Raw Oysters Recipes

RAW OYSTERS ON THE HALF SHELL

Steps:

• Scrub the oysters under cold water with a stiff brush to remove the dirt, especially in the hinge area where mud has a tendency to get trapped. Next, find a durable thick cloth and fold it over several times to create a square; this will steady the oysters as you shuck them and also protect your hand. Using the towel as a mitt, place the oyster, cup-side down in the palm of your towel-covered hand with the hinge facing you; have a small bowl handy to catch the delicious juice. Insert the tip of an oyster knife or dull butter knife as far into the hinge as it will go; don't jab it in there or you could break the shell. With gentle force, twist the knife back and forth to pry the shell open. Using the knife, cut the muscle away from the top shell, bend the shell back, and discard it. Run the knife underneath the oyster to detach it completely, but leave it in its shell. Tip out the briny liquor into the bowl and pour it back over the shucked oysters. Nestle the oysters in a bed of crushed ice or rock salt to keep them steady. Spoon the Cucumber Mignonette on top and serve as part of a raw shellfish bar.
• In a small bowl, combine the rice wine vinegar, shallots, ginger, cucumber, black pepper, and cilantro; mixing with a fork. Cover and chill for at least 1 hour or up to the day before you plan to serve, to allow the flavors to come together. Serve with raw oysters and clams.

RAW OYSTERS WITH 3 DIPPING SAUCES

Steps:

• For the mignonette: Combine the vinegar, chipotle, peppercorns, shallots, cilantro, and honey. Season to taste with salt and pepper and chill.
• For the relish: In a medium saucepan, combine the juices, ginger, garlic and honey and bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce by half and set aside to cool. When the syrup has cooled to room temperature, add the shallots, cilantro, lime segments, and zest. Season to taste with salt and pepper and pour into a nonreactive bowl.
• For the horseradish sauce: Combine all ingredients.
• For the oysters: Serve the oysters on ice with the mignonette, relish and horseradish sauce.