Crispy Honey Shrimp over Rice

Crispy Honey Shrimp over Rice is a delectable Asian-inspired dish featuring lightly battered shrimp fried to golden perfection and tossed in a sticky, sweet, and slightly tangy honey glaze. Served over steamed white rice and topped with chili flakes or herbs, this dish delivers the perfect balance of texture and flavor in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re a fan of takeout-style dishes, this homemade version will impress you with its freshness and vibrant flavors. The shrimp are coated in a light, crispy crust that holds up beautifully to the glossy honey sauce. It’s quick to prepare and ideal for busy weeknights when you want something indulgent yet easy. The sweetness of the sauce, paired with subtle heat and crispy shrimp, makes this meal a crowd-pleaser every time.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Large shrimp, peeled and deveined

• Cornstarch or tempura flour (for coating)

• Eggs (for dredging)

• All-purpose flour

• Vegetable oil (for frying)

• Garlic, minced

• Honey

• Soy sauce

• Rice vinegar or lemon juice

• Red pepper flakes or chili flakes (optional, for heat)

• Cooked white rice (jasmine or long grain)

• Green onions or cilantro (for garnish)

• Salt and pepper

directions

1. Prepare the Shrimp: Pat shrimp dry. Season with salt and pepper.

2. Batter the Shrimp: Set up a dredging station with flour, beaten eggs, and cornstarch or tempura flour. Coat shrimp first in flour, then egg, and finally in cornstarch.

3. Fry the Shrimp: Heat oil in a deep pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Fry shrimp in batches until golden and crispy, about 2–3 minutes per side. Drain on a paper towel-lined plate.

4. Make the Honey Sauce: In a small saucepan, combine honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and rice vinegar. Simmer for 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened.

5. Toss to Coat: Add the crispy shrimp to a large bowl and pour the sauce over. Toss gently to coat evenly.

6. Assemble the Dish: Serve the shrimp over a bed of hot white rice. Garnish with green onions, red pepper flakes, or fresh herbs as desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Honey Shrimp: Add sriracha or gochujang to the sauce for a spicy kick.

• Honey Garlic Chicken: Swap shrimp for bite-sized chicken breast pieces.

• Baked Version: Bake the battered shrimp at 425°F (220°C) for 15–18 minutes for a lighter alternative.

• Vegetarian Option: Use crispy tofu or cauliflower florets instead of shrimp.

• Add Veggies: Serve with stir-fried broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers for added nutrition.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
For best results, reheat the shrimp in an oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness. Microwave reheating is convenient but may soften the coating.
Rice can be reheated in the microwave with a splash of water to restore texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, thaw and pat them dry thoroughly before battering to ensure the coating sticks.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free flour and tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the sauce can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

How do I keep the shrimp crispy?

Toss the shrimp in the sauce just before serving to preserve their crunch.

Can I air fry the shrimp?

Yes, air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway, for a crispier and lighter option.

What type of honey is best?

Use mild, light-colored honey for balanced sweetness that doesn’t overpower the other flavors.

Can I double the sauce?

Absolutely. If you prefer extra sauce for drizzling on rice, double the sauce ingredients.

What oil is best for frying?

Use a neutral, high-heat oil like canola or vegetable oil.

How spicy is this dish?

The spice level depends on the amount of chili flakes or hot sauce added—easily adjustable to taste.

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

Fresh or raw shrimp is ideal for this recipe. Pre-cooked shrimp may become rubbery when fried.

Conclusion

Crispy Honey Shrimp over Rice is a satisfying, quick-to-prepare dish that delivers restaurant-style results in your own kitchen. With golden shrimp, a glossy honey-garlic glaze, and fluffy white rice, it hits all the right notes of sweet, savory, and crunchy. Perfect for weeknights or special dinners, it’s a recipe you’ll find yourself returning to again and again.

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