Let me tell you about my absolute favorite dish: crispy hot honey fried shrimp! Seriously, these little bites are the perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors that will have everyone coming back for more. I remember the first time I made them for a gathering; the moment those shrimp hit the table, they vanished faster than I could say “delicious!” They’re fantastic as an appetizer, but trust me, they can easily stand alone as a main dish, too. I love how the crispy coating gives way to tender shrimp, all drizzled with that sweet, spicy honey sauce. It’s a flavor explosion, and I’m pretty sure you won’t be able to resist them either. Whether you’re hosting friends or just treating yourself, these shrimp are sure to impress!
Ingredients List
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons hot sauce (adjust to your taste)
- Oil for frying (enough to cover the bottom of your pan)
How to Prepare Crispy Hot Honey Fried Shrimp
Step-by-Step Instructions
Alright, let’s dive into the magic of making these crispy hot honey fried shrimp! First off, grab a big bowl and mix together your flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. This is where the flavor starts to build, so make sure it’s well combined.
Next, take your peeled and deveined shrimp and toss them into the flour mixture. Don’t be shy—get in there and coat each shrimp evenly! This step is crucial for that crispy texture we all love. Once they’re coated, set them aside for a moment.
Now, it’s time to heat up the oil. In a large skillet, pour in enough oil to cover the bottom and heat it over medium heat. You want it hot, but not smoking—aim for around 350°F (175°C). To test if it’s ready, drop a small bit of the flour mixture into the oil; if it sizzles, you’re good to go!
Carefully add the shrimp to the pan, making sure not to overcrowd them. Fry them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and crispy. Oh, the smell is heavenly! Once they’re done, use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
While those shrimp are cooling slightly, mix your honey and hot sauce in a separate bowl. Drizzle this sweet and spicy goodness over your shrimp and toss them gently to coat. Serve them hot, and watch everyone devour them in seconds!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the scoop on the nutritional information for these delightful crispy hot honey fried shrimp. Keep in mind, these values are estimates, and your actual numbers may vary depending on the specific ingredients you use and how you prepare them.
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 10g
- Protein: 15g
These shrimp pack a punch of flavor while still being a fun and satisfying treat. So go ahead and enjoy them guilt-free (well, sort of)!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare—ready in just 25 minutes!
- Irresistible combo of sweet and spicy flavors that will keep you coming back for more.
- Crispy texture that contrasts beautifully with the tender shrimp.
- Perfect as an appetizer for gatherings or as a satisfying main dish.
- Uses simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.
- Customizable heat level—adjust the hot sauce to suit your taste!
- Great for meal prep; they taste amazing fresh but can also be enjoyed later.
- Impressive enough to wow your guests but simple enough for a weeknight treat!
Tips for Success
Now, let’s make sure your crispy hot honey fried shrimp turn out absolutely perfect! Here are my go-to tips for success:
- Adjust the Heat: If you’re not a fan of too much spice, start with just a little hot sauce in your honey mixture. You can always add more if you want an extra kick! Trust me, it’s easier to add than to take away.
- Get That Perfect Crisp: Make sure your oil is hot enough before adding the shrimp. If it’s not sizzling, the shrimp will soak up the oil instead of frying. A temperature around 350°F (175°C) is ideal—use a candy thermometer if you have one, or drop a small piece of the flour mixture in to check for sizzling action!
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry the shrimp in batches if needed. Overcrowding can lower the oil temperature, which means soggy shrimp instead of crispy perfection. Give each shrimp some space to cook evenly!
- Serving Suggestions: These shrimp are fantastic on their own, but serve them with lime wedges for a zesty pop! You could also pair them with a creamy dipping sauce, like ranch or blue cheese, to balance the heat.
- Enjoy Them Fresh: For the best flavor and texture, serve your crispy hot honey fried shrimp immediately after frying. They’re truly at their best when they’re hot and fresh!
With these tips, you’re all set to impress everyone with your cooking skills! Enjoy every crispy, sweet, and spicy bite!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous (and I hope you are!), there are so many fun ways to mix things up with these crispy hot honey fried shrimp! Here are some of my favorite variations that can take your dish from great to absolutely fabulous:
- Spicy Cajun Twist: Add some Cajun seasoning to the flour mixture for a flavorful kick! The blend of spices will give your shrimp a delightful southern flair.
- Garlic Lover’s Delight: For those who adore garlic, try adding minced fresh garlic to the honey and hot sauce mixture. It’ll bring a rich, aromatic flavor that complements the sweetness perfectly.
- Asian-Inspired: Swap out the honey for sweet chili sauce and add a splash of soy sauce to the shrimp before frying. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions for a delicious Asian twist!
- Herb Infusion: Mix in some dried herbs such as oregano, thyme, or even a bit of dill into the flour for a fresh herbal note. It’s a lovely way to brighten up the flavor profile!
- Oven-Baked Option: If you want a healthier version, try baking the shrimp instead of frying! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the coated shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through until crispy.
- Sweet and Tangy: For a tangy twist, mix some barbecue sauce with the honey. The combination of flavors will create a deliciously sticky glaze that everyone will love!
- Seasonal Flavors: During the fall, consider adding some pumpkin spice to the flour mixture for an unexpected seasonal flavor that’s sure to impress!
These variations are just the tip of the iceberg! Get creative and have fun experimenting with different flavors and cooking methods. You might just discover your new favorite version of crispy hot honey fried shrimp!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving crispy hot honey fried shrimp, the options for delicious pairings are endless! I love to create a little spread that complements those sweet and spicy bites perfectly. Here are some of my favorite sides and dips that really elevate the whole experience:
- Lime Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lime juice over the shrimp adds a zesty brightness that cuts through the sweetness. Trust me, it’s a game changer!
- Creamy Dipping Sauce: A cool ranch or blue cheese dressing makes for a fantastic dip that balances the heat. The creaminess is a delightful contrast to the crispy shrimp.
- Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw, whether it’s classic or a spicy version, adds crunch and a creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the shrimp.
- Rice or Quinoa: Serve the shrimp over a bed of fluffy rice or nutty quinoa. Not only does it soak up the flavors, but it also makes for a hearty meal!
- Vegetable Stir-Fry: A colorful vegetable stir-fry with bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas adds a healthy touch and complements the shrimp’s flavors.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries are another fantastic side. Their natural sweetness pairs perfectly with the spicy honey glaze.
- Garlic Bread: For a bit of indulgence, serve with warm garlic bread. The buttery, garlicky goodness is the perfect vehicle for enjoying any leftover honey sauce!
- Pickled Vegetables: For a tangy crunch, pickled vegetables like cucumbers or radishes can add an exciting contrast to the shrimp’s flavors.
Mix and match these suggestions based on your mood and occasion! No matter what you choose, these pairings will enhance your crispy hot honey fried shrimp experience and have everyone raving about your meal.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made a big batch of crispy hot honey fried shrimp, and now you’ve got some leftovers? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered on how to store and reheat them while keeping that irresistible crunch!
First things first, let your shrimp cool completely after cooking. This step is crucial; if you store them while they’re still warm, they can become soggy. Once they’re cooled, transfer your shrimp to an airtight container. I like to layer them with a paper towel in between to help absorb any excess moisture. Seal it up tight and pop it in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 days!
When it’s time to enjoy those delicious leftovers, you’ll want to reheat them without losing that crispy texture. The best way to do this is to use an oven or an air fryer. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the shrimp out on a baking sheet in a single layer, making sure they’re not touching. Bake for about 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they’re heated through and crispy again.
If you’re using an air fryer, preheat it to 350°F (175°C) and reheat the shrimp for about 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. Both methods will get those shrimp back to their former crispy glory!
And there you have it! Now you can enjoy your crispy hot honey fried shrimp even after the main event. Just remember, they’re always best fresh, but with these tips, leftovers can still be a delightful treat!
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Crispy Hot Honey Fried Shrimp: 5 Sweet Spicy Tips!
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Crispy hot honey fried shrimp are sweet, spicy, and irresistible. They make a perfect appetizer or main dish.
Ingredients
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons hot sauce
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Coat shrimp in the flour mixture.
- Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Fry shrimp until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- In a separate bowl, mix honey and hot sauce.
- Drizzle the honey mixture over the fried shrimp.
- Toss to coat evenly.
- Serve hot.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of hot sauce to taste.
- Serve with lime wedges for extra flavor.
- These shrimp are best enjoyed fresh.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Keywords: crispy hot honey fried shrimp, sweet spicy shrimp, irresistible shrimp
