How To Eat Oysters

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Categories: Food & Drink | Seafood | How Tos

  • Considered a delicacy by many, oysters have a unique and rich flavor. If you're new to the experience of eating them, this guide will teach you how to eat oysters.

  • Introduction

    • In the 1800s in the United Kingdom, oysters were considered a food for the poor, and those from the higher classes wouldn't touch them. However, in modern times, oysters are often considered a delicacy and are enjoyed by people from all walks of life. Some may balk at the idea, but many coinossuers agree that oysters are best eaten raw.

  • Step 1: Purchasing and Storing Oysters

    When purchasing fresh oysters, only buy those whose shells are tightly closed. For best taste and maximum freshness, eat them soon after purchasing them. If necessary, oysters can be stored for a day or two before eating them, but must always be kept cold, or they will start to open and lose their freshness.

    • When storing oysters:
    1. Lay them flat
    2. Wrap them in a damp tea towel or place in a bucket or pan of ice
    3. Place them in the fridge

  • Step 2: Shucking Oysters

    • Although their shells help keep the meat and liquid inside the shells fresh, they can pose a bit of a problem, as they are difficult to open. To efficiently open a closed oyster shell, you will need a specialized tool called an oyster knife.
    1. Wrap a towel around your hand to protect it in case the knife slips
    2. Hold the oyster in your towel-wrapped hand, with rounder side of the shell on the bottom
    3. Slide the knife between the top and bottom portions of the shell near the hinge
    4. Twist the knife to the side to pop open the hinge
    • Mastering the skill of opening oysters using an oyster knife takes some practice. If you aren't having any success, place the oysters in the microwave for about 30 seconds or on a hot grill for two or three minutes to open them.

  • Step 3: Oyster Accompaniments

    • Some people choose to eat fresh oysters with:
    1. Lemon juice
    2. Cocktail sauce
    3. Tabasco sauce
    4. Shallot vinegar
    5. Horseradish
    • To ensure that you still get the flavor of the oyster, only add a small amount of your chosen sauce or garnish.

  • Step 4: Eating Oysters

    • Once the oysters are open, they should be served on the shell and consumed with the liquid, or "liquor," that surrounds them.
    • To eat a fresh oyster:
    1. Use a fork to move it around slightly in the shell to ensure that it is not still attached. If it is still attached, use the fork to gently pry it from the shell
    2. Hold the oyster shell between your thumb and forefinger so that the narrowest part of the shell is pointing toward your mouth
    3. Place the edge of the shell near your lips
    4. When ready, tilt your head back slightly while tipping the shell
    5. Allow the oyster and the liquid to slide into your mouth
    6. Don't swallow the oyster whole; savor it as you chew it slowly

  • Conclusion

    • Eating raw oysters is not an activity that everyone enjoys. However, if you have the opportunity to eat some fresh, good-quality oysters, consider trying at least one. Many people find that they actually end up enjoying the unique flavor of fresh oysters.

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