

• Not drying the shrimp: Make sure to pat your shrimp dry before seasoning and breading. This step helps the batter adhere better and results in a crispier finish.
• Skipping the marination: Allowing the shrimp to marinate in buttermilk for at least 15 minutes enhances flavor and tenderness. Don’t rush this step for maximum taste.
• Using too much oil: Ensure your frying oil is hot enough before adding shrimp. Overcrowding the pan with too much shrimp will drop the temperature, leading to soggy shrimp instead of crispy ones.
• Ignoring spice levels: Adjust the amount of hot sauce in your honey glaze according to your heat preference. A little taste test will ensure it’s just right for you!
• Not letting them rest: After frying, let the shrimp rest on a paper towel-lined plate. This helps absorb any excess oil and keeps them crispy.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cooked Hot Honey Fried Shrimp in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Hot Honey Fried Shrimp

• Place cooled shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet before freezing.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.

Reheating Hot Honey Fried Shrimp

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place shrimp on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-12 minutes until crispy.
• Microwave: Use for quick reheating but expect some loss of crispiness. Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a touch of oil if needed, for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Hot Honey Fried Shrimp.

What is Hot Honey Fried Shrimp?

Hot Honey Fried Shrimp is a dish featuring crispy fried shrimp drizzled with a sweet and spicy honey glaze that elevates its flavor profile.

How do I make Hot Honey Fried Shrimp spicier?

To enhance the heat, simply add more hot sauce or red pepper flakes into your honey mixture. Taste as you go!

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking for best results.

What sides pair well with Hot Honey Fried Shrimp?

Consider serving it with coleslaw, rice, or a fresh salad. These sides complement the dish’s flavors wonderfully.

Final Thoughts

Hot Honey Fried Shrimp combines sweetness and spice, making it an irresistible choice for gatherings or cozy dinners at home. With simple adjustments, you can customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences. Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!