If you’re looking for a dish that combines crispy, golden-fried shrimp with a sticky, sweet, and spicy glaze, this Honey Orange Firecracker Shrimp is exactly what you need. This easy yet impressive recipe is packed with bold flavors, a hint of citrus, and just the right amount of heat to keep things exciting. Perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or even as an appetizer for gatherings, this dish will wow your taste buds and your guests alike.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy – Ready in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
- Crispy & Flavorful – Lightly coated in seasoned cornstarch for a satisfying crunch.
- Sweet & Spicy Balance – The honey glaze with citrus and cayenne creates a mouthwatering combination.
- Great for Any Occasion – Serve it as a main course, an appetizer, or even as part of a seafood platter.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 24 jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 ¼ teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ cup canola oil
- 1 cup tupelo honey (or substitute clover honey)
- 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper, or to taste
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Mixing bowls
- Large plastic container with a lid (for coating the shrimp)
- Tongs or a slotted spoon
- Paper towels for draining
- Zester or microplane (for the orange zest)
Step-By-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
- Rinse the shrimp thoroughly under cold water and place them in a bowl of cold water. Set aside.
Step 2: Coat the Shrimp
- In a large plastic container with a tight-fitting lid, combine cornstarch, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Shake well to mix.
- Drain the shrimp and add half of them to the container. Close the lid and shake to coat the shrimp evenly.
- Remove coated shrimp to a platter and repeat with the remaining shrimp.
Step 3: Fry the Shrimp
- Heat canola oil in a large skillet over medium heat until hot and shimmering but not smoking.
- Tap off any excess cornstarch from the shrimp and pan-fry them in batches for 2 to 3 minutes per side, until they are opaque inside and crispy golden brown outside.
- Drain cooked shrimp on paper towels and continue frying the remaining shrimp.
Step 4: Make the Honey Orange Glaze
- Clean the skillet and pour in the honey. Bring it to a gentle boil over medium heat.
- Stir in orange zest, lemon juice, and cayenne pepper. Let it simmer for about a minute until it thickens slightly.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
- Arrange the crispy shrimp on a serving platter and drizzle with the honey-orange sauce to taste. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Recipe Tips & Variations
- Make It Spicier – Increase the cayenne to ½ teaspoon or add a dash of sriracha to the honey glaze.
- Air Fryer Alternative – Instead of frying, air-fry the coated shrimp at 400°F for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Swap the Protein – Try this recipe with chicken tenders or tofu for a delicious variation.
- Citrus Twist – Experiment with lime zest instead of orange for a slightly different flavor.
What to Serve with Honey Orange Firecracker Shrimp
Pair this dish with:
- Steamed jasmine rice to soak up the sauce
- Garlic butter noodles for extra indulgence
- Asian slaw or a fresh cucumber salad to balance the flavors
- A cold beer, sparkling lemonade, or white wine to complement the sweet and spicy notes
How to Store & Reheat Leftovers
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat until crispy, or use an air fryer at 350°F for 5 minutes.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the shrimp may lose their crispiness.
FAQ
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before coating them with cornstarch.
Can I bake the shrimp instead of frying?
You can! Bake at 425°F for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway. They won’t be as crispy, but they’ll still taste great.
What’s the best honey to use?
Tupelo honey is ideal for its mild and buttery flavor, but clover or wildflower honey works well too.
How do I make the glaze thicker?
Let it simmer a little longer or add a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with a teaspoon of water to thicken it up.
Final Thoughts
This Honey Orange Firecracker Shrimp is a must-try recipe for anyone who loves bold, balanced flavors with a crispy bite. Whether you’re serving it for a casual dinner or a special gathering, it’s sure to impress!
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