Description
Crispy and spicy Hot Honey Fried Shrimp features perfectly seasoned shrimp coated in panko breadcrumbs, fried until golden, and finished with a sticky, sweet, and spicy honey glaze. This quick and flavorful dish makes a delicious appetizer or main course that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp and Coating
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Hot Honey Glaze
- â…“ cup honey
- 2 tablespoons hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
Instructions
- Season the Shrimp: Pat shrimp dry with paper towels. Season evenly with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to enhance the natural flavors.
- Prepare Dredging Stations: Set up three separate bowls: one with all-purpose flour, one with buttermilk, and one with panko breadcrumbs. This layering ensures a light, crispy coating.
- Coat the Shrimp: Dredge each shrimp first in the flour, then dip into the buttermilk, and finally coat thoroughly with panko breadcrumbs. Place the coated shrimp on a tray to keep ready for frying.
- Heat the Oil: In a deep skillet or pot, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Proper oil temperature is crucial for achieving a crispy outside without greasy shrimp.
- Fry the Shrimp: Fry shrimp in batches for 2-3 minutes until the coating is golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain oil temperature. Drain the cooked shrimp on paper towels.
- Make the Hot Honey Glaze: In a small saucepan, combine honey, hot sauce, butter, red pepper flakes (if using), and apple cider vinegar. Simmer over medium heat, stirring frequently until the butter melts and ingredients are well blended. Remove from heat.
- Serve: Either drizzle the hot honey glaze over the fried shrimp or serve it on the side as a dipping sauce. Enjoy immediately for the crispest texture and best flavor.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of hot sauce and red pepper flakes to control the spice level.
- Use fresh shrimp for the best taste and texture.
- Keep the oil temperature steady to prevent greasy coating.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour and panko with gluten-free alternatives.
- Serve with lemon wedges or a crisp salad for a balanced meal.
