Do you love oysters, but are not sure how to serve them? Oysters are quite versatile, and can be baked, steamed or eaten on the half shell. They are simple to cook (or not cook), although the shucking process can require a learning curve (avoid shucking by using the steaming method). This page will teach you how to prepare oysters.
Oysters are considered a delicacy, and are sure to impress at cocktail or dinner parties. Many adore slurping them down uncooked, while others balk at the very thought. The good news is that they may be cooked a number of ways, including baking and steaming. You will find instructions on how to prepare all three versions below.
Tips
Try using oyster meat in a New England chowder
For crispy oysters, dredge in a tempura or beer batter and deep fry in peanut oil
How to Shuck an Oyster
A little nervous about your oyster shucking skills? This expert will show you how to do it easily, without injuring yourself. Once the oysters are shucked, you may eat them or use them in recipes.
How to Prepare Raw Oysters
- Discard any open oysters
- Clean the shells thoroughly with a vegetable scrubber
- Rinse well
- Keep well chilled until ready to shuck
- To shuck, hold an oyster in a kitchen towel with the smallest half of the shell facing up
- Slip an oyster shucking knife (never use sharp kitchen knives) between the shells
- Cut around the shell, through the hinge muscle
- Keep well-chilled until serving
- Serve on ice with lemon slices, hot sauce and/or ponzu sauce
How to Bake Oysters
These rich, baked oysters make a great appetizer. Alternatively, you may season as you like and follow the baking instructions.
- Clean and shuck a dozen oysters, and keep on the half shell
- Heat oven to 400 degrees
- Saute a minced garlic clove and 1/2 cup breadcrumbs in 2 tablespoons of butter
- Add a dash of cayenne pepper or hot pepper sauce
- Spread onto oysters
- Sprinkle with Romano cheese
- Bake in casserole dish for 15 minutes
How to Steam Oysters
Steaming is the easiest way to prepare oysters, as there is no shucking required!
- Clean oysters
- Pour an 1-2 inches of water and 8 ounces beer into a steamer or saucepan with lid
- Bring to a boil
- Add oysters and cover
- Steam until opened, around 10 minutes
- Discard any unopened oysters
- Serve with lemon and melted butter or hot sauce
