Ultra-Crispy Hot Honey Fried Shrimp

A sizzling pan of golden-brown shrimp, exuding an irresistible crunch, fills the air with savory goodness. Ultra-Crispy Hot Honey Fried Shrimp is a delightful combination of crunchy texture and sweet heat that takes around 30 minutes to prepare. This recipe works perfectly because the buttermilk marinade tenderizes the shrimp while creating a light batter that crisps beautifully in hot oil.

This recipe is perfect for seafood lovers looking for a fun and flavorful dish to serve at gatherings or a cozy family dinner. Enjoy them fresh and hot, or prepare them ahead of time for an easy weeknight treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The shrimp turn out extra crispy thanks to a clever combination of flour and cornstarch.
• The fusion of sweet honey and spicy chili flakes creates a mouthwatering glaze.
• Buttermilk tenderizes the shrimp for a juicy interior.
• It’s a quick dish that can be prepped in about 30 minutes.

What You’ll Need

Get ready to gather these delicious ingredients:

For the Shrimp

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled, deveined, tails removed
• 0.5 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 0.25 cup cornstarch
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 0.5 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 2 cups neutral frying oil (canola, vegetable, or peanut oil)

For the Hot Honey Glaze

• 0.5 cup honey
• 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
• 1 tsp red chili flakes
• 1 tbsp hot sauce
• 1 tbsp oil for sautéing garlic

For a spicier glaze, adjust the hot sauce to taste.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Buttermilk: use regular milk with lemon juice
• Large shrimp: medium shrimp will also work
• Neutral oil: use any high-smoke-point oil
• Garlic: garlic powder can replace fresh garlic

How to Make It

Follow these steps for delicious hot honey fried shrimp:

Marinate

Combine the shrimp and buttermilk in a bowl, ensuring the shrimp are fully covered. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes to soak up the flavor and moisture.

Prepare the Coating

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, kosher salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. This blend will give the shrimp a superb crunch.

Heat the Oil

Pour the neutral oil into a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Allow the oil to reach 350°F (175°C) for optimal frying.

Coat the Shrimp

Remove the shrimp from the buttermilk and shake off the excess. Dredge each shrimp in the prepared flour mixture, pressing lightly to adhere.

Fry the Shrimp

Carefully place the coated shrimp in the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 2-3 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked shrimp to a paper towel-lined plate.

Make the Glaze

In a small saucepan over medium heat, add the 1 tbsp of oil and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add the honey, red chili flakes, and hot sauce, stirring to combine. Cook for an additional minute until slightly thickened.

Glaze the Shrimp

Toss the fried shrimp in the hot honey glaze until fully coated. Serve immediately to enjoy the crunch and flavor.

How to Store It

Fridge: up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: no, shrimp won’t retain their texture.
Reheat: in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.

Tips for Best Results

• Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to avoid greasy shrimp.
• Don’t skip the marinating step; it enhances flavor and moisture.
• Use a thermometer for precise frying temperatures.
• For extra heat, increase the amount of red chili flakes.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a fresh salad for a light meal.
• Serve with dipping sauces like ranch or tahini for added flavor.
• Great for game day parties or casual gatherings.