The Cajun Queen: Po-Boy, The Legend

Other cities have their hoagies and subs, which are similar in shape and size, but are still miles away from the authentic po-boy, with its ethereal French bread, perfectly fired seafood or slow-roasted meats. According to legend, the name dates back to a local transportation strike during the 1920’s, when union members were treated to free sandwiches at a deli owned by former streetcar conductors Bennie and Clovis Martin. Whenever a striker approached the counter, Bennie would yell to Clovis, “Here comes another poor boy!”
Today almost every neighborhood has its own po-boy joint, sometimes within a corner grocery or bar. You mainly need to know that “brown gravy” is roast beef gravy, “red gravy” is marinara sauce, “MY-nez is mayonnaise, and “hot sauce” is fiery with cayenne pepper. You’ll also be asked if you want the sandwich “dressed,” that is, with shredded lettuce, tomato slices, dill pickles, and my-nez.

Making a Po-Boy:

Preparing the bread: Although light and crisp New Orleans-style French bread is best for po-boys, you may substitute a French baguette, seeded Italian loaf, or crusty roll. The traditional length for a sandwich is eight to ten inches. Split the bread lengthwise, butter it lightly, and broil it, cut sides up, until the surface is toasted to a golden brown but the bread is still soft.
Filling the Sandwich: Generously spread both halves with Creole mustard or any other spicy brown mustard and mayonnaise. Pile on the filling of your choice. Traditional favorites are roast beef and gravy, fried oysters, fried shrimp (prawns), hot Italian sausage, meatballs and mozzarella, or ham and Swiss cheese.
Dressing the Sandwich: Top the meat or seafood with finely shredded lettuce or cabbage, thinly slices tomatoes, and slices of dill pickle. Serve po-boy with sweet tea (which you may add 1/2 cup of brandy, just for the taste you see) or any other beverage you like.
It may be called a po-boy, but the king of New Orleans sandwiches are a two-fisted feast on French bread, piled high and messy with anything from basic to outrageous.

Well, enjoy. Until next time, Bona Petite!