The Shrimp Po Boy is a beloved Southern sandwich that combines crispy fried shrimp, fresh veggies, and a flavorful sauce. Originating in Louisiana, this dish carries a rich history rooted in Creole and Cajun cultures. “Po Boy” is short for “Poor Boy,” a term used for a cheap and satisfying meal, making it a staple in Louisiana diners. The po boy’s irresistible crunch, fresh fillings, and creamy sauce have earned it a place as a must-try sandwich for seafood lovers.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to make the perfect shrimp po boy:
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Shrimp:
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1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Batter and Coating:
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1 cup all-purpose flour
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1/2 cup cornmeal
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1 tbsp paprika
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
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1/2 tsp salt
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1/2 tsp black pepper
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2 eggs, beaten
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1/2 cup buttermilk
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For the Sandwich:
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4 French baguettes or hoagie rolls
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1 cup shredded lettuce
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1 tomato, sliced
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1/4 cup pickles, sliced
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1/4 cup mayonnaise
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1 tbsp hot sauce (optional)
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1 tbsp lemon juice
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Fresh parsley for garnish
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Possible Substitutions:
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and cornmeal for the batter.
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Dairy-Free: Substitute buttermilk with a non-dairy milk like almond or soy milk.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
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Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels.
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Season with salt and pepper, then set aside.
2. Make the Coating:
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In one bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne, salt, and black pepper.
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In another bowl, whisk together eggs and buttermilk.
3. Coat the Shrimp:
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Dip each shrimp first in the egg mixture, then dredge in the flour mixture, pressing lightly to coat evenly.
4. Fry the Shrimp:
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Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
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Once the oil is hot (around 350°F), fry the shrimp in batches for about 2-3 minutes per side or until golden and crispy.
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Transfer the shrimp to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
5. Prepare the Po Boy:
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Slice the French baguettes or rolls in half lengthwise, but not all the way through.
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Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise on each side of the bread. For extra heat, mix hot sauce and lemon juice into the mayo.
6. Assemble the Sandwich:
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Layer the lettuce, tomato slices, pickles, and fried shrimp on one side of the bread.
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Garnish with fresh parsley.
7. Serve:
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Serve immediately while the shrimp is crispy, with your favorite side dish!
Tips to Avoid Common Mistakes:
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Overcrowding the pan: Fry the shrimp in batches to avoid sogginess and ensure even cooking.
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Oil temperature: Make sure the oil is hot enough. If it’s too cool, the shrimp will absorb too much oil and become greasy.
Pro Tips and Cooking Techniques
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Crispy Shrimp: For extra crunch, double dip the shrimp in the batter.
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Flavor Boost: Add a sprinkle of Cajun seasoning to the shrimp for an extra kick.
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Fried Shrimp Texture: Don’t skip the rest step after frying – letting the shrimp rest on paper towels helps them stay crispy.
Variations and Customizations
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Vegetarian: Use crispy fried tofu or portobello mushrooms instead of shrimp.
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and a flour alternative for the batter.
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Low-Carb: Serve the shrimp with lettuce wraps or in a keto-friendly bun.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your shrimp po boy with a side of crispy fries, coleslaw, or a tangy pickle. A cold, refreshing iced tea or a beer would be perfect beverages to complement the sandwich.
Nutritional Information
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Calories per serving: ~500 kcal
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Protein: 35g
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Carbs: 45g
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Fat: 20g
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Fiber: 3g
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Sodium: 800mg
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on substitutions and portion sizes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make the shrimp po boy ahead of time?
A: It’s best to fry the shrimp fresh, but you can prepare the toppings and sauces in advance.
Q: How do I store leftover shrimp po boy?
A: Store the fried shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to restore crispiness.
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A: Yes, frozen shrimp works well, but make sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
Closing Thoughts
The shrimp po boy is more than just a sandwich—it’s a slice of Southern culture packed into every bite. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this recipe is sure to impress. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your fillings or sauces—there’s no wrong way to make a po boy! Try it out, share your experience, and feel free to ask any questions. Enjoy your delicious po boy!
