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Welcome to another mouth-watering recipe that combines the best of crispy fried shrimp with a flavorful twist of hot honey. Whether you’re looking for a tasty appetizer or a main dish with a punch, this Hot Honey Fried Shrimp recipe will soon become a favorite in your kitchen. Get ready to experience the perfect blend of sweet and spicy in every crunchy bite!

Introduction

If you’re a fan of crispy seafood dishes and love a kick of spice, this Hot Honey Fried Shrimp recipe is just for you. This dish originates from a fusion of Southern fried seafood traditions and the contemporary trend of adding sweetness to balance spiciness, making it the perfect combination of flavor and texture. The recipe is incredibly simple to make, and the hot honey brings a dynamic sweet-spicy balance that elevates the humble shrimp to a new level. Not only is this dish a must-try for fans of fried seafood, but it’s also ideal for anyone who loves bold flavors in their meals.

Related recipe: If you’re a fan of dipping sauces, don’t miss this chick fil a sauce recipe.

Ingredients for Hot Honey Fried Shrimp

Here’s everything you need to prepare this crispy, flavorful shrimp dish:

• 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

Optional Substitutions

• Buttermilk: For a dairy-free option, substitute with almond or coconut milk mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice.
• Flour: Use gluten-free flour for a celiac-friendly version of the recipe.

How to Make Hot Honey Fried Shrimp – Step by Step

Step1: Prepare the Shrimp

• Place your shrimp in a medium bowl and pour buttermilk over them, ensuring every shrimp is well-coated. Let it marinate at room temperature for about 15 minutes for tender, flavorful shrimp.

Step2: Season the Flour

• In a separate bowl, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. This will be your dredging mixture to give the shrimp their crispy coating.

Step3: Dredge the Shrimp

• Remove the shrimp from the marinade, allowing any excess buttermilk to drip off. Dredge each shrimp in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring each one is thoroughly coated. Set them aside on a large baking sheet.

Step4: Fry the Shrimp

• Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a large pot to 350°F using a deep-fry thermometer. Carefully fry the shrimp in batches for about 2–3 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are crispy and golden brown.

Step5: Add the Hot Honey

• Remove the shrimp from the oil using a slotted spoon and place them on a lined baking sheet. Immediately drizzle with hot honey for that signature sweet and spicy finish.

Step6: Garnish and Serve

• Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot. You can enjoy these shrimp on their own, or pair them with a side dish like fries or coleslaw.

Helpful Tips for Hot Honey Fried Shrimp

• Keep it Crispy: For the crispiest shrimp, ensure that the oil stays at a consistent 350°F throughout frying.
• Avoid Overcrowding: Fry the shrimp in small batches to prevent the temperature of the oil from dropping, which can lead to soggy shrimp.
• Make it Extra Spicy: If you love extra heat, add more cayenne pepper to the flour mixture or use a hotter variety of honey.

Cooking Tips for the Best Hot Honey Fried Shrimp

Use Fresh Shrimp

Fresh shrimp will give you the best flavor and texture. If you’re using frozen shrimp, make sure they’re fully thawed before marinating.

The Right Oil

Using vegetable oil or another neutral oil with a high smoke point is essential for deep-frying. Avoid oils like olive oil that can burn at higher temperatures.

Double Dredging

For an extra crispy coating, try dredging the shrimp in the flour mixture twice. Dip them back in buttermilk and dredge again before frying.

Serving Suggestions for Hot Honey Fried Shrimp

These delicious shrimp pair beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few suggestions:

• Crispy French Fries: The perfect companion for shrimp, offering another layer of crunch.
• Coleslaw: A refreshing side to balance the heat from the hot honey.
• Cornbread: A Southern favorite that complements the shrimp’s flavors.

To elevate the meal even more, serve with a light white wine or an iced lemonade to refresh your palate between bites.

Nutritional Information for Hot Honey Fried Shrimp

This dish offers a delightful mix of flavors and nutrients. Each serving provides:

• Calories: 280
• Fat: 15g
• Carbs: 20g
• Protein: 15g
• Vitamins: Rich in Vitamin D and Omega-3s, making this a heart-healthy option.

Nutritional info for Hot Honey Fried Shrimp ensures that you’re not only enjoying a tasty meal but also getting some nutritional benefits, including a good source of lean protein.

Storage and Leftovers for Hot Honey Fried Shrimp

Store any leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. Place the shrimp on a baking sheet and reheat for 5-7 minutes until they regain their crispy texture.

Avoid microwaving as it can make the shrimp soggy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Hot Honey Fried Shrimp

1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just make sure they are fully thawed before marinating.

2. How can I make homemade hot honey?

Simply mix honey with your favorite hot sauce or red pepper flakes for a quick homemade version.

3. What’s the best oil for frying shrimp?

Neutral oils like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil are ideal due to their high smoke points.

4. How do I know when the shrimp are done?

The shrimp will turn golden brown and will feel firm to the touch when done.

Related Recipes for Hot Honey Shrimp Lovers

If you enjoyed this recipe, you might also like these:

• Homemade Pickled Shrimp Recipe
• Spicy Jalapeno Cornbread Recipe

Conclusion

This Hot Honey Fried Shrimp recipe is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or preparing a quick weeknight meal, the combination of crispy shrimp and sweet-spicy honey is sure to impress. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your variations or thoughts in the comments below. Enjoy!

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