I promised some photos from the birthday party. It was great weather for an oyster roast so I thought that I'd tell you how we prepare these delectable mollusks down South.
Now, there are people who steam them open in a big pot. But I prefer the following method that is a bit more "purist".
I build a hot fire with oak. Then place a piece of sheet metal on blocks that surround the fire (upper left photo). Once the metal gets good and hot, I add the oysters and then cover them with a couple of pieces of wet burlap.
When the oysters start to gape open (I hear panting), then I wait a few minutes before shoveling them up and putting them on the oyster shucking table.
I like for them to be firm and not runny. I also don't want any crispy critters so the timing is critical. Once they are on the table, then it's shucking time. And if there are pea crabs in with the oysters, then those are a delicacy and eaten as well.
Everyone seemed to enjoy eating oysters, followed by barbecue with all the fixin's, and having a good fire in the outdoor stove on the deck to sit around and talk.
And maybe it's true what those bumper stickers say, "Eat fish--live longer, eat oysters--love longer." Anyway, I like the idea.
Happy Wednesday to you.
that sounds pretty perfect to me, syd. thank you for sharing. have a good one.
ReplyDeleteMMMmmmmmm. That sounds exquisite!
ReplyDeleteGlad you had fun and thanks for sharing.. loved the bumper sticker, I who am not a lover of oysters,but do love fish and mussels.I like your cooking of them very much. IF you ever head to Canada and hit the East coast you should try Prince Edward Islands Raspberry Point Oysters.. freshly caught on the Island.
ReplyDeleteNever had oysters, but what you described does sound good. Isn't life great with just the simplest of things.
ReplyDeleteThat looks and sounds like the perfect meal for me! I love oysters mainly fried, but could eat them anyway.
ReplyDeleteThanks for you blog Syd. And thanks for showing me the kinder side of Al-Anon and AA.
Oh, it sounds like such fun. I'm not much of an oyster eater, but the description of your preparation sounds marvelous and would have lured me to try some.
ReplyDeleteGlad you had a wonderful time.
PG
Damn it Syd!
ReplyDeleteI want some roasted oysters.
I can't even imagine where one would find them...well except your place that is.
jusp pop in to say hi.
ReplyDeleteYa know I've been down here for 3 years and I've yet to hit an oyster roast... It looks and sounds divine!
ReplyDeleteYou sure you're from up north?
ReplyDeletedrooooool, droooooool, i'm gonna have to gate crash one of these events some day.....
ReplyDeletePlease invite us to your next oyster roast. Thank you.
ReplyDeleteHappy happy birthday! yum....
ReplyDeleteWonderful photos - and sounds like a great time!
ReplyDelete