Crispy Honey-Glazed Shrimp Recipe: Sweet & Savory Delight

Are you craving a dish that’s both crispy and sweet with just the right touch of savory flavor? If so, Crispy Honey-Glazed Shrimp is the perfect recipe for you. This dish combines the satisfying crunch of perfectly fried shrimp with a luscious honey glaze that is both sweet and tangy. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, preparing a quick weeknight meal, or just indulging in a treat for yourself, this dish will impress your taste buds and your guests.

Why You’ll Love Crispy Honey-Glazed Shrimp

Crispy Honey-Glazed Shrimp is a dish that hits all the right notes: crispy, sweet, savory, and spicy (if you like a bit of heat!). The crunchy exterior of the shrimp pairs perfectly with the smooth and sticky glaze, making every bite a mouthwatering experience. Plus, it’s easy to make, and you can have it ready in under 30 minutes!

This recipe can also be customized to your liking. If you prefer a milder version, you can omit the red pepper flakes. If you’re a fan of bold flavors, feel free to add more. The honey glaze is flexible and can be adjusted to your preferred sweetness level.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Crispy Honey-Glazed Shrimp

This simple yet flavorful dish requires just a handful of ingredients. Let’s break down what you need to make Crispy Honey-Glazed Shrimp:

For the Shrimp:

• 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined): Opt for large shrimp for a substantial bite and a better balance of crunch and tenderness.
• ½ tsp salt: Seasoning is essential to bring out the natural flavors of the shrimp.
• ½ tsp black pepper: Adds a subtle heat that complements the honey’s sweetness.
• ½ tsp garlic powder: Infuses the shrimp with a savory, aromatic flavor.
• ½ cup cornstarch: This gives the shrimp a crispy coating when fried.
• 2 large eggs (beaten): The egg wash helps the breadcrumbs stick to the shrimp, ensuring a crispy exterior.
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs: Panko gives the shrimp an extra crispy crunch.
• Vegetable oil (for frying): Choose a neutral oil with a high smoke point for frying, such as vegetable oil or canola oil.

For the Honey Glaze:

• ¼ cup honey: The star ingredient of the glaze, bringing that natural sweetness.
• 2 tbsp soy sauce: Adds a salty, umami flavor that balances out the sweetness of the honey.
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar: Provides a subtle tanginess that enhances the glaze.
• 1 tsp sesame oil: A fragrant oil that adds depth and complexity to the glaze.
• 2 garlic cloves (minced): Garlic brings an earthy richness to the glaze, enhancing the savory flavors.
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional): For a little kick, adding a touch of spice.
• 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water: This cornstarch slurry will thicken the glaze, giving it a sticky, coating consistency.

For Garnish:

• 1 tbsp sesame seeds: Adds a nutty flavor and extra crunch.
• 2 green onions (sliced): For a fresh, crisp contrast to the sweet glaze and to brighten the dish visually.

How to Make Crispy Honey-Glazed Shrimp

Let’s walk through the steps to make this mouthwatering dish. It’s simple, quick, and absolutely delicious!

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

First, you want to pat dry your shrimp using paper towels. This step is crucial because excess moisture can interfere with the coating process. After drying, season the shrimp with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. These basic seasonings ensure that the shrimp itself has fantastic flavor before it’s coated and fried.

Next, dredge the shrimp. Start by coating the shrimp in cornstarch, then dip them into beaten eggs, and finally coat them with panko breadcrumbs. The cornstarch helps create a crispier crust, while the panko breadcrumbs provide that irresistible crunch. Be sure to coat the shrimp evenly on all sides.

Step 2: Fry the Shrimp

In a deep pan or skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. It’s important to make sure the oil is hot enough before you fry the shrimp to ensure they crisp up nicely. You can check the oil temperature by dropping a small amount of panko into the pan—if it sizzles immediately, the oil is ready.

Fry the shrimp in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry each side for about 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Remove the shrimp and let them drain on a paper towel-lined plate to remove any excess oil.

Step 3: Make the Honey Glaze

While the shrimp are frying, it’s time to make the sweet and savory honey glaze. In a small saucepan, combine the honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and minced garlic. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally to combine the ingredients.

Once the sauce is simmering, stir in the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water). This will thicken the sauce and give it a syrupy consistency that will coat the shrimp perfectly. Let the glaze simmer for about 2-3 minutes or until it thickens to your desired consistency. For an extra kick, add red pepper flakes to the sauce. This will balance the sweetness with a bit of heat, creating a mouthwatering contrast.

Step 4: Coat the Shrimp in the Glaze

Once the shrimp are fried, toss them in the honey glaze. Use a large bowl to gently coat the shrimp in the glaze, ensuring each shrimp is well covered. The honey glaze will add a beautiful, glossy finish to the shrimp.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

To serve, transfer the honey-glazed shrimp to a plate. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and garnish with sliced green onions for an added crunch and fresh burst of flavor. Serve the shrimp on its own or over a bed of steamed rice for a complete meal.

Tips for Perfecting Crispy Honey-Glazed Shrimp

• Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to get that perfect crispy texture.
• If you prefer a sweeter glaze, you can adjust the amount of honey in the sauce to your liking.
• For an extra kick of heat, increase the red pepper flakes in the sauce or drizzle a little extra sriracha on the finished shrimp.
• If you’re short on time, you can skip the cornstarch coating and just coat the shrimp in egg and panko breadcrumbs, though the texture won’t be as crispy.

FAQs About Crispy Honey-Glazed Shrimp

1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before seasoning and coating. This step is crucial to ensure the batter sticks.

2. Can I bake the shrimp instead of frying them?
Yes, you can bake the shrimp at 400°F for about 10-12 minutes or until golden brown. Spray the shrimp with cooking spray to help them crisp up in the oven.

3. Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the honey glaze in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just reheat it on the stove before tossing with the shrimp.

4. Can I use a different type of oil for frying?
Yes, you can use canola oil, peanut oil, or sunflower oil for frying. These oils have high smoke points, making them perfect for frying.

5. How spicy is the honey glaze?
The level of spice depends on how much red pepper flakes you add. If you prefer mild, use less or skip them altogether. If you like it spicier, feel free to add extra.

Conclusion: A Crispy, Sweet, and Savory Delight

Crispy Honey-Glazed Shrimp is a dish that combines crispy fried shrimp with a sweet and savory glaze, making it the perfect appetizer or main course. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, this dish will surely satisfy your cravings. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a restaurant-quality dish right in your kitchen.

Enjoy the balance of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors with every bite of these crispy shrimp. Serve them up with rice or a fresh salad, and you’ll have a meal that’s as delicious as it is visually stunning.

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