Oysters are a popular seafood delicacy enjoyed around the world for their unique flavor and texture. In this article, I will instruct you how to cook oysters in 3 different ways and provide step-by-step instructions to help you get started.
1. How To Cook Oysters in Oven
Ingredients
- 12 fresh oysters in the shell
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
Scrub the oysters clean under running water with a stiff brush to remove any dirt or debris.
Carefully pry open the oysters with an oyster knife or other sharp knife. Insert the knife into the hinge at the base of the oyster and twist it to pop the shell open.
Use a small spoon to loosen the oyster from the shell, but leave it in the shell.
In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
Spoon a small amount of the garlic butter over each oyster, making sure to cover the entire surface. Next, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of each oyster then arrange the oysters on a baking sheet or oven-safe dish, with the flat side of the shell facing up.
Bake the oysters in the oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the butter is melted, the cheese is golden brown, and the oysters are cooked through.
Remove the oysters from the oven and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley.
Serve the oysters hot with lemon wedges on the side.
2. How To Cook Oysters Fried
Ingredients
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 24 medium oysters, shucked
- Peanut or vegetable oil for frying
- Lemon wedges
Instructions
In a shallow dish, mix together the cornmeal, flour, salt, black pepper and cayenne. Place the beaten eggs in one shallow bowl and the buttermilk in another.
Dry the oysters thoroughly with paper towels. One at a time, dredge the oysters in the flour mixture, dip in the egg, allow excess to drip off, then dip in the buttermilk. Finally, coat again in the flour mixture, pressing to adhere.
In a large skillet, heat 1/2 inch of oil over medium-high heat. Fry oysters in batches about 2 minutes per side until golden brown. Drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
Serve the fried oysters immediately with lemon wedges. They are best eaten right away while still crispy.
3. How To Grill Oysters
Ingredients
- 12 fresh oysters in the shell
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- Lemon wedges and hot sauce, for serving
Instructions
Preheat your grill to high heat (about 450°F/230°C).
Scrub the oysters clean under running water with a stiff brush to remove any dirt or debris.
Carefully pry open the oysters with an oyster knife or other sharp knife. Insert the knife into the hinge at the base of the oyster and twist it to pop the shell open.
Use a small spoon to loosen the oyster from the shell, but leave it in the shell.
In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
Spoon a small amount of the garlic butter over each oyster, making sure to cover the entire surface. Then arrange the oysters on the grill grates, with the flat side of the shell facing up.
Close the grill lid and cook the oysters for 6-8 minutes, or until the butter is melted, the oysters are cooked through, and the edges of the shells start to curl.
Remove the oysters from the grill with tongs and transfer them to a serving platter.
Serve the oysters hot with lemon wedges and hot sauce on the side.
By following the instructions outlined in this article, I hope that now you know how to cook oysters perfectly at home. So next time you’re in the mood for some fresh and flavorful seafood, don’t hesitate to try cooking oysters at home – you won’t be disappointed!
