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SWEET CHILI SHRIMP PO-BOY

sweet chili shrimp po-boy

Introduction

Craving a sandwich that combines bold flavors, crispy textures, and the freshness of Asian-inspired ingredients? This Sweet Chili Shrimp Po Boy is the ultimate fusion dish. Inspired by the classic Louisiana Po Boy but with a modern Asian twist, this recipe delivers perfectly fried shrimp coated in a sparkling water batter, a drizzle of sweet chili sauce, and a medley of crisp veggies all tucked into buttery toasted bread. It’s the perfect comfort food for seafood lovers and fans of Asian fusion cuisine!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Asian-Inspired Flavor: The sweet chili sauce adds a tangy, spicy, and slightly sweet glaze that’s quintessential to Asian cooking.
  • Crispy Perfection: The sparkling water batter creates a light, airy crunch for shrimp that stays crispy.
  • Fresh and Colorful Veggies: Shredded lettuce, carrots, and red onions add crunch and vibrancy to every bite.
  • Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether for lunch, dinner, or a casual gathering, this Po Boy is easy to make and always a hit.

Key Ingredients

  1. Shrimp: Fresh, large shrimp are ideal for this recipe. They’re tender and sweet, making them the perfect base for frying.
  2. Sweet Chili Sauce: A staple in many Asian kitchens, this sauce adds a balance of sweetness and spice.
  3. Sparkling Water Batter: Light, bubbly sparkling water creates a crispy shrimp coating without feeling too heavy.
  4. Garlic Butter: Rich, aromatic garlic butter enhances the flavor of the toasted bread.
  5. Fresh Vegetables: Lettuce, carrots, cucumbers, and red onions provide crunch and balance to the fried shrimp.

How to Make a Sweet Chili Shrimp Po Boy

  1. Prep the Shrimp: Start with fresh shrimp and pat them dry to ensure the batter adheres well.
  2. Make the Batter: Use cold sparkling water and a mix of flour and cornstarch for a light and crispy texture.
  3. Fry the Shrimp: Fry in small batches for even cooking and a golden, crunchy coating.
  4. Toast the Bread: Slather garlic butter on your bread and toast until golden.
  5. Assemble: Layer the bread with fresh veggies, crispy shrimp, and sweet chili sauce for the ultimate fusion sandwich.

Substitutions and Variations

  • Protein: Swap shrimp with fried tofu or chicken for a delicious variation.
  • Sauce: Try sriracha mayo or hoisin sauce for a different flavor profile.
  • Bread: Use ciabatta or a brioche bun for a softer option.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the flour with a gluten-free blend and use gluten-free bread.

Tips for Success

  • Cold Batter is Key: Use chilled sparkling water to keep the batter light and crispy.
  • Oil Temperature: Maintain 350°F for evenly fried shrimp without a greasy texture.
  • Custom Spice Levels: Adjust the amount of sweet chili sauce or add pickled jalapeños for extra heat.

Conclusion

This Sweet Chili Shrimp Po Boy is a match made in fusion food heaven. Whether you’re a fan of crispy fried shrimp, crave Asian-inspired flavors, or simply love a loaded sandwich, this recipe hits all the right notes. It’s perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to something extra special.

Ready to try this Asian fusion twist on a classic Po Boy? Whip it up and share your creations with us! Tag your photos with #SweetChiliPoBoy and follow for more fusion recipe ideas.

Don’t forget to pin this recipe and save it for your next seafood craving!

For more delicious recipes like this one, visit Foodsofli.com. Don’t forget to share your creations with me on social media using #Foodsofli and make sure to tag me @foods_ofli so that I can see your masterpiece.

Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 15 mins
Rest Time 5 mins
Total Time 35 mins
Cooking Method:
Cuisine: , ,
Courses: ,
Difficulty: Beginner
Servings: 4
Calories: 450
Best Season: Suitable throughout the year
Description

This Sweet Chili Shrimp Po Boy takes a classic Louisiana favorite and gives it an irresistible twist with crispy, golden-fried shrimp, a vibrant medley of fresh vegetables, and a drizzle of sweet chili sauce.

Ingredients
    For Garlic Butter:
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tsp fresh parsley
    • For Sweet Chili Shrimp:
  • 1 lb shrimp
  • 1 cup flour
  • 1/2 cup corn starch
  • 1 1/2 cup sparkling water
  • oil for frying
  • 2 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
    • For Po-Boy Assembly:
  • 2 medium loafs French baguette
  • 1 cup shredded lettuce
  • 1/4 cup pickled carrots
  • 1/2 cup sliced cucumbers
  • 1/4 cup sliced red onions
    • For Tartar Sauce (optional):
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tbsp pickle relish
  • 1 tsp lemon juice
Instructions
  1. 1
    Prepare Garlic Butter
    • In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the butter with garlic and parsley. Stir occasionally until garlic is softened. Set aside.
  2. 2
    Prepare the Shrimp
    • In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, salt, and pepper.
    • Slowly pour in the sparkling water, stirring gently until the batter is smooth. Be careful not to overmix; a few small lumps are okay. The batter should be slightly thicker than pancake batter – if it's too thick, add a little more sparkling water.
  3. 3
    Coat the Shrimp
    • Pat the shrimp dry, then dip each piece into the batter, letting any excess drip off.
  4. 4
    Fry the Shrimp

    Fry in oil preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 2-3 minutes or until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels.

  5. 5
    Tossing Shrimp in Sauce
    • Place the fried shrimp in a bowl once excess oil is drained and toss with sweet chili sauce. 
    • Toss the shrimp with the sauce until combined
  6. 6
    Toast the Bread
    • Brush the inside of the bread loaf with garlic butter and lightly toast in the oven or on a skillet until golden and crisp.
  7. 7
    Assemble the Po Boy
    • Spread tartar sauce on the inside of the toasted bread (if using).
    • Layer with shredded lettuce, pickled carrots, cucumbers, red onions, and pickled jalapeños.
    • Add the fried shrimp tossed in the sweet chili sauce.
  8. 8
    Serve

    Close the sandwich, slice in half, and enjoy immediately.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4

Serving Size 1 crunch wrap

Amount Per Serving
Calories 524kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 16.5g26%
Saturated Fat 5.2g26%
Cholesterol 107.6mg36%
Total Carbohydrate 39g13%
Dietary Fiber 5.2g21%
Protein 41.5g83%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note
  • Keep the Sparkling Water Cold: For the crispiest batter, make sure the sparkling water is ice-cold. The carbonation creates light, airy pockets in the coating.
  • Don’t Overcrowd the Fryer: Fry the shrimp in small batches to maintain the oil temperature and ensure even cooking.
  • Make-Ahead Tips: Prep your vegetables and garlic butter in advance to streamline assembly. You can also fry the shrimp ahead of time and reheat them in the oven at 375°F for a few minutes to restore crispiness.
  • Customizable Heat Levels: Adjust the spice by adding extra chili sauce or using pickled jalapeños for an extra kick.
Keywords: Asian fusion, Comfort Food, Lunch
Read it online: https://foodsofli.com/recipe/sweet-chili-shrimp-po-boy/
self photo
Lisa Okon
Self-Taught Cook

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