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
- 12-14 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 pint shucked oysters, drained
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- Vegetable or peanut oil for frying
- Cocktail sauce or hot sauce for serving
Instructions
Place the flour in a shallow bowl or pie plate. Season with salt, black pepper, paprika and cayenne. Mix well.
In a separate shallow bowl, whisk the egg with the buttermilk.
Working in batches if needed, dredge the oysters in the flour, shaking off any excess. Dip in the egg wash, then back into the flour to coat well.
In a cast iron skillet, heat 1/2 inch of oil over medium-high. Test by dropping a small piece of bread – it should sizzle immediately.
Working in small batches, carefully add the breaded oysters to the hot oil. Fry for 2-3 minutes, flipping once, until golden brown all over.
Drain on a plate lined with paper towels. Season with extra salt while hot if desired.
Serve fried oysters immediately, while piping hot. Enjoy with cocktail or hot sauce for dipping.
3. How To Grill Oysters
Ingredients
- 24 fresh oysters in their shells
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/8 tsp black pepper
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
Prepare the herb butter by beating the softened butter with the garlic, parsley, basil, salt and pepper. Scoop into a small bowl and refrigerate until firm.
Preheat grill to high heat. Scrub oysters well under cold water to remove debris. Dry shells thoroughly.
Place oysters on the grill grate, hinged side down. Grill for 3-5 minutes, until shells open slightly.
Remove oysters from grill and loosen each from its shell using an oyster knife.
Top each warm oyster with about 1/2 teaspoon of the chilled herb butter.
Return oysters to the grill, buttered sides up. Grill 1-2 minutes more until butter is melted and bubbling.
Transfer oysters to a serving platter. Serve immediately with lemon wedges.
Enjoy the briny oysters with a burst of garlicky herb butter. Serve with chips, beers or champagne.
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!