The Great Debate – How to Cook Oysters
Health Benefits of Oysters
It’s no secret that fish are high in vitamins and antioxidants. But did you know this includes oysters too? Oysters contain all nine essential amino acids: histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, threonine, tryptophan, and valine. Additionally, they are packed with protein so they make for a filling but low-calorie meal/snack option.
Raw vs. Steamed vs. Baked vs. Fried
There are a bunch of different ways to prepare oysters including steaming, baking, frying or simply serving them raw.
Raw Oysters
One serving of raw oysters is just 43 calories, making it the lowest calorie style out of the bunch. Another fun fact which you may have heard is that raw oysters are an aphrodisiac meaning they contain dopamine AKA the “feel good” neurotransmitter. Dopamine contributes to feeling motivated and happiness – a major plus for a delicious food!
Raw Oysters must be kept in a cool environment until they are ready to be served. When preparing them at home, keep them in the fridge and covered with a wet towel. When it’s time to serve the oysters, you will want to prepare your toppings of choice, set up a crushed ice serving platter, then shuck them. It’s important not to store oysters on top of ice until they are ready to be served because being submerged into fresh water can kill them.
Steamed Oysters
For those who enjoy the natural flavor of oysters but don’t want to eat them completely raw, steamed is the best option. It’s also incredibly simple all you need is your oysters and water!
First, scrub the oyster shells to remove any mud but be careful not to leave them sitting in water. Place the oysters cup side down in a steamer pan or basket over a pot of boiling water and cover with a lid. Let the oysters steam until the shell opens. Usually this takes between 5-10 minutes. And that’s it – add your favorite toppings and enjoy!
Baked Oysters
Baked oysters are fun to serve as appetizers at gatherings or parties and pair really nicely with white wine and champagne.
The first step to preparing baked oysters is to line a baking sheet with rock salt or dry, uncooked rice to prevent the shells from wobbling while in the oven. Then shuck the oysters and place them on top of the baking sheet. Next, you’ll prepare the topping.
Melt butter in a skillet and add panko crumbs and stir until they are golden. Then add to a mixing bowl with some chives and lemon juice. Top each oyster with the mixture and pop them into the oven for about 8-10 minutes and voila!
Fried Oysters
The most complex way to prepare oysters is by frying them. While the process itself is simple, this style requires the most ingredients with the most steps for preparation. That being said, it’s one of the most delicious ways to serve oysters and why we love to serve them fried at Timoti’s.
The first step is to drain the oysters then place them into a bowl of beated eggs. Combine cornmeal, sugar, pepper, salt and flour into a mixing bowl to create the batter. Next, roll the oysters individually into the mixture until they are evenly coated. Heat vegetable oil in a deep sauce pan and carefully add the oysters to the oil. The oysters should be fully cooked and perfectly crisp in 2-4 minutes.
Finally, drain the oysters and serve them with your favorite toppings and dipping sauces.
Try Timoti’s Oysters
If you’re not quite yet comfortable preparing your own seafood or prefer to dine out, at Timoti’s, we serve fried oysters and oyster po-boys with slaw, fries and hush puppies. If oysters aren’t your jam, no worries! We serve a variety of fish and non-seafood options.