There’s something irresistibly delightful about the contrast of crunchy, golden shrimp paired with a sweet and spicy sauce that dances on your taste buds. As I was prepping for a cozy night in, I found myself yearning for a dish that would elevate my humble dinner experience without taxing my limited time. That’s when I stumbled upon the idea of Hot Honey Fried Shrimp—a dish that transforms basic ingredients into a spectacular feast.
This simple recipe captures the essence of homemade comfort with an unforgettable twist. With plump shrimp coated in a zesty batter and doused in a luxurious hot honey sauce, it’s perfect for impressing dinner guests or treating yourself on a casual evening. The blend of spices and sweetness creates a flavor explosion that doesn’t just satisfy the hunger; it wraps you in warmth and satisfaction. So let’s dive into this quick and easy recipe that’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen!
Why is Hot Honey Fried Shrimp a Must-Try?
Deliciously addictive: The blend of sweet honey and spicy sauce makes each bite a flavor fiesta!
Crowd-pleaser: Whether for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish will impress everyone.
Quick preparation: Ready in just 40 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute cravings.
Versatile serving options: Pair it with a side salad or serve over rice for a complete meal.
Simple steps: Even novice cooks can master this recipe with ease and confidence!
Hot Honey Fried Shrimp Ingredients
For the Shrimp
• Large shrimp – 1 pound, peeled and deveined for a tender and juicy bite.
• Vegetable oil – Enough for frying, ensuring a crisp texture that won’t disappoint.
For the Coating
• All-purpose flour – 1 cup, creating a light and crispy outer layer.
• Garlic powder – 1 teaspoon, adding a savory depth that complements the shrimp beautifully.
• Onion powder – 1 teaspoon, enhancing the flavor profile with a hint of sweetness.
• Smoked paprika – 1 teaspoon, bringing a lovely smoky note to the dish.
• Cayenne pepper – ½ teaspoon, giving that delightful kick (adjust for your spice tolerance).
• Salt – ½ teaspoon, essential for balancing all the flavors.
• Black pepper – ¼ teaspoon, adding a subtle warmth.
For the Egg Mixture
• Large eggs – 2, whisked with milk for a perfectly coating consistency.
• Milk – 2 tablespoons, enriching the egg mixture for better adhesion.
For the Hot Honey Sauce
• Honey – ½ cup, the star of the dish that creates a sweet and sticky glaze.
• Hot sauce – 2 tablespoons, adjust to taste for your ideal spice level.
• Unsalted butter – 1 tablespoon, for a rich and silky texture in the sauce.
• Apple cider vinegar – 1 tablespoon, adding a tangy brightness to the sweet sauce.
• Red pepper flakes – ¼ teaspoon, for those wanting an extra burst of heat.
This Hot Honey Fried Shrimp recipe not only captivates your palate but also brings a heartwarming feeling to your kitchen. Get ready to savor the joy in every crunch!
How to Make Hot Honey Fried Shrimp
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Combine ingredients: In a small saucepan, whisk together honey, hot sauce, butter, apple cider vinegar, and red pepper flakes. Heat over medium heat until the butter melts, and the mixture is smooth, then set aside to cool slightly.
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Prepare shrimp: Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This step ensures the coating will stick properly!
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Mix dry ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. This flavorful mixture will give your shrimp that irresistible crunch.
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Whisk eggs: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs alongside the milk until well combined, creating a rich and binding wash for the shrimp.
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Heat oil: In a deep pan or frying pot, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can test by dipping a small piece of batter—if it sizzles, you’re ready to fry!
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Coat shrimp: Dredge each shrimp in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Next, dip them in the egg mixture, and then back into the flour mixture to ensure they are evenly coated.
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Fry shrimp: Carefully place the coated shrimp in the hot oil, a few at a time, without overcrowding. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. Remove them and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
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Sauce it up: Once all the shrimp are fried, toss them gently in the prepared hot honey sauce until they are thoroughly coated, allowing the sweet and spicy flavor to embrace each piece.
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Serve hot: Plate the hot honey fried shrimp immediately, offering extra sauce on the side for those who crave an extra dip!
Optional: Garnish with chopped green onions for added freshness and color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Hot Honey Fried Shrimp Pairings
There’s nothing quite like enjoying sweet and spicy hot honey fried shrimp alongside complementary side dishes that heighten your dining experience.
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Crispy Coleslaw: A fresh, tangy coleslaw will add a delightful crunch and contrast to the crispy shrimp.
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Steamed Asparagus: The lightly seasoned, tender asparagus will balance the richness of the shrimp and provide a vibrant touch.
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Garlic Bread: Serve the shrimp with toasted garlic bread, perfect for mopping up extra sauce and adding more flavor to your meal.
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Coconut Rice: The creamy, subtly sweet coconut rice delivers a fantastic flavor pairing that enhances the spiciness of the shrimp.
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Spicy Dipping Sauce: For those who crave extra heat, whip up a simple dipping sauce with additional hot sauce mixed into mayonnaise for balance.
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Crispy French Fries: A classic side, the golden fries are great for dipping into the hot honey sauce, making them a fun and casual addition.
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Quinoa Salad: A healthy quinoa salad with feta and cherry tomatoes adds a light and refreshing element, complimenting the shrimp beautifully.
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Mango Salsa: A fresh mango salsa with lime juice and cilantro will boost the flavor profile, bringing a bright and zesty contrast to the dish.
Let your imagination run wild as you mix and match these delectable options to create the perfect meal around your hot honey fried shrimp!
Make Ahead Options
These Hot Honey Fried Shrimp are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the shrimp by rinsing and patting them dry up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can mix the dry ingredients for the coating and keep the seasoned flour mixture in a sealed bag for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to cook, simply follow the frying and sauce-tossing steps as usual. By prepping ahead, you ensure a quicker cooking process without sacrificing any flavor, resulting in deliciously crispy shrimp just when you need them!
How to Store and Freeze Hot Honey Fried Shrimp
Fridge: Store leftover hot honey fried shrimp in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain crispiness.
Freezer: Freeze cooked shrimp in a single layer, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: For best results, reheat fried shrimp in the oven or an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and crispy—microwaving is not recommended as it can make them soggy.
By storing properly, you can enjoy the delightful taste of hot honey fried shrimp even after the initial meal!
Expert Tips for Hot Honey Fried Shrimp
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Shrimp Size Matters: Choose large shrimp for the best texture and flavor; smaller ones can overcook easily during frying.
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Dry Before Coating: Patting the shrimp dry removes excess moisture, ensuring the coating adheres better and results in a crunchier finish.
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Heat Check: Use a thermometer to ensure the oil reaches 350°F (175°C) for perfect frying. Too cool oil leads to soggy shrimp, while too hot can burn the coating.
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Dredging Technique: When dredging the shrimp, make sure to shake off the excess flour, as a thick coating can become gummy instead of crispy.
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Fry in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain the oil temperature. Frying in small batches ensures each shrimp gets that lovely golden color.
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Custom Heat Level: Adjust the hot sauce in the hot honey sauce to your taste, but remember to balance it with honey for the best sweet-spicy combo.
What to Serve with Hot Honey Fried Shrimp?
Creating a memorable meal is all about the perfect pairings that complement your delightful dish with warmth and flavor.
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Crispy Coleslaw: A refreshing crunch cuts through the sweetness of the shrimp, providing a light and tangy contrast.
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Fragrant Jasmine Rice: Fluffy jasmine rice acts as a perfect cushion for the intense flavors, soaking up the delicious hot honey sauce.
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Garlic Butter Noodles: Savory noodles tossed in garlic butter enhance the meal with a rich, buttery finish, making every bite a delight.
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Grilled Vegetables: Charred seasonal vegetables add a smoky element and vibrant colors to your table, balancing out the dish’s sweetness.
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Sweet Potato Fries: These offer a sweet and crispy counterpart to the spicy shrimp, satisfying your cravings for texture and taste.
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Sparkling Lemonade: A fizzy lemonade brightens the palate, refreshing you between bites while echoing the sweetness of the honey.
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Chocolate Lava Cake: End your meal on a high note with a warm, gooey dessert that provides an indulgent contrast to the spicy shrimp.
Embrace these delightful pairings—your dining experience will be elevated to a cozy feast bursting with flavor!
Hot Honey Fried Shrimp Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting shrimp, opt for large, fresh shrimp with a firm texture and a slight ocean smell. Avoid any that have dark spots or a strong fishy odor. If buying frozen, ensure they’re individually quick-frozen (IQF) for the best quality.
What’s the best way to store leftover hot honey fried shrimp?
For storage, place your leftover hot honey fried shrimp in an airtight container and refrigerate. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes for that delightful crunch again!
Can I freeze cooked hot honey fried shrimp?
Absolutely! To freeze, arrange the cooked shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag, where they can stay fresh for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before baking or air frying at 350°F (175°C) until crispy.
What can I do if my shrimp coating isn’t sticking properly?
If your coating isn’t adhering well, try patting the shrimp dry with paper towels after rinsing and before dredging. Ensure you’re using enough egg mixture to coat the shrimp thoroughly. If they still seem off, let the coated shrimp rest for about 10 minutes before frying, allowing the flour to set.
Are there any dietary considerations I should know about?
Definitely! If you have shellfish allergies, avoid this recipe. For a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Additionally, adjust the hot sauce and red pepper flakes according to spice tolerance, especially for young children or sensitive diners.
Irresistible Hot Honey Fried Shrimp That Will Spark Joy
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a small saucepan, whisk together honey, hot sauce, butter, apple cider vinegar, and red pepper flakes. Heat until the butter melts, then set aside to cool slightly.
- Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs alongside the milk until well combined.
- In a deep pan or frying pot, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
- Dredge each shrimp in the flour mixture, shake off excess, then dip in the egg mixture, and back into the flour mixture.
- Carefully place the coated shrimp in the hot oil and fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Once all the shrimp are fried, toss them gently in the prepared hot honey sauce until coated.
- Plate the hot honey fried shrimp immediately, offering extra sauce on the side.