Cajun Shrimp Po'Boy

The Cajun Shrimp Po'Boy is a classic sandwich that hails from Louisiana, offering a delicious blend of crispy fried shrimp, zesty Cajun spices, and fresh, crunchy toppings all packed into a soft, toasted baguette. This dish is a staple of Southern cuisine, known for its bold flavors and satisfying textures. It's perfect for a casual lunch or a hearty dinner, bringing the taste of New Orleans to your table.

Ingredients:

For the Shrimp:

- 1.5 lbs (680g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined

- 1 cup buttermilk

- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional)

- 1 cup all-purpose flour

- 1 cup cornmeal

- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning

- 1 teaspoon garlic powder

- 1 teaspoon onion powder

- 1/2 teaspoon paprika

- 1/2 teaspoon salt

- Vegetable oil for frying

For the Sandwich:

- 4-6 French baguettes or hoagie rolls

- 1 cup mayonnaise

- 2 tablespoons Creole mustard (or Dijon mustard)

- 1 tablespoon lemon juice

- 1 tablespoon pickle juice (optional)

- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)

- Shredded lettuce (about 2 cups)

- Sliced tomatoes (2-3 medium tomatoes)

- Pickle slices (about 1/2 cup)

- Sliced onions (optional)

- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Shrimp:

- In a medium bowl, combine the buttermilk and hot sauce.

- Add the shrimp to the buttermilk mixture, ensuring they are fully submerged.

- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to marinate.

2. Prepare the Breading:

- In a large bowl or shallow dish, whisk together the flour, cornmeal, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and salt.

3. Bread the Shrimp:

- Remove the shrimp from the buttermilk marinade, allowing any excess to drip off.

- Dredge each shrimp in the flour-cornmeal mixture, pressing lightly to ensure an even coating.

- Place the breaded shrimp on a plate and let them rest for about 5-10 minutes.

4. Fry the Shrimp:

- In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).

- Fry the shrimp in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.

- Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.

- Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried shrimp to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

5. Prepare the Po'Boy Sauce:

- In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Creole mustard, lemon juice, pickle juice, and hot sauce.

- Adjust the seasoning to taste, adding more mustard or hot sauce if desired.

6. Assemble the Sandwiches:

- Slice the baguettes or hoagie rolls lengthwise, leaving one side intact to hold the sandwich together.

- Spread a generous amount of the Po'Boy sauce on both sides of the bread.

- Layer the bottom half of each sandwich with shredded lettuce, sliced tomatoes, pickles, and onions.

- Pile the fried shrimp on top of the vegetables.

- Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.

7. Serve:

- Serve the Cajun Shrimp Po'Boys immediately while the shrimp are still warm and crispy.

Nutritional Information (per serving, assuming 6 servings):

- Calories: Approximately 650-750 kcal

- Fat: 35-40g

 - Saturated Fat: 6-8g

- Protein: 30-35g

- Carbohydrates: 60-70g

 - Fiber: 3-4g

 - Sugar: 4-6g

Preparation Time:

- Total Time: 50-60 minutes

- Active Prep Time: 20-25 minutes

- Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes

Notes:

- Cajun Seasoning: You can adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning based on your heat preference. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount or use a less spicy blend.

- Bread Choice: For an authentic Po'Boy, use French baguettes or soft hoagie rolls with a crisp crust. The bread should be sturdy enough to hold the filling but soft inside.

- Frying Tips: Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying the shrimp to prevent them from becoming greasy. Overcrowding the pan can lower the oil temperature, so fry in batches if necessary.

- Serving Suggestions: Serve the Po'Boys with a side of fries, coleslaw, or a simple green salad. A cold glass of iced tea or a beer pairs well with this dish.

- Variations: You can add other toppings like sliced avocado, jalapeños, or a drizzle of remoulade sauce for an extra kick.

This Cajun Shrimp Po'Boy is a delightful sandwich that brings the flavors of Louisiana straight to your table. With its crispy shrimp, zesty sauce, and fresh toppings, it's a dish that's sure to satisfy your cravings for bold Southern cuisine.

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