Description
Crispy, golden fried shrimp meet the sweet heat of hot honey in this irresistible appetizer or main dish. With a buttermilk marinade and a crunchy coating, these Hot Honey Fried Shrimp pack flavor in every bite—perfect for parties, game nights, or a spicy seafood indulgence at home.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp:
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1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on
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1 cup buttermilk (or 1 cup milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice, let sit 10 min)
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1 tsp smoked paprika
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1/2 tsp black pepper
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1/2 tsp salt
For the Coating:
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1 cup all-purpose flour
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1/2 cup cornstarch
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1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
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Salt and pepper to taste
For Frying:
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Vegetable oil for deep frying
For the Hot Honey Sauce:
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1/3 cup honey
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1 tbsp halal-friendly hot sauce
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1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
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1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
Instructions
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In a bowl, whisk together buttermilk, garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Add shrimp and marinate for at least 20 minutes.
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In a separate bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, cayenne (if using), and seasoning.
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Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C).
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Remove shrimp from marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge in the flour mixture, pressing to coat evenly.
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Fry shrimp in batches, 2–3 minutes per side, until golden and crisp. Avoid overcrowding.
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Drain shrimp on paper towels.
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In a small saucepan, gently heat honey, hot sauce, red pepper flakes, and apple cider vinegar until combined and slightly thickened.
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Drizzle hot honey sauce over fried shrimp or serve on the side.
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Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Notes
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Adjust spice level by increasing or decreasing red pepper flakes.
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For a lighter option, air-fry the coated shrimp at 400°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes.
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Great with coleslaw, rice, or on sliders.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Deep Frying
- Cuisine: American