Beyond Biscuits: 5 Unexpected Ways to Use Hot Honey

Hot honey is making waves in the culinary world. This blend of sweet honey and fiery chili peppers is a game-changer. And in more ways than you might think.

 

Sure, you've heard of spicy honey on buttered biscuits and with fried chicken and waffles. Maybe even on pizza, depending on what part of the world you're in. But the uses for this unique condiment go far beyond that. Hot honey can add a sweet heat to a wide variety of dishes and concoctions that you never even knew needed it. And trust us, once you add hot honey, there's no turning back. Its ability to transform the ordinary into the extraordinary is...well...extraordinary!

 

 

In this article, we'll explore 5 unexpected ways to use hot honey. From grilled meats to cocktails and charcuterie boards, you'll discover how this spicy-sweet condiment can elevate your cooking. Whether you're an aspiring home cook or a seasoned chef, get ready to embark on a culinary adventure. Let's go beyond the biscuits and uncover the delicious potential of hot honey.

 

What Is Hot Honey?

For those of you who are new here, we may as well give you a quick rundown of our favorite sweet and spicy condiment before we dive into some SERIOUSLY amazing ways to use it.

 

Hot honey is a culinary innovation that infuses the natural sweetness of honey with the spiciness of chili peppers, creating an irresistible condiment that has gained popularity on a global scale.

 

And it's no wonder why.

 

Hot honey is not only easy to make (see the following section) but the resulting combination of sweet and spicy can really just up the flavor profile of countless edible creations.

 

Whether you buy a bottle of hot honey from the market (or straight from a hot honey cultivating genius such as Savannah Bee Co. or Mike's Hot Honey) or make your own, the world of culinary applications is vast. We're here to tell you about our favorites. Here we go!

 

Hot Honey on the Grill

Picture this: a piece of perfectly grilled chicken or pork. The outside is caramelized to a sticky, savory glaze. This magic happens with the help of hot honey. Its thick sweetness binds spices to the meat, creating a mouthwatering crust.

Photo by Szabina Nyíri from Pexels

 

Hot honey is excellent for grilling meats. The sugars in the honey caramelize under heat, enhancing flavors. It's a simple but transformative technique that elevates your grilling game.

 

Grilling with hot honey is pretty straightforward. Just follow these steps:

• Prepare the Meat: Season your choice of meat as you normally would and throw it on a hot grill.
• Apply Hot Honey: Halfway through the cook time, brush the meat generously with hot honey. Flip and brush the other side.
• Grill to Perfection: Let the meat finish cooking, let it rest, and serve with an extra drizzle of hot honey if you'd like.

 

Whether you're grilling pork, chicken, beef, or fish, you're in for incredible results.

 

This technique doesn't stop with meats. Vegetables love hot honey, too! We'll get into that in a moment, though. For now, allow us to share a few of our favorite hot honey-inclusive grilling recipes:

• Grilled Hot Honey Chicken
• Juicy Grilled Pork Chops with Hot Honey
• Hot Honey Salmon Bites

 

So, next time you fire up the grill, give hot honey a try. Your taste buds will thank you for the delightful experience.

 

Want more? We've got a whole post dedicated to using hot honey on the grill. Give it a read!

 

Sweet and Spicy Veggies

Roasting vegetables is a fantastic way to bring out their natural sweetness. When you add hot honey, you elevate them to a whole new level. The combination of caramelized edges and spicy-sweet glaze creates a mouthwatering side dish that pairs perfectly with any meal.

 

Photo by Kübra Doğu from Pexels

 

Hot honey-roasted veggies are incredibly versatile. You can use a variety of vegetables, such as carrots, Brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes, or bell peppers. The process is simple and can be done in the oven or grill.

 

Here's how to make hot honey-roasted (or grilled) veggies:

• Prepare the Veggies: Chop your choice of vegetables into even pieces for consistent cooking. Toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper to coat.
• Add Hot Honey: Drizzle hot honey over the seasoned veggies, ensuring they are well coated. You can adjust the amount based on your spice preference.
• Roast or Grill: Spread the veggies on a baking sheet and roast at 425°F (220°C) for about 20-30 minutes, or until they are tender and caramelized, stirring halfway through. To grill, place the veggies in a grill basket or on skewers. Grill over medium heat for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until they are charred and cooked through.

 

The result is a deliciously sticky, sweet, and spicy dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Enjoy them as a side dish or a delightful addition to grain bowls or salads.

 

Looking for a little more guidance? Here are some of our favorite hot-honey roasted veggie recipes from the web:

• Hot Honey Roasted Carrots
• Hot Honey Roasted Brussels Sprouts
• Hot Honey Veggie Skewers 

 

Fiery Cocktails

Imagine sipping on a cocktail that perfectly balances sweet and spicy flavors. Hot honey can elevate your mixology game, adding a unique twist to classic drinks. The infusion of hot honey not only enhances the taste but also brings a delightful warmth that lingers on the palate.

 

Photo by ROMAN ODINTSOV from Pexels

 

Creating hot honey-infused cocktails is easy and fun. Here's how to incorporate hot honey into your favorite beverages:

• Choose Your Base Spirit: Start with a spirit that complements the sweetness of hot honey. Vodka, tequila, or bourbon are excellent choices.
• Mix with Hot Honey: In a shaker, combine your chosen spirit with hot honey. Adjust the amount based on your desired sweetness and spice level.
• Add Fresh Ingredients: Incorporate fresh citrus juice, herbs, or mixers like soda or tonic water to create a refreshing balance. For example, lime juice pairs beautifully with tequila and hot honey.
• Shake and Serve: Shake the mixture with ice until well chilled. Strain into a glass filled with ice and garnish with a slice of fruit or fresh herbs.

 

For specific recipes, we have a whole post dedicated to Hot Honey Cocktails! Check it out!

 

Next time you're hosting friends or simply enjoying a night in, consider crafting a hot honey-infused cocktail. The combination of sweet and spicy will surely impress your guests and elevate your cocktail experience. Cheers to deliciously unique drinks!

 

Dressing Up Salads

Elevate your salads with the sweet and spicy kick of hot honey! This versatile ingredient can transform a simple salad into a flavor-packed dish that tantalizes the taste buds.

 

Photo by Los Muertos Crew from Pexels

 

Here's how to incorporate hot honey into your salad dressings for a delightful twist:

• Base Ingredients: Start with a base of high-quality olive oil and vinegar. A combination of balsamic or apple cider vinegar works beautifully with the sweetness of hot honey. If you're going with a creamy dressing, you'll probably end up with some buttermilk or mayo in there as well.
• Add Hot Honey: Drizzle in hot honey to your dressing mixture. The amount can be adjusted based on your desired level of sweetness and spice. A good rule of thumb is to start with one tablespoon and adjust to taste.
• Mix in Flavor Enhancers: To enhance the flavor profile, consider adding Dijon mustard for a tangy kick, minced garlic for depth, or fresh herbs like basil or cilantro for a burst of freshness.
• Whisk: Combine all the ingredients in a bowl or a jar with a lid. Whisk or shake until well blended, ensuring the hot honey is fully incorporated into the dressing.
• Taste and Adjust: Always taste your dressing before serving. You can add more hot honey for sweetness, more vinegar for acidity, or even a pinch of salt to balance the flavors.

 

If you don't feel comfortable winging it, check out our post dedicated specifically to incorporating hot honey into salad dressings. We've lined up some fabulous recipes for you in there.

 

Hot honey salad dressings pair wonderfully with a variety of salads, from mixed greens to grain-based salads. The sweet and spicy notes will complement ingredients like roasted vegetables, nuts, and cheeses, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.

 

Not a salad person, per se? Many dressings can be used to marinate certain meats. Chicken is our fave, but the possibilities are endless.

 

Hot Honey Charcuterie

Charcuterie boards are more than just a collection of meats and cheeses; they're a creative canvas for flavors, textures, and colors. And hot honey can take them to a whole new level.

 

Photo by Dana Tentis from Pexels

 

Here's a quick overview of how to make the perfect charcuterie board WITH hot honey:

• Pick Your Canvas: Start with a wooden, slate, or marble board.
• Select Your Ingredients: Choose a range of cured meats, such as prosciutto and salami, and complement them with a selection of cheeses like creamy Brie and nutty gouda. Balance it all with fresh and/or dried fruits, nuts, pickles, and a condiment or two. Our favorite? HOT HONEY!
• Assemble: Arrange larger items like cheeses and cured meats first, filling the gaps with fruits and nuts. Place small bowls throughout containing pickles and condiments, like HOT HONEY!
• Enjoy: Hot honey shines when drizzled over rich cheeses or paired with savory meats. To create a perfect bite, layer a thin slice of meat, a piece of cheese, and a generous drizzle of hot honey for a burst of flavor.

 

With careful curation and hot honey as a star ingredient, your charcuterie board will undoubtedly impress and tantalize your guests. If you want more, be sure to read our Ultimate Guide to Creating the Perfect Charcuterie Board with Hot Honey Drizzles.

Selecting the Right Hot Honey For the Job

When it comes to enhancing your culinary creations with hot honey, selecting the right type can make all the difference. Each application—cocktails, salads, grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or charcuterie—benefits from a specific flavor profile and heat level.

Photo by Pixabay from Pexels

 

Whether you're making your own or purchasing a hot honey product from your favorite artisan, here are some things to consider:

• Grilled Meats: For grilled meats, a robust honey with a stronger heat profile can enhance the smoky flavors. Look for honey infused with chipotle or habanero peppers, which will add depth and a spicy kick to your marinades or glazes, making your grilled dishes unforgettable.
• Roasted Vegetables: When drizzling hot honey over roasted vegetables, choose a honey that has a rich, caramel-like sweetness. A honey infused with smoked peppers can complement the earthy flavors of vegetables like carrots or Brussels sprouts, creating a delightful contrast.
• Cocktails: For cocktails, opt for a floral honey with a mild to medium heat. This allows the sweetness to shine through without overpowering the other ingredients. A honey infused with jalapeños or Fresno peppers can add a delightful kick that complements spirits like tequila or bourbon.
• Salad Dressings: When crafting vinaigrettes, a lighter honey with a balanced sweetness works best. Consider using a honey infused with milder peppers, such as banana peppers, to enhance the dressing without overwhelming the fresh greens. This will create a harmonious blend of flavors that elevates your salads.
• Charcuterie Boards: For charcuterie, a versatile hot honey that balances sweetness and spice is ideal. A honey infused with a mix of peppers, such as a blend of sweet and spicy varieties, will pair beautifully with a range of cheeses and cured meats, enhancing the overall flavor experience.

 

By selecting the right hot honey for each dish, you can elevate your culinary creations and impress your guests with the perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors. Experiment with different types of hot honey to discover your favorites and enjoy the versatility this delightful condiment brings to your kitchen.

 

Conclusion

Embrace the sweet and spicy world of hot honey, unlocking a universe of bold flavors. Your culinary creativity will skyrocket as you explore these unexpected applications.

 

Remember, this delightful condiment isn't confined to biscuits. It adds excitement to a wide range of dishes, from savory to sweet, transforming even the simplest meal into an extraordinary experience.

 

Let hot honey inspire your kitchen adventures, urging you to experiment and innovate. As you enhance your culinary skills, relish the journey of discovery and the joy of crafting delicious recipes your own way.