Description
Crispy fried shrimp tossed in a spicy and sweet hot honey glaze, combining smoky seasoning with a perfectly crunchy coating for a deliciously addictive appetizer or main dish.
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 the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, then season them evenly with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to enhance the flavor.
- Prepare dredging stations: Set up three separate bowls: one with the all-purpose flour, another with the buttermilk, and the third with panko breadcrumbs for coating the shrimp.
- Coat the shrimp: Dredge each shrimp first in the flour to create a dry base, then dip it into the buttermilk to help the breadcrumbs stick. Finally, coat the shrimp thoroughly with panko breadcrumbs and place them on a tray ready for frying.
- Heat oil for frying: Pour vegetable oil into a deep skillet or pot and heat it to 350°F (175°C), ensuring it’s hot enough to fry the shrimp to a crisp without absorbing too much oil.
- Fry the shrimp: Fry the shrimp in batches for about 2-3 minutes each, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan, then drain the fried shrimp on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Make the hot honey glaze: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine honey, hot sauce, butter, red pepper flakes (if using), and apple cider vinegar. Stir continuously until the butter is melted and the mixture is smooth. Remove from heat to prevent burning.
- Toss and serve: Drizzle the warm hot honey glaze over the fried shrimp or serve it alongside as a dipping sauce to enjoy the balance of spicy, sweet, and savory flavors.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of hot sauce and red pepper flakes in the glaze to control the heat level according to your preference.
- Ensure the oil temperature remains consistent at 350°F for perfect crispiness; use a thermometer for accuracy.
- Use fresh shrimp for the best texture, and make sure to dry them thoroughly before seasoning to avoid sogginess.
- If you want a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour and panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives.
- You can prepare the hot honey glaze in advance and gently warm it before serving.
