{"id":78,"date":"2021-06-01T06:24:56","date_gmt":"2021-06-01T06:24:56","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bossoyster.com\/?p=78"},"modified":"2022-02-03T13:27:00","modified_gmt":"2022-02-03T13:27:00","slug":"how-to-eat-oysters","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bossoyster.com\/how-to-eat-oysters\/","title":{"rendered":"How To Eat Oysters"},"content":{"rendered":"

Disclosure: Thank you for reading our articles! Some links may be affiliate links. We may get paid if you buy something or take an action after clicking one of these links.  Additionally, as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.<\/span><\/p>\n

Here at BossOyster.com, we know a thing or two about oyster-eating!<\/p>\n

While eating raw oysters is often the most common way that people choose to enjoy this delicacy, there are a lot of other ways that oysters can be eaten, that will leave you salivating for more!<\/p>\n

\"How<\/span><\/p>\n

Though southern fried oysters are usually a delicious go-to for backyard cookouts and weeknight treats, grilled oysters Rockefeller is often the choice for oyster-lovers who have a more developed taste palate.<\/p>\n

As we delve a little deeper into the different ways oysters can be eaten, we’re sure you’ll come to see that, when it comes to oyster eating, there’s no one way to do it.<\/p>\n

On the contrary, this shelled delicacy can be prepped and cooked in a variety of different ways, not to mention tasting differently depending on where in the world you might be. <\/p>\n

We love all types of seafood here at Boss Oysters, but oysters are at the very top of our list.<\/p>\n

To help you get started in your oyster-eating journey, we’re going to be going over everything you need to know when it comes to eating oysters, including how to steam oysters<\/a>, what garnishes to use, as well as how to shuck and slurp them, of course! <\/p>\n

So, whether you’ve always wanted to taste an oyster<\/a>, or you’ve been eating them for years and have always wondered whether or not you’re eating them correctly – relax!<\/p>\n

Though there’s no ”right way” to eat an oyster, there are some general etiquette tips that you can follow to make sure that you don’t embarrass yourself at a fancy restaurant! Let’s delve a little deeper:        <\/p>\n

Top Tips for Eating Oysters<\/strong><\/h2>\n

If you’re just dipping your toes into the world of oysters, then it’s worth pointing out here that there are a lot of ways to eat oysters, as well as a lot of oysters to choose from!<\/p>\n

From butter-baked oysters at your local seafood bar to canned smoked oysters that can be bought for a fraction of what they would at a restaurant, oysters can be enjoyed by everyone, regardless of location or budget. <\/p>\n

Let’s start with the basics, though. If you’ve never tried oysters before and would like a recommendation, we suggest going for a West Coast oyster.<\/p>\n

Unlike other kinds that hail from other regions, these types of oysters are very sweet to the taste, which makes them ideal for those who do not yet have a developed oyster palate. <\/p>\n

However, if you want to dive in at the deep end, you could always consider stopping by at an oyster bar, where you will have the opportunity to try out a range of different types of oysters in one sitting.<\/p>\n

Are you the type that prefers buttery-sweet flavored oysters? Or is salty oyster meat more your thing?<\/p>\n

By taking the time to figure out what you like, you will have a better understanding of your palate and, in turn, will know what type of oysters to look for. <\/p>\n

This will also allow you to learn more about whether you prefer to eat oysters raw or prepared into a dish. With all that being said, let’s take a look at some of the most important things to consider prior to eating oysters:<\/p>\n

Which Type of Oyster Do You Want?<\/strong><\/h3>\n

From salty blue point oysters to delicately earthy Olympia oysters, there are different types of oysters for different types of taste preferences.<\/p>\n

What’s more, depending on what you like, you can even choose to enjoy them baked, grilled, boiled, or even directly from the shell after shucking them.<\/p>\n

Here are the five most commonly eaten species of oyster in the Western world:<\/p>\n

    \n
  1. Pacific oyster<\/li>\n
  2. Kumamoto<\/li>\n
  3. Bluepoint<\/li>\n
  4. Belon<\/li>\n
  5. Olympia<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

    Besides species, the origin of where the oyster has come from will also play a very big role in the overall taste, as well as their texture.<\/p>\n

    In addition to this, the taste and texture of an oyster can also vary depending on which season they were harvested. <\/p>\n

    With so many options to choose from, it can be pretty easy to get overwhelmed about which types of oysters are the best, or which will be the most appropriate for the types of dishes that you like to prepare while at home.  <\/p>\n

    No matter what your oyster-eating experience may be, knowing what type of oyster you have to choose from will help you make the most of your dining adventure. <\/p>\n

    What Portion Size do You Want?<\/strong><\/h3>\n

    If you want oysters that are on the larger side, then we recommend going for pacific or Kumamoto oysters.<\/p>\n

    Not only are these oysters bigger in size than other types and have more meat, but these particular oysters have a buttery and creamy taste that is ideal for all types of oyster-lovers. <\/p>\n

    These types of oyster species are more often than not farmed and harvested along the West Coast, but they can also be farmed on the Pacific coast, too.<\/p>\n

    Generally speaking, though, most raw oyster bars across the US will sell these species, though they are can sometimes be harvested before they reach their full size.<\/p>\n

    Speaking of the West Coast, no one does oysters quite like Antoine’s<\/a> located in New Orleans – they even invented the famous Rockefeller oyster! <\/p>\n

    Do You Have the Right Utensils?<\/strong><\/h3>\n

    In addition to all of that, you’ll also need to make sure that you have the correct utensils to eat your oysters – whether that be at home or the restaurant.<\/p>\n

    The most commonly used utensil is something known as an “Oyster Fork<\/a>” which is a small utensil that is made of three short and wide tines.<\/p>\n

    Winco 12-Piece Windsor Oyster Fork Set<\/strong><\/a><\/h3>\n

    <\/a>\"\"<\/p>\n

    These times are used to loosen up the contents of the shells, as well as remove all of the parts that are inedible without getting your fingers dirty.<\/p>\n

    Though it is smaller in size than a normal eating fork, it is larger in width as each tine is made to serve a slightly different purpose.<\/p>\n

    The left tine is the widest of all and is used to assist in the cutting of the membrane that connects the oyster to the shell, while the other two are intended to simply help loosen up the oyster from the shell.<\/p>\n

    Though this won’t matter so much if you are eating at home, if you are planning on visiting a local fine dining restaurant, then you will need to follow this formal customary eating code.<\/p>\n

    Another thing to learn as a beginner is how to correctly open oysters, and this is something that you will need to do before you can use your oyster fork to gently remove the membrane from the shell.<\/p>\n

    There are a variety of ways that an oyster shell can be opened up, although the most common by far is to open them using something known as a “Shucking Knife<\/a>”. <\/p>\n

    Oyster Shucking Knife<\/strong><\/a><\/h3>\n

    <\/a>\"\"<\/p>\n

    The shucking knife is a utensil that is used to help pry the oyster shell open.<\/p>\n

    If you’re unsure of how to use it or would like some guidance, we recommend checking out some tutorial videos online or even asking a waiter to show you if you are visiting a restaurant. <\/p>\n

    Similarly, another easy way by steaming oysters until the shells open. This is able to gently open the oysters all at once and is the least messy way to do it.<\/p>\n

    Have You Put Safety First?<\/strong><\/h3>\n

    As soon as you have an idea of what type of oysters you like, you’ll then be able to start purchasing oysters to cook at home.<\/p>\n

    However, please keep in mind that you should never purchase fresh oysters that have been opened up. <\/p>\n

    It’s important to remember that oysters are living muscles – which means that they need to eat.<\/p>\n

    For this reason, oysters are able to survive by constantly drawing in small amounts of the water it is submerged in, and that also includes viruses and bacteria. <\/p>\n

    This can then lead those viruses and bacteria to become saturated within the oyster’s body, and can then infect the person who consumes it. <\/p>\n

    One of the main infections that people can get from eating raw oysters is a type of bacteria that is known as Vibrio. This bacteria is a naturally occurring bacteria that is found in all coastal waters where oysters grow and reside.<\/p>\n

    The name of this infection is known as vibriosis which is characterized by the main symptoms of nausea, high temperatures, and sickness.<\/p>\n

    Interestingly, people can also catch vibriosis if they have gone swimming in salt or brackish water that contains the bacteria, and either swallowing the water accidentally or exposing an open wound to it. <\/p>\n

    More often than not, waters that contain Vibrio are found in open waters where the river meets the sea. <\/p>\n

    Though oysters that contain this harmful bacteria can sometimes be detected by smell and appearance, this isn’t always the case, which is why it’s so important to ensure that if you are going to purchase oysters yourself, you ensure that they are closed.<\/p>\n

    In addition, you should also try to make sure that you have purchased your oysters from a reputable source (such as Crab Place<\/a> ) where you can have the peace of mind that the oysters sold have undergone a careful harvesting process.<\/p>\n

    On the flip side, you should also avoid eating oysters that have already been opened at restaurants, unless you are positive that you are eating from a reputable seafood chain.<\/p>\n

    What Are the Best Sauces To Eat Oysters With?<\/strong><\/h2>\n

    Whether you want to add a little something extra to your plain oysters, or you’d like to begin hosting dinner parties for friends and want to make the experience truly special, pairing sauces with your favorite oysters<\/a> is a quick and easy way to elevate their flavor profile.<\/p>\n

    \"What<\/span><\/p>\n

    Here are some popular sauces and garnish suggestions:<\/p>\n

    Lemon Juice<\/strong><\/h3>\n

    Deemed by many to be the best way to enhance an oyster’s flavor, lemon juice is the choice of many oyster purists who want to let the flavor of their oysters shine.<\/p>\n

    A simple drop or two of lemon will allow you to enjoy all of the oyster’s flavor with a subtle zest that won’t take away from the full flavor profile of the oysters.<\/p>\n

    Hot Sauce<\/strong><\/h3>\n

    Another all time favorite topping for oysters (especially by those in the oyster capital of the world New Orleans!), cayenne pepper hot sauce<\/a> provides a spicy kick for any oysters.  One of the best happy hours someone can have are a cold beer, oysters with hot sauce, and live music to boot! <\/p>\n

    Mignonette Sauce<\/strong><\/h3>\n

    Though the name might sound expensive and fancy, mignonette sauce is super easy to make and requires ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen cupboard.<\/p>\n

    This French sauce is traditionally served with raw oysters and is characterized by its cracked pepper, shallots, and white\/red wine flavor.<\/p>\n

    It’s a wonderful choice for people who are new to the world of oysters and are not used to the texture of oysters.<\/p>\n

    Pesto Sauce<\/strong><\/h3>\n

    If you’re surprised to see pesto sauce appear on this list, rest assured that you’re not alone!<\/p>\n

    Many people overlook pesto sauce when it comes to oysters, but it has an earthy, rich flavor profile that pairs excellently with oysters.<\/p>\n

    Cocktail Sauce<\/strong><\/h3>\n

    Cocktail sauce<\/a> is one of the most traditional seafood sauce toppings.<\/p>\n

    Keep in mind, though many people that love oysters find that cocktail sauce entirely overpowers the flavor profile of the oysters. <\/p>\n

    For this reason, it’s a popular choice for people who are just starting out eating oysters, and have not yet developed their taste palate and want to take things slow. <\/p>\n

    Serrano Chile Lime Sauce<\/strong><\/h3>\n

    If you’d like a sauce that’s going to give a kick, then serrano chile-lime sauce<\/a> is just the ticket. This sauce is very easy to make, just mix a finely minced serrano chile with 2 tablespoons of lime juice and red wine vinegar.<\/p>\n

    Then, add a little salt and some chopped cilantro, and you’ll have yourself a fiery sauce ready to be paired with your oysters.<\/p>\n

    As a side note, regardless of whether you’re planning on entertaining guests or you simply want to treat yourself to a weekday oyster dish, the addition of sauces can make everything get messy – fast! Consider serving your chosen garnish or sauce in a side dish bowl<\/a>, especially if the presentation is important to you.<\/p>\n

    <\/strong><\/p>\n

    Sweese 123.001 Porcelain Mini Bowls<\/strong><\/a><\/h3>\n

    <\/a>\"\"<\/p>\n

    How Do You Eat Oysters From a Jar?<\/strong><\/h2>\n

    Contrary to what you might have been told, oysters don’t have to be saved for special occasions, you also don’t need to head to the fanciest restaurants in order to enjoy them, either!<\/p>\n

    Believe it or not, oysters have been a favorite among the gentry and the working classes for centuries, there are even aficionados of vintage oysters.<\/p>\n

    \"How<\/span><\/p>\n

    In case you are curious how long do oysters live, some of the most expensive breeds have been dated at over 20 years old! Of course,  fried oysters are typically made from more affordable breeds, but that doesn’t make them any less delicious.<\/p>\n

    If you’re planning on eating your oysters from a jar, then it’s important to keep in mind that both canned and jar oysters must always be cooked before you eat them.<\/p>\n

    If you’re planning on purchasing fresh oysters from a supplier (rather than visiting your local seafood restaurant), chances are that the oysters you purchase are going to come stored inside a jar, just like these shucked oysters.<\/a> <\/p>\n

    When you get them home and are ready to start eating them, there are a variety of ways that you can enjoy them!<\/p>\n

    To get you started, we’re going to be talking you through two popular ways that you can eat oysters from a jar: raw and deep-friend.<\/p>\n

    As oysters that come in a jar are almost always fresh, you have the option of eating them raw. If you’re a beginner and are unsure of how to open an oyster to eat, follow these steps below to make sure you do it correctly:<\/p>\n

      \n
    1. Take an oyster out of the jar.<\/li>\n
    2. Hold the oyster with the “cup” shaped part of the oyster directly pointing downwards, towards the floor (if done correctly, the pointed part of the oyster will be facing up towards you).<\/li>\n
    3. With a knife, gently insert it into the sealed area between the cup and lid of the oyster, as this will help to loosen it up.<\/li>\n
    4. If this does not work, try wiggling the knife back and forth a few times until you are able to get access to the inside of the oyster. While wiggling and twisting the knife, be extra careful to not apply too much pressure as it may cause parts of the shell to break away and make a mess on the floor.<\/li>\n
    5. Once the blade of the knife has successfully gone into the inner part of the oyster, carefully slide the knife down towards the hinge of the oyster, and then cut it off.<\/li>\n
    6. As soon as you have cut the hinge off, the oyster will then automatically open, and you can enjoy it. <\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

      As a side note, as the oysters are fresh, when they arrive in the jar container you will have around two weeks to eat them before they go bad. Many people that purchase shucked oysters choose to eat them deep-fried, which is a super popular dish. Follow the steps below to make it:<\/p>\n

      What You’ll Need:<\/strong><\/p>\n