Shrimp Po' Boys Recipe

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

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

Cornmeal: Adds extra crunch to the shrimp coating.

Cajun seasoning: A blend of spices that gives the shrimp a flavorful, spicy kick.

Buttermilk: Helps tenderize the shrimp and allows the coating to adhere better.

French rolls: Split and toasted, these rolls hold all the delicious components of the sandwich.

Lettuce: Shredded for a fresh, crisp layer in the sandwich.

Tomato: Sliced to add juiciness and freshness.

Mayonnaise: Forms the base of the zesty sauce.

Hot sauce: Mixed with mayonnaise to create a spicy, tangy 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 cook too quickly on the outside and remain undercooked inside. If the oil is too cool, the shrimp will absorb too much oil and become greasy. Use a thermometer to maintain the correct temperature for perfectly crispy and golden 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 provides a similar coating and is a good gluten-free option.

• cornmeal - Substitute with panko breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs offer a similar crunch and can be used if cornmeal is unavailable.

• cajun seasoning - Substitute with Old Bay seasoning: Old Bay seasoning has a similar flavor profile and can be used as an alternative.

• buttermilk - Substitute with plain yogurt: Plain yogurt can mimic the tanginess and consistency of 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 be used as a substitute.

• tomato - Substitute with roasted red peppers: Roasted red peppers offer a similar sweetness and can be used if tomatoes are not available.

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

• hot sauce - Substitute with sriracha: Sriracha has a similar heat level and can be used as a substitute for hot sauce.

• Allow the shrimp to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the shrimp soggy.
• Place the shrimp in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. If using a bag, try to remove as much air as possible to maintain freshness.
• Store the shrimp in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For longer storage, consider freezing.
• To freeze, lay the shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet and place in the freezer. Once frozen, transfer the shrimp to a resealable plastic bag or airtight container. This prevents the shrimp from sticking together.
• Label the container or bag with the date to keep track of freshness.
• When ready to use, thaw the shrimp in the refrigerator overnight. Avoid thawing at room temperature to prevent bacterial growth.
• For the french rolls, store them in a bread box or a resealable bag at room temperature. They are best consumed within 2 days.
• If freezing the french rolls, wrap them tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap, then place in a resealable plastic bag. Freeze for up to 3 months.
• To reheat the shrimp, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. This helps maintain their crispy texture.
• For the french rolls, thaw at room temperature if frozen, then toast in the oven or on a skillet to bring back their crispiness.
• Store the mayonnaise and hot sauce mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Stir well before using.
• Keep lettuce and tomato fresh by storing them in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator. Use within a few days for the best quality.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until they are crispy and warmed through.
• For a quicker method, use an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
• If you prefer using a stovetop, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil and reheat the shrimp for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally until they are hot and crispy.
• To reheat the french rolls, wrap them in aluminum foil and place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until they are warm and slightly crispy.
• For the lettuce and tomato, it's best to use fresh ones to maintain their crispness and flavor. Simply slice new tomato and shred fresh lettuce.
• Reassemble the Shrimp Po' Boys by spreading the sauce on the warmed french rolls, adding the reheated shrimp, and topping with fresh lettuce and tomato.

• Mixing bowl: Use this to combine the flour, cornmeal, and cajun seasoning.

• Mixing bowl: Use this to hold the buttermilk for dipping the shrimp.

• Frying pan: Heat oil in this to fry the shrimp until golden brown.

• Tongs: Use these to handle the shrimp while frying to avoid burns.

• Spatula: Helpful for flipping the shrimp in the frying pan.

• Measuring cups: Use these to measure out the flour, cornmeal, and buttermilk accurately.

• Measuring spoons: Use these to measure the cajun seasoning and hot sauce.

• Knife: Use this to slice the tomato.

• Cutting board: Use this as a surface to slice the tomato.

• Toaster or oven: Use this to toast the French rolls.

• Small bowl: Use this to mix the mayonnaise and hot sauce for the sauce.

• Spoon: Use this to spread the sauce on the rolls.

• Paper towels: Use these to drain the fried shrimp and remove excess oil.

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

Use pre-made sauce: Substitute homemade sauce with store-bought mayonnaise mixed with hot sauce.

Pre-toast rolls: Toast the french rolls ahead of time and keep them warm in the oven.

Batch fry shrimp: Fry the shrimp in batches to ensure even cooking and save time.

Pre-slice vegetables: Slice the tomato and shred the lettuce before starting to cook.