Shrimp Po' Boys Recipe

Shrimp: Peeled and deveined, these are the star of the sandwich, providing a succulent and tender bite.

All-purpose flour: Used to create a crispy coating for the shrimp.

Cornmeal: Adds extra crunch to the shrimp's coating.

Cajun seasoning: A blend of spices that gives the shrimp a distinctive, spicy flavor.

Buttermilk: Helps the coating adhere to the shrimp and adds a tangy flavor.

French rolls: Soft and airy, perfect for holding all the delicious fillings.

Lettuce: Adds a fresh, crisp texture to the sandwich.

Tomato: Sliced for a juicy, refreshing contrast to the fried shrimp.

Mayonnaise: Forms the base of the zesty sauce.

Hot sauce: Adds heat and flavor to the sauce.

Pickle relish: Provides a tangy, slightly sweet element to the sauce.

When frying the shrimp, ensure the oil is at the right temperature, around 350°F. If the oil is too hot, the shrimp will burn on the outside before cooking through. If it's too cool, the shrimp will absorb too much oil and become greasy. Use a thermometer to maintain the correct temperature for perfectly crispy shrimp.

• shrimp - Substitute with oyster mushrooms: Oyster mushrooms have a similar texture and can absorb flavors well, making them a good vegetarian alternative.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with rice flour: Rice flour is a gluten-free option that provides a similar crispy texture when frying.

• cornmeal - Substitute with panko breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs offer a light and crispy coating, similar to cornmeal.

• cajun seasoning - Substitute with old bay seasoning: Old Bay seasoning has a similar flavor profile with a mix of spices that can mimic Cajun seasoning.

• buttermilk - Substitute with plain yogurt: Plain yogurt can provide the same tangy flavor and tenderizing effect as buttermilk.

• french rolls - Substitute with ciabatta rolls: Ciabatta rolls have a similar texture and can hold up well to the fillings.

• shredded lettuce - Substitute with shredded cabbage: Shredded cabbage provides a similar crunch and can withstand the dressing without wilting.

• tomato - Substitute with roasted red peppers: Roasted red peppers offer a sweet and smoky flavor that complements the other ingredients.

• mayonnaise - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt is a healthier alternative that provides a creamy texture and tangy flavor.

• hot sauce - Substitute with sriracha: Sriracha offers a similar level of heat and a slightly different but complementary flavor.

• pickle relish - Substitute with chopped dill pickles: Chopped dill pickles provide the same tangy and crunchy element as pickle relish.

• Allow the shrimp to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the breading soggy.
• Store the fried shrimp separately from the french rolls and vegetables to maintain their crispiness and freshness.
• Place the cooled shrimp in an airtight container lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• For the sauce, transfer it to a small, airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to a week.
• To freeze the shrimp, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• When ready to use, reheat the shrimp in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through and crispy.
• Assemble the shrimp po' boys just before serving to ensure the rolls remain fresh and the shrimp stay crispy.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the french rolls on a baking sheet and warm them for about 5-7 minutes until they are crispy on the outside.
• While the rolls are warming, heat a skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of olive oil. Add the leftover shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side until they are heated through and crispy again.
• Alternatively, you can reheat the shrimp in an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and cook the shrimp for 3-4 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even heating.
• For the sauce, you can simply let it come to room temperature or give it a quick stir to ensure it's well-mixed before spreading it on the rolls.
• Reassemble your Shrimp Po' Boys by spreading the sauce on the warmed rolls, then adding the lettuce, tomato, and reheated shrimp. Enjoy your revitalized sandwich!

• Mixing bowl: To combine the flour, cornmeal, and cajun seasoning.

• Frying pan: To heat the oil and fry the shrimp until golden brown.

• Small bowl: To mix the mayonnaise, hot sauce, and pickle relish to make the sauce.

• Tongs: To handle the shrimp while frying and assembling the sandwich.

• Measuring cups: To measure the flour, cornmeal, buttermilk, and mayonnaise.

• Measuring spoons: To measure the cajun seasoning, hot sauce, and pickle relish.

• Knife: To slice the tomato.

• Cutting board: To provide a surface for slicing the tomato.

• Paper towels: To drain the fried shrimp and remove excess oil.

• Plate: To hold the fried shrimp before assembling the sandwiches.

• Spatula: To spread the sauce on the rolls.

• Serving platter: To present the assembled shrimp po' boys.

Prep ingredients ahead: Peel and devein shrimp in advance to save time during cooking.

Use pre-made sauce: Substitute the homemade mayonnaise mixture with a store-bought version to cut down on prep time.

Preheat oil: Start heating the oil while you dredge the shrimp to streamline the cooking process.

Assemble efficiently: Lay out all sandwich components (lettuce, tomato, rolls) before frying the shrimp for quick assembly.