If you’re not a regular at the raw bar, it can be intimidating to slurp up an oyster in public if you don’t know what your doing. It’s certainly not your typical seafood fish or meal that you can use a fork and knife for. It requires a certain technique to master the art. Luckily, it’s not too difficult once you get the hang of it! Like everything else, practice makes perfect. We have some tips to help you dig into your oyster and look like you know what you’re doing. Before you know it, you’ll be tossing them back like the pros!
Use the smallest fork to gently loosen the oyster from the shell. This will allow it to slide into your mouth smoothly. Once it’s loosened, raise the edge of the shell to your lips and gently tip it back until the entire oyster has slid into your mouth. Don’t drain off the liquid, known as oyster liquor, from the shell before you eat it either. This liquid perfectly compliments the flavors of the oyster and shouldn’t be wasted!
Some people like to swallow the oyster whole, but the majority of people prefer to chew them, as that is how you get the full flavor. Many people who eat raw oysters garnish them with lemon juice, cocktail sauce, or a Champagne mignonette sauce as a companion condiment.
Don’t Forget to Chew
It’s a common misconception that you should swallow an oyster whole. Chewing an oyster is the best way to enjoy the full flavor profile. Savor the oyster and take your time chewing before you swallow.
Discard the Empty Shell
Once you’ve eaten the oyster, you need to discard the remaining shell. You can do this either by placing it back on the ice it was served on or placing it to the side on a plate. Be sure to place the oyster face down once you’re finished.
How to eat oysters (and not be weirded out) – Edible Education – KING 5 Evening
FAQ
Is it better to chew or swallow oysters?
What is the rule for eating raw oysters?
What happens if you chew raw oysters?
Can you eat oysters raw?
And unlike other shellfish and crustaceans, including lobster and crawfish, oysters can (and should!) be eaten raw. Here’s how to eat those freshly shucked oysters the right way. What do oysters taste like? Do you chew oysters? Are oysters alive when you eat them? How do you prepare fresh oysters to eat? How do you know if an oyster is fresh?
Are oysters bad for cholesterol levels?
No, on the contrary, studies show that frequent consumption of oysters manages to lower cholesterol levels, due to the high content of essential fatty acids (omega-3 and omega-6).
What happens if you eat oysters raw?
In the process, they filter out harmful substances from the water. That filtration is great for the ocean ecosystem but makes eating oysters risky for humans because potentially harmful bacteria, viruses, or other pathogens can build up in the mollusk’s tissues. If you eat the oysters raw or undercooked, those germs can be passed along to you.
Can you eat raw oysters in hot sauce?
MYTH:Eating raw oysters are safe if you drown them in hot sauce, which kills everything. Fact: The active ingredients in hot sauce have no more effect on harmful bacteria than plain water. Nothing but prolonged exposure to heat at a high enough temperature will kill bacteria. MYTH:Avoid oysters from polluted waters and you’ll be fine.