If you’re looking for seafood dish recipes with bold flavors and irresistible textures, Hot Honey Fried Shrimp should top your list. This dish features large shrimp, coated in seasoned flour, deep-fried to golden perfection, and tossed in sweet and spicy hot honey. Whether served as a crowd-pleasing appetizer or a satisfying main course, this recipe is bound to impress!
Ingredients for Hot Honey Fried Shrimp
- 1 pound large shrimp: Thawed, peeled, deveined, with tails on.
- 1 cup (245 g) buttermilk: For marinating the shrimp.
- 1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour: The foundation for the crispy coating.
- Seasonings: Paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper for a flavorful crust.
- Vegetable oil: For deep frying.
- ½ cup (170 g) hot honey: Homemade or store-bought for that signature sweet-heat flavor.
- Chopped parsley: For garnish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Marinate the Shrimp
In a medium bowl, add shrimp and pour buttermilk over them, ensuring each piece is coated. Let the shrimp marinate at room temperature for 15 minutes to tenderize and flavor them.
2. Prepare the Seasoned Coating
In another bowl, mix the flour with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. This seasoned mixture creates the shrimp’s crispy exterior.
3. Coat the Shrimp
Remove shrimp from the buttermilk, letting excess liquid drip off. Dredge each shrimp in the seasoned flour, making sure to coat them thoroughly. Place the coated shrimp on a baking sheet while you heat the oil.
4. Fry the Shrimp
Heat about 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 and crispy. After frying, transfer shrimp to a parchment-lined baking sheet.
5. Add the Hot Honey
Drizzle hot honey over the fried shrimp while they’re still warm. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Tips for Perfectly Crispy Shrimp
- Maintain Oil Temperature: Keep the oil at a steady 350°F for consistent results.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Fry shrimp in batches to avoid lowering the oil temperature.
- Be Gentle: Avoid flipping shrimp too soon, which can cause the coating to come off.
Can You Make Hot Honey Fried Shrimp in an Air Fryer?
Yes, you can! While air-fried shrimp may not have the same crispy appearance as deep-fried ones, they still taste fantastic. Air fry breaded shrimp at 400°F for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through. Pair with hot honey for a lighter version of this dish.
Serving Ideas for Hot Honey Fried Shrimp
This versatile seafood dish recipe pairs well with a variety of sides and can be served in creative ways:
- As an Appetizer: Serve on a platter with toothpicks and extra hot honey for dipping.
- Main Course: Pair with coleslaw, roasted vegetables, or a salad for a complete meal.
- Tacos: Add to tortillas with your favorite toppings for shrimp tacos.
- Over Rice or Noodles: Serve the shrimp with steamed veggies over rice or noodles for a hearty meal.
- Salad Topper: Toss the shrimp onto a fresh salad for a flavorful twist.
Storing and Reheating
Hot Honey Fried Shrimp is best enjoyed fresh and crispy. However, if you have leftovers:
- Cool Completely: Let shrimp cool to room temperature.
- Store: Place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2-3 days.
- Reheat: Use an oven or air fryer to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving, which can make them soggy.
Hot Honey Fried Shrimp is a standout among seafood dish recipes, combining crispy textures with sweet and spicy flavors. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or preparing a quick family dinner, this dish is sure to be a hit!