Introduction
Prepare to ignite your taste buds with this delightful recipe for Hot Honey Fried Shrimp! This dish features succulent, plump shrimp that are marinated in creamy buttermilk, coated in a perfectly seasoned, crispy batter, and finished with a sweet and spicy drizzle of hot honey. Each bite offers a glorious crunch followed by a burst of flavors that will surely impress friends and family alike. Whether it’s a cozy gathering or a casual weeknight meal, this recipe promises to elevate your dining experience!
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
- 1/2 cup hot honey
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the peeled and deveined shrimp with buttermilk. Cover the bowl and let the shrimp marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to soak up those creamy flavors.
- While the shrimp is marinating, take another bowl and mix together the all-purpose flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This will be your go-to seasoned coating.
- In a deep skillet or fryer, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches about 350°F. You can test the oil’s readiness by dropping a small amount of the flour mixture into it; if it sizzles, you’re good to go!
- Once the shrimp has marinated, remove them from the buttermilk and allow excess liquid to drip off.
- Dredge each shrimp in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring each piece is well-coated for that perfect crunch.
- Carefully place the coated shrimp in the hot oil in batches, frying for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until they turn a beautiful golden brown and crispy.
- Using a slotted spoon, transfer the fried shrimp to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil, keeping them nice and crispy.
- Drizzle the luscious hot honey over the crispy shrimp in a large bowl, gently tossing to ensure they’re evenly coated in that sweet and spicy goodness.
- Finally, garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving to add a pop of color and freshness.
Notes or Tips
- For an extra kick, feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper in the flour mixture to match your heat preference.
- If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can easily make a substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for a few minutes to thicken.
- Serving these shrimp immediately after frying will ensure they maintain their delightful crunch!
Cooking Techniques
Frying is all about temperature control. Make sure your oil is hot enough before adding the shrimp to achieve that golden crust without soaking them in oil. Don’t overcrowd the pan—frying in smaller batches will help maintain the oil temperature and yield a superior crunch.
FAQ
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe? Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before marinating and frying.
What can I serve with the Hot Honey Fried Shrimp? These shrimp pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad, coleslaw, or even over a bed of fluffy rice for a heartier meal.
Is hot honey spicy? Hot honey has a sweet base with a hint of heat. Adjusting the amount used when drizzling on the shrimp allows you to customize the spice level.
Conclusion
Hot Honey Fried Shrimp is an irresistible dish that harmoniously combines sweet, spicy, and savory notes. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. So gather your ingredients and get ready to indulge in this delightful seafood treat that will leave everyone asking for seconds!