How to Make a Poor Boy Sandwich

A Poor Boy sandwich, or "po-boy" for short, is a New Orleans classic delicacy. As with all great cultural staples, the sandwich ingredients vary widely. Roast beef and shrimp are two popular meats used in the traditional Poor Boy version, but many people prefer to start off with something like ham or salami. All great Poor Boy sandwiches do, however, begin with the most important ingredient: fresh, high quality French bread.

Things You'll Need

  • 1 loaf French bread
  • Spreading butter
  • Lettuce
  • 8 slices ham, salami or other thinly sliced deli meat
  • 8 slices Swiss or cheddar cheese
  • 1 onion sliced into rings
  • Olives (optional)
  • Chopped pepper or pimento (optional)
  • Anchovies (optional)
  • Dill pickle (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cut the loaf lengthwise into two pieces. Apply a generous amount of butter on both sides.

  2. Place lettuce leaves on both pieces of bread. Place the salami or other preferred meats on the bottom piece of French bread.

  3. Add cheese and onion rings on the bottom piece of bread. Put the top piece of bread over the bottom piece of bread.

  4. Add any combination of the optional ingredients (pickles, olives, pimentos, etc.) here. Or, use your imagination and add your favorite toppings.

  5. Cut the sandwich into four pieces, then serve immediately or wrap in plastic or foil to take on the road.