Hot Honey Crispy Shrimp

These Hot Honey Crispy Shrimp have quickly become a party favorite and a new brunch staple in my household. Shrimp are versatile and can be prepared and enjoyed many ways. This sweet and spicy combination has proven to be one of my favorite ways to dress them. – Scot Louie

MAKES 4 SERVINGS

Ingredients

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 teaspoons YardSpice, divided (substitution recipe below)
• 2 teaspoons CajunSpice, divided (substitution recipe below)
• 2 teaspoons WhiteSpice, divided (substitution recipe below)
• 2 teaspoons salt, divided, plus more to taste, beaten
• 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 2 cups vegetable oil
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/4 cup hot sauce
• 1/4 cup honey
• Chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley or chives for serving

Directions

Place the shrimp in a large bowl, then season with 2 teaspoons of YardSpice, 1 teaspoon of CajunSpice, 1 teaspoon of WhiteSpice, and 1 teaspoon of salt.

Pour the beaten egg over the shrimp. Mix so all the shrimp are coated in egg. Rest for 15 minutes.

In a large zip-top bag, mix the bread crumbs, cornstarch, 1 teaspoon of YardSpice, the remaining 1 teaspoon of CajunSpice, and the remaining 1 teaspoon of WhiteSpice.

Add the shrimp to the bag and shake well, until they’re all evenly coated in the bread crumb mixture. Transfer the shrimp to a wire rack or plate and let them rest 15-20 minutes longer.

In a large, deep skillet over medium heat, warm the vegetable oil until a deep-frying thermometer registers 350°F (180°C).

Working in batches, fry the shrimp for 2 minutes per side and then immediately transfer to paper towels to drain. Do not cook a moment longer or the shrimp will get rubbery.

Season immediately with a few pinches of salt.

In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, melt the butter with the remaining 1 teaspoon of YardSpice and the cayenne pepper, whisking occasionally. Add the hot sauce and honey, whisking occasionally until evenly combined and reduced to a sticky, saucy consistency, about 2–3 minutes.

Place the shrimp in a large bowl and pour the hot honey sauce over the top, tossing the shrimp gently until evenly coated. Top with parsley and serve at once.