A shrimp po boy or poor boy sandwich is a sandwich made with shrimp, lettuce, tomatoes, and mayonnaise on French bread. They are popular in the South, especially in Louisiana and Mississippi. The shrimp po boy is a variation of the traditional sandwich from New Orleans, which was created as a way to use leftovers from other foods.
The Outer Banks is known for its abundance of amazing seafood, with shrimp being one of the most popular seafood options available. That being said, the North Carolina Shrimp Po Boy Sandwich is on par with the best you can find, anywhere!
The main ingredients needed to make a shrimp po boy are bread, shrimp, and mayonnaise. Additional ingredients can include tomato slices or pickles if desired.
✅ Here is a simple shrimp po boy sandwich recipe.
History of the Shrimp Po’ Boy Sandwich
The shrimp po boy sandwich is a popular fried seafood sandwich that originated in New Orleans, Louisiana. It’s believed to have been created sometime around 1929 by a woman named Marie LePrete. She was a caterer who sold her shrimp po boys at the original location of Domilise’s Po Boy Shop on Frenchmen Street.
How to prepare
The shrimp po boy sandwich is prepared by taking a baguette, slicing it in half, and spreading mayonnaise over both sides. Shrimp are fried to golden brown and piled onto the bread. Next comes lettuce, tomato slices, and pickle slices.
Ingredients
The shrimp po boy sandwich is made from shrimp, lettuce, tomato slices, and pickles on a baguette. Use French or Italian bread. The shrimp are fried until golden brown and crispy.
Shrimp substitute
The shrimp po boy sandwich can be made with other types of seafood. Crab cakes, oysters, and catfish are popular substitutes. The sandwich may also be served with fried fish fillets or scallops instead of breaded and fried shrimp.
Fried chicken, roast beef, or pulled pork can also be used. What to drink A shrimp po boy sandwich is often served with a side of iced tea or lemonade. Serve with beer, wine, or other alcoholic beverages.
Side dishes
The shrimp po boy sandwich is served with French fries, coleslaw, or potato chips.
FAQ
Medium to large shrimp are best for a Shrimp Po’ Boy as they provide a satisfying bite. Fresh shrimp is always a great option. You can also use frozen shrimp as long as they are fully defrosted before cooking.
Absolutely. Deep-frying gives the shrimp a deliciously crunchy texture. However, you can also pan-fry the shrimp or even bake them for a healthier option.
Remoulade sauce is a popular condiment in Louisiana and is often used in Po’ Boy sandwiches. It’s typically made with mayo, mustard, garlic, paprika, and a variety of herbs and spices. It has a tangy flavor that complements the fried shrimp well.
The beauty of a Po’ Boy Sandwich is its versatility. Try other types of seafood like oysters or catfish or with meats like roast beef or chicken. The toppings remain the same.
Traditionally, a Po’ Boy is made with a type of French bread that’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. If you can’t find New Orleans French bread, any crusty baguette or sub roll will work.
Classic sides include French fries, coleslaw, or a pickle spear. For a lighter side, you could serve it with a green salad.
Claudia Faucher is a fitness trainer and lifestyle blogger, who recently started to pursue her other passions… Southern cooking and creating recipes.
