Irresistible Hot Honey Fried Shrimp

Crispy, juicy shrimp coated in a sweet-spicy hot honey glaze! Perfectly golden fried shrimp with the ideal balance of crunch, sweetness, and heat. A must-try for seafood lovers!

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I still remember the first time I made hot honey fried shrimp in my tiny coastal kitchen. The sizzle of perfectly battered shrimp hitting hot oil, the aroma of sweet honey mingling with fiery chili—it was a moment of culinary magic that transported me straight to the seafood shacks of the Southern coast. That first bite, with its perfect balance of crunch, sweetness, and heat, sparked a decade-long obsession.

After ten years of perfecting this recipe, I’m thrilled to share my ultimate version of hot honey fried shrimp with you. In this article, I’ll reveal all my secrets for creating this unforgettable dish that combines crispy fried goodness with the complex sweetness of hot honey. Join me on this flavor journey as we explore what makes this dish so incredibly special.

Hot honey fried shrimp is a meal that will make your taste buds dance with joy. It’s perfect for those who love the contrast of sweet and spicy, or anyone looking to elevate their seafood game with something truly memorable. Let’s dive into what makes this dish the ultimate indulgence.

Key Takeaways

• Learn the secrets to achieving perfectly crispy fried shrimp every time
• Discover the importance of selecting and preparing fresh shrimp properly
• Understand how to create balanced hot honey sauce with the perfect heat level
• Get expert tips for frying techniques that guarantee golden, crispy results
• Find versatile serving suggestions to transform this dish for any occasion
• Explore creative variations to customize your hot honey fried shrimp

What Makes Hot Honey Fried Shrimp Special

The magical combination of crispy, juicy shrimp coated in a sweet-spicy honey glaze makes crispy hot honey fried shrimp recipe truly extraordinary. This dish delivers an explosion of contrasting flavors and textures that create an unforgettable culinary experience.

The Perfect Balance of Sweet and Spicy

Hot honey fried shrimp achieves the culinary holy grail—perfect balance. The natural sweetness of shrimp enhanced by a honey glaze creates a delicious foundation, while the heat from chili peppers adds complexity without overwhelming. This harmonious contrast keeps you coming back for “just one more” until the plate is mysteriously empty.

The Textural Contrast That Makes It Irresistible

Beyond flavor, the textural elements of spicy honey glazed fried shrimp make it exceptional. The satisfying crunch of the perfectly fried exterior gives way to tender, succulent shrimp meat. Then comes the sticky, glossy honey coating that adds another dimension of mouthfeel. This interplay of textures creates a multi-sensory experience that elevates the dish beyond simple fried seafood.

A Brief History of Sweet and Spicy Seafood

While the exact origins of hot honey fried shrimp are difficult to pinpoint, the dish draws inspiration from various culinary traditions. Southern American cuisine has long celebrated fried seafood, while the sweet-spicy combination echoes Asian flavor profiles like those found in Thai and Chinese cooking. The recent hot honey trend, popularized in Brooklyn pizzerias around 2010, eventually made its way to seafood, creating this contemporary classic that feels both innovative and familiar.

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Hot Honey Fried Shrimp

To create truly outstanding crispy hot honey fried shrimp recipe, you need to start with the right ingredients. Quality matters tremendously in this dish, as each component plays a crucial role in the final result. Let’s break down what you’ll need for both the shrimp and the signature hot honey sauce.

For the fried shrimp:

• 1½ pounds large shrimp (16-20 count), peeled and deveined
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup cornstarch
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup buttermilk
• Vegetable oil for frying

For the hot honey sauce:

• 1 cup honey
• ¼ cup hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot or Sriracha)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• ½ teaspoon salt

These ingredients combine to create the perfect balance of flavors and textures in your easy hot honey shrimp with crispy coating. The shrimp will be juicy inside with a golden, crunchy exterior, all enveloped in a sweet-spicy glaze that clings to every bite.

Selecting and Preparing the Perfect Shrimp

The foundation of exceptional hot honey fried shrimp begins with selecting and properly preparing quality shrimp. This critical first step determines the flavor, texture, and overall success of your dish.

Choosing the Best Shrimp

For optimal results:

• Size matters: Select large shrimp (16-20 count per pound) for the best texture-to-coating ratio
• Fresh vs. frozen: Either works well, but if buying frozen, look for IQF (individually quick frozen) shrimp without added preservatives
• Wild-caught vs. farm-raised: Wild-caught often has better flavor but sustainable farm-raised is a good alternative
• Shell-on or peeled: Buy what’s convenient, but know that shell-on shrimp often have better flavor

Proper Cleaning and Deveining Techniques

Follow these steps for perfectly prepared shrimp:

1. If frozen, thaw shrimp overnight in the refrigerator or in a colander under cold running water
2. Peel the shrimp, leaving the tail on for a handle if desired
3. Devein by making a shallow cut along the back and removing the dark intestinal tract
4. Rinse under cold water and pat thoroughly dry with paper towels

The Crucial Drying Step

Don’t skip this important preparation step for southern style hot honey fried shrimp:

• After cleaning, place shrimp on paper towels and pat completely dry
• Let sit for 10-15 minutes to air dry further
• Moisture is the enemy of crispy coating—properly dried shrimp will yield a much better result

Creating the Perfect Crispy Coating

The coating is what transforms ordinary shrimp into extraordinary crispy hot honey fried shrimp recipe. This section explains how to achieve that perfect golden crunch that shatters with each bite.

The Science Behind Ultra-Crispy Batter

The secret to superior crispiness lies in understanding the science:

• Cornstarch mixed with flour creates a lighter, crispier texture than flour alone
• Baking powder creates tiny air bubbles that expand when fried, resulting in extra crunch
• Cold batter ingredients help delay gluten formation, which can make coating tough
• Double-dredging creates multiple layers for maximum crispiness

Step-by-Step Coating Process

For perfect coating every time:

1. Set up a dredging station with three shallow dishes
2. In the first dish, combine 1 cup flour, ½ cup cornstarch, baking powder, and half the seasonings
3. In the second dish, whisk eggs and buttermilk until combined
4. In the third dish, combine remaining flour, cornstarch, and seasonings
5. Working with a few shrimp at a time, dredge in the first dry mixture
6. Dip in the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off
7. Coat thoroughly in the second dry mixture, pressing gently to adhere
8. Place on a wire rack and let rest for 10 minutes before frying

Mastering the Frying Process

Frying might seem intimidating, but with proper technique, you can achieve restaurant-quality southern-style hot honey-fried shrimp at home. The frying method is crucial for developing that perfect golden crust while keeping the shrimp tender and juicy.

Equipment and Oil Selection

For optimal frying results:

• Use a heavy-bottomed Dutch oven or deep cast iron skillet for even heat distribution
• Choose an oil with a high smoke point like vegetable, peanut, or canola oil
• Use a deep-fry thermometer to monitor oil temperature accurately
• Have a spider strainer or slotted spoon ready for removing shrimp

Temperature Control Secrets

Temperature management is critical:

1. Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) before adding any shrimp
2. Maintain temperature between 325-350°F throughout frying
3. Fry in small batches to prevent oil temperature from dropping too much
4. Allow oil to return to proper temperature between batches

Timing for Perfectly Cooked Shrimp

Prevent overcooking with proper timing:

• Fry shrimp for just 2-3 minutes total until golden brown
• Shrimp cook quickly—they’re done when they float to the surface and turn pink
• Immediately transfer to a paper towel-lined plate or wire rack to drain
• Remember that residual heat will continue cooking the shrimp slightly after removal

Creating the Ultimate Hot Honey Sauce

The signature sauce is what transforms ordinary fried shrimp into crave-worthy sweet and spicy fried shrimp with honey. This section explores how to create a perfectly balanced hot honey that will have everyone asking for your secret recipe.

Balancing Sweetness and Heat

Creating perfectly balanced hot honey:

1. Start with high-quality honey as your base (wildflower or orange blossom work well)
2. Add heat gradually—you can always increase, but can’t take it away
3. Include acidic elements like vinegar or citrus to balance sweetness
4. Add a small amount of salt to enhance all flavors

Infusion Techniques for Maximum Flavor

For deeper flavor development:

1. Gently warm honey (don’t boil) with crushed red pepper flakes
2. Allow the mixture to steep for at least 30 minutes (or up to 24 hours for more intense heat)
3. Strain if desired for a smoother texture or leave pepper flakes in
4. Incorporate butter for richness and garlic for aromatic depth

Customizing the Heat Level

Adjust heat to your preference:

• Mild: 1-2 teaspoons red pepper flakes + 1 tablespoon hot sauce
• Medium: 1 tablespoon red pepper flakes + 2-3 tablespoons hot sauce
• Hot: 2 tablespoons red pepper flakes + ¼ cup hot sauce
• Extra hot: Add ½ teaspoon cayenne or ¼ teaspoon ghost pepper powder

The Perfect Glazing Technique

The glazing process is where spicy honey glazed fried shrimp truly comes together. This critical step ensures every piece is evenly coated with that irresistible sweet-heat combination.

Timing: When to Apply the Glaze

Proper timing is essential:

1. Glaze the shrimp immediately after frying while still hot
2. If glazed too early, the coating will soften; too late, and the honey won’t adhere properly
3. Have your sauce ready and warm before you begin frying
4. Work quickly once shrimp are cooked

Methods for Even Coating

Choose the right glazing method:

• Toss method: Place shrimp in a large metal bowl and drizzle with warm sauce, then gently toss
• Brush method: Arrange shrimp on a wire rack and brush each piece with sauce
• Dip method: Briefly dip each piece in warm sauce and place on a serving platter

Preserving the Crispy Texture

Keep shrimp crispy even after glazing:

1. Ensure sauce is warm but not hot when applied
2. Use a light hand—coat shrimp evenly but don’t drown them
3. Serve immediately after glazing for maximum crispiness
4. For make-ahead options, keep sauce and fried shrimp separate until serving time

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Elevate your easy hot honey shrimp with crispy coating with thoughtful serving suggestions and pairings that complement its sweet-spicy profile.

Perfect Side Dishes

Complement your shrimp with:

• Creamy coleslaw for cooling contrast
• Southern-style cornbread to soak up extra sauce
• Crispy french fries or sweet potato fries
• Garlic butter rice for a substantial meal
• Grilled corn on the cob with lime butter

Dipping Sauce Options

Offer additional dipping options:

• Blue cheese dressing for heat contrast
• Ranch dressing with fresh herbs
• Extra hot honey on the side
• Cilantro-lime crema
• Tangy remoulade sauce

Presentation Ideas

Serve with style:

• Line a basket with checkered paper for casual presentation
• Use a slate or wooden board for rustic appeal
• Garnish with thinly sliced green onions and sesame seeds
• Add lemon wedges for brightness and color contrast
• Drizzle additional hot honey across the platter for visual appeal

Hot Honey Fried Shrimp

Crispy, juicy shrimp coated in a sweet-spicy hot honey glaze! Perfectly golden fried shrimp with the ideal balance of crunch, sweetness, and heat. A must-try for seafood lovers!

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Cuisine American

Servings 6 people

Calories 550 kcal

Equipment

• Deep-fry thermometer

Ingredients

  

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For the Fried Shrimp:

• 1½ pounds large shrimp 16-20 count, peeled and deveined
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup cornstarch
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup buttermilk
• Vegetable oil for frying

For the Hot Honey Sauce:

• 1 cup honey
• ¼ cup hot sauce Frank’s RedHot or Sriracha
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• ½ teaspoon salt

Instructions

 

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

• If frozen, thaw shrimp under cold running water.
• Peel and devein shrimp, leaving tails on if desired.
• Pat shrimp completely dry with paper towels and let sit for 10-15 minutes.

Step 2: Set Up the Dredging Station

• In a shallow dish, combine 1 cup flour, ½ cup cornstarch, baking powder, and half the seasonings.
• In a second dish, whisk eggs and buttermilk.
• In a third dish, mix remaining flour, cornstarch, and seasonings.

Step 3: Coat the Shrimp

• Dredge shrimp in the first flour mixture, shaking off excess.
• Dip into the egg mixture, then coat thoroughly in the second flour mixture.
• Place coated shrimp on a wire rack and let rest for 10 minutes.

Step 4: Fry the Shrimp

• Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C).
• Fry shrimp in small batches for 2-3 minutes, until golden brown.
• Remove and drain on a wire rack or paper towels.

Step 5: Make the Hot Honey Sauce

• In a saucepan over low heat, melt butter.
• Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
• Stir in honey, hot sauce, vinegar, red pepper flakes, and salt.
• Simmer for 2 minutes, then remove from heat.

Step 6: Glaze the Shrimp

• While shrimp is still hot, drizzle or toss with warm honey sauce.
• Serve immediately for maximum crispiness.

Notes

• For extra crispiness: Double-dredge shrimp by repeating the flour-egg-flour process.
• Want it spicier? Increase red pepper flakes or use ghost pepper powder.
• Milder version? Reduce cayenne and opt for a milder hot sauce.
• Storage tip: Keep sauce separate and drizzle just before serving to maintain crunch.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSodium: 900mgSugar: 25g

Keyword crispy fried shrimp, honey glazed shrimp, hot honey shrimp, seafood recipe, southern fried shrimp, spicy shrimp recipe, sweet and spicy shrimp

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