Did you know if you enjoy eating oysters, you can shuck oysters and prepare them at home anytime with the right tools and tips? Whether you want to put them out for a party or have them for yourself, you can buy live oysters from your local fish market and prepare them at home with ease.
Our seafood experts here at NC Seafood are going to give you some tips on how to select oysters, prepare them, and show you how shucking oysters isn’t as hard as you may think.
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Why Oysters?
Oysters are not only delicious, but they are healthy for both humans and the environment. They provide high levels of brain and heart-boosting omega-3 fatty acids and iron. Oyster farms in the ocean have minimal impact on the environment and actually clean the water they are in.
Where are North Carolina Oysters Found?
Raised and caught in North Carolina, oysters are part of the cultural heritage of the Outer Banks and Crystal Coast. They’re typically located deep in the mud of the Albemarle and Pamlico Sound.
Today, hundreds of thousands of bushels of oysters are harvested and brought to the North Carolina shores for people to enjoy. This is a steep decline from the early 1900s, when the state produced more than two million bushels a year. Pollution and overharvesting have contributed to this drop, making oyster farming and responsible harvesting more important than ever.
How to Choose the Best Oysters
Like most seafood, oysters are not created equal. They may look similar, but quality can vary widely. Here’s what to keep in mind when choosing oysters:
Prime Oyster Season is Important
Although oysters are available year-round, the best time to buy oysters is between September and April.
Look for a Tight Seal
The best oysters have the tightest shell seal. If the shell is loose or open, the oyster may not be good to eat.
Oyster Size Matters
Larger oysters often contain more meat, making them worth the effort to open. Smaller oysters can be tasty, but they may not be as rewarding to shuck.
What is the Difference Between Shucked and Unshucked Oysters?
Unshucked oysters still have both shells intact. Stored properly in a cool spot, they can last up to two weeks after harvesting. Shucked oysters, on the other hand, have already been opened and the meat removed from the shell. These can be eaten raw or cooked in a variety of ways.
How to Shuck an Oyster
Shucking oysters takes practice, but once you learn the technique, you’ll be opening and enjoying them with confidence.
Step 1: Check & Clean Your Oysters
Keep oysters on crushed ice until you’re ready to prepare them. Discard any with cracked shells or exposed meat. Scrub the shells under cold water to remove sand and debris.
Step 2: Open the Shell
Hold the oyster with a towel or oyster glove, cupped side down, flat side up. Insert your oyster knife into the hinge and twist until the shell pops open. Avoid using a kitchen knife — an oyster knife is safer and more effective.
Step 3: Expose the Oyster
Once the hinge is popped, slide your knife between the shells to fully open it. Be careful to keep the oyster’s natural juices inside. Place shucked oysters back on ice until ready to serve.
How to Prepare and Eat Oysters
Many people enjoy eating oysters raw right after shucking. A squeeze of lemon highlights their natural flavor, while cocktail sauce or a vinegar-shallot mignonette adds a tangy kick.
If raw isn’t your preference, shucked oysters can also be cooked in many ways: grilled, broiled, baked, or fried. You can even dip them in melted butter for a rich, savory taste. For gatherings, serving oysters on ice with a variety of sauces gives your guests options to enjoy.
Enjoy Oysters at NC Seafood Restaurant in Raleigh!
Don’t worry if you don’t want to shuck oysters at home — NC Seafood will do the work for you! Our team prepares Calabash-style fried oysters that are flavorful and cooked to perfection.
NC Seafood Restaurant in Raleigh near Garner and Cary offers oysters and a wide variety of seafood favorites. Check out our menu and order online for take-out. We look forward to serving you!