Hot Honey Fried Shrimp: A Deliciously Spicy and Sweet Seafood Delight

Hot Honey Fried Shrimp is a delightful dish that perfectly marries the crunch of golden-fried shrimp with a sweet and spicy glaze that tantalizes the taste buds. This recipe draws inspiration from Southern cuisine, where fried seafood is a beloved staple, often enjoyed at family gatherings and festive occasions. The addition of hot honey elevates the traditional fried shrimp, offering a unique twist that has captured the hearts of food enthusiasts everywhere.

People love Hot Honey Fried Shrimp not only for its irresistible flavor but also for its satisfying texture. The crispy exterior gives way to tender, juicy shrimp, while the hot honey adds a layer of complexity that keeps you coming back for more. Whether served as an appetizer or a main dish, this recipe is incredibly convenient to prepare, making it a favorite for both weeknight dinners and special celebrations. Dive into this culinary adventure and discover why Hot Honey Fried Shrimp is a dish that everyone raves about!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1-2 tablespoons red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Preparing the Shrimp

1. Start by rinsing the shrimp under cold water. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This will help the batter adhere better.
2. In a medium bowl, pour the buttermilk over the shrimp. Ensure all shrimp are well-coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This step not only adds flavor but also tenderizes the shrimp.

Preparing the Breading

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornmeal, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Whisk together until all dry ingredients are evenly mixed.
2. Set up a breading station: Place the bowl of seasoned flour and cornmeal mixture next to the bowl of buttermilk-soaked shrimp. You will also need a large plate or baking sheet to place the breaded shrimp.

Breading the Shrimp

1. Remove the shrimp from the refrigerator. One at a time, take a shrimp from the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off.
2. Coat the shrimp in the flour and cornmeal mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even coating. Shake off any excess breading and place the breaded shrimp on the prepared plate or baking sheet.
3. Repeat this process until all shrimp are breaded. You may need to re-mix the breading mixture if it becomes clumpy.

Frying the Shrimp

1. In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, pour in enough vegetable oil to reach a depth of about 2 inches. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can test the oil by dropping a small amount of the breading into the oil; if it sizzles and bubbles, it’s ready.
2. Carefully add the breaded shrimp to the hot oil in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to turn them halfway through cooking.
3. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Repeat the frying process with the remaining shrimp.

Making the Hot Honey Sauce

1. While the shrimp are frying, prepare the hot honey sauce. In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the honey and red pepper flakes. Stir gently to combine.
2. Allow the mixture to warm for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will infuse the honey with the heat from the red pepper flakes. Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes according to your heat preference.
3. Once the sauce is warmed through, remove it from the heat and set aside.

Assembling the Dish

1. Once all the shrimp are fried and drained, place them in a large mixing bowl.
2. Drizzle the hot honey sauce over the fried shrimp, tossing gently to coat all the shrimp evenly. Be careful not to break the crispy coating.
3. Transfer the hot honey fried shrimp to a serving platter. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.
4. Serve immediately with lemon wedges

Conclusion:

In summary, this Hot Honey Fried Shrimp recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their seafood game with a perfect blend of sweet and spicy flavors. The crispy texture of the shrimp, combined with the sticky, spicy honey glaze, creates a delightful contrast that will leave your taste buds dancing. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer at your next gathering, tossing it into a fresh salad for a satisfying meal, or enjoying it on its own with a side of dipping sauce, this dish is versatile enough to fit any occasion. For those looking to mix things up, consider adding a squeeze of fresh lime juice for a zesty kick or pairing the shrimp with a creamy avocado dip to balance the heat. You can also experiment with different types of honey or spices to customize the flavor profile to your liking. We encourage you to try this Hot Honey Fried Shrimp recipe and share your experience with friends and family. Don’t forget to snap a picture of your delicious creation and tag us on social media! Your culinary adventure awaits, and we can’t wait to see how you make this dish your own. Happy cooking!

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