Hot Honey Fried Shrimp

Hot Honey Fried Shrimp Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Shrimp:

1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined

1 cup buttermilk

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 cup cornstarch

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp smoked paprika

1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)

1/2 tsp salt

1/2 tsp black pepper

Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)

For the Hot Honey Sauce:

1/4 cup honey

2 tbsp hot sauce (adjust to taste)

1 tbsp unsalted butter

1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional, for extra heat)

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Instructions:

1. Prepare the Shrimp:

Rinse and pat the shrimp dry. Soak them in buttermilk for 15-20 minutes.

2. Make the Coating:

In a bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper.

3. Heat the Oil:

In a deep skillet or fryer, heat oil to 350°F (175°C).

4. Coat and Fry the Shrimp:

Remove shrimp from the buttermilk, letting the excess drip off. Coat each shrimp in the flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure even coating.

Fry in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side. Do not overcrowd the pan.

Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.

5. Prepare the Hot Honey Sauce:

In a small saucepan, combine honey, hot sauce, butter, and chili flakes. Heat on low until the butter is melted and the sauce is smooth. Stir well.

6. Toss or Drizzle:

Toss the fried shrimp in the hot honey sauce or drizzle the sauce over the shrimp, depending on your preference.

7. Serve:

Serve immediately with ranch or blue cheese dressing and a side of your choice, like fries or coleslaw.

Enjoy your crispy, spicy-sweet hot honey fried shrimp!