New Orleans Shrimp Po’Boy Recipe

A po’boy is a traditional Louisiana sandwich made with a French bread roll and various fillings, such as fried seafood, roast beef, or other meats. This iconic creation stuffed a French bread roll with different fillings such as fried seafood, roast beef, or grilled sausages. The po’boy got its start in New Orleans as a way to feed striking streetcar workers during a labor strike. As a result, the name “poor boy” was shortened to “po’boy.” Its crunchy, flavorful components and generous portions pay homage to Louisiana’s vibrant culinary culture and working-class spirit, making it a culinary treasure that resonates with locals and visitors looking for authentic Southern cuisine.

Here’s a basic recipe for a shrimp po’boy:

Ingredients

For the Fried Shrimp:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 cup buttermilk
• Vegetable oil for frying

For the Po’ Boy:

• French bread rolls (baguette-style)
• Lettuce leaves
• Sliced tomatoes
• Sliced pickles
• Mayonnaise
• Hot sauce (optional)
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

Frying the Shrimp:

1. Combine flour, Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper in a shallow bowl.
2. Allow the excess buttermilk to drip off the peeled and deveined shrimp.
3. Coat the shrimp in the seasoned flour mixture, gently pressing to adhere.
4. Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep skillet or fryer.
5. Carefully place the shrimp in the hot oil, frying for 2 to 3 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked. Fry in batches if necessary.
6. Use a slotted spoon to transfer fried shrimp to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.

Assembling the Po’ Boy:

7. Horizontally cut the French bread rolls, leaving them slightly connected.
8. Spread mayonnaise on both sides of the bread.
9. Layer the bottom half of the roll with lettuce, sliced tomatoes, and pickles.
10. Arrange the fried shrimp on top of the vegetables.
11. If desired, drizzle with hot sauce.
12. Finish by placing the top half of the roll.

Serving the Po’ Boy:

13. Present the shrimp po’ boy while the shrimp are crispy and warm.
14. Accompany with lemon wedges for squeezing over the shrimp.
15. The po’boy can also be served alongside coleslaw, potato salad, or French fries.

A shrimp po’ boy is a delicious and satisfying sandwich that captures the flavors of Louisiana cuisine. Feel free to customize it with other fillings like roast beef, fried oysters, or other seafood. Enjoy your homemade po’boy!