Oysters, a symbol of indulgence and coastal living, have captivated seafood lovers for centuries. With their briny, slightly sweet flavor and plump, tender texture, freshly shucked oysters present a culinary canvas brimming with possibilities. Accompanied by the classic sauce mignonette, a tangy and refreshing condiment that elevates the natural flavors of the oyster, this pairing reaches new heights of culinary delight. However, for those seeking a culinary escapade beyond the traditional, a twist on the classic sauce mignonette opens doors to a world of exciting flavor combinations, transforming the humble oyster into a gourmet masterpiece.
Here are our top 4 tried and tested recipes!
OYSTERS WITH A CLASSIC MIGNONETTE SAUCE
Steps:
- Stir together the vinegar, shallots and 1/4 teaspoon salt and pepper in a small bowl. Let sit for at least 10 minutes to let the flavors combine. Drizzle the sauce over the oysters.
FRESHLY SHUCKED OYSTERS AND SAUCE MIGNONETTE WITH A TWIST!
A classic with a twist - I like to add a splash or three of Tabasco sauce to my shallot and red wine vinegar Mignonette sauce, for that extra zap! This is easy to make and is even better if you let the oysters marinate in the sauce for ten to fifteen minutes before serving them. I also like my oysters au natural with just a squeeze of lemon, but variety is the spice of life, and this makes an exciting change! The quantities listed below will be sufficient for between 12 large and 24 small oysters.
Provided by French Tart
Categories Sauces
Time 1h
Yield 2-4 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 8
Steps:
- For the Mignonette sauce: Combine all the ingredients togther in a jam jar or sealed container - shake thoroughly and allow the flavours to mingle for at least 1 hour before serving.
- Serve (in a little bowl with a small spoon) with freshly shucked oysters.
- Excess sauce can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
- How to open the oysters: Hold an oyster firmly with a cloth in one hand.
- and the hinged end towards you. Insert a knife in the area where the two.
- shells meet and prise open with a twisting action. Slide the blade along the inside edge of the shell to sever the muscle holding the shells together. Cut the muscle attachment to lower shell. Turn the oyster meat for best presentation.
- NB: The best way to serve raw oysters is on a platter of crushed ice, or sometimes you see them presented on a bed of seaweed.
- At a dinner party allow 6 oysters per person as a starter.
- A live oyster uses its muscle to hold the shells tightly closed. When an oyster weakens, the shell gapes open and if it will not close when tapped, it should be discarded.
- Oysters will keep for up to one week if stored correctly, deep shell down in a fridge or cool place. Cover with a damp cloth to prevent dehydration. Never store in water.
- Oysters can be frozen for up to 3 months just as other fish products. The shells will open on thawing BUT CONSUME STRAIGHT AWAY.
- Champagne is possibly the best drink to serve with oysters, or Bucks fizz if eating oysters for breakfast.
- Other wines that go well with oysters are light dry and slightly acidic wines like Muscadet.
- As the wine has to compete with the salty, natural flavour of oysters, a fuller bodied wine distracts from both the taste of wine and the oyster.
- In Ireland you will always get served oysters with Guinness, and a very dry cold sherry in Spain.
- Personally I like Sancerre, Vouvray or Chablis with my oysters!
OYSTERS WITH MIGNONETTE GELEE
Here, freshly shucked oysters shimmer with mignonette gelee, the traditional vinegar sauce prepared with a little gelatin.
Provided by Martha Stewart
Categories Food & Cooking Appetizers
Number Of Ingredients 9
Steps:
- Mix shallot, pepper, and vinegars in a small bowl. Sprinkle gelatin over 1 tablespoon water in another bowl, and let soften, about 5 minutes.
- Heat remaining 3 tablespoons water in a small saucepan until steaming. Stir in gelatin mixture. Pour some of the hot liquid into the bowl that the gelatin was in, swirl around, and pour back into pan. Cook over medium heat, stirring, until gelatin dissolves. Pour through a sieve into vinegar mixture. Refrigerate until set, at least 3 hours (or overnight).
- To serve, spoon about 1/2 teaspoon gelee onto each oyster (amount may differ depending on the size of each oyster), and serve with horseradish and lemon wedges.
SHUCKED OYSTERS WITH THREE SAUCES
This crowd-pleasing approach to serving oysters has a little something for everyone: a classic mignonette, a spicy variation with jalapeno, and a zippy fresh horseradish sauce. Shucking your own oysters at home for the first time? Take a look at our comprehensive guide before you buy.
Provided by Martha Stewart
Categories Food & Cooking Appetizers
Time 45m
Yield Serves 6 to 8
Number Of Ingredients 15
Steps:
- Horseradish: Coarsely chop horseradish, then transfer to food processor and pulse until finely ground. Add sugar, salt and vinegar and pulse to combine.
- Jalapeno Mignonette: Combine all ingredients in a bowl and whisk to dissolve sugar.
- Red Wine Mignonette: Combine all ingredients in a bowl and whisk to dissolve sugar.
- Oysters: Just before serving, arrange chilled and freshly shucked oysters on a platter filled with crushed ice. Pour sauces into small serving bowls and place alongside oysters with lemon wedges. (Sauces can be made ahead and refrigerated in an airtight container up to 1 week.)
Tips:
- Choose the right oysters: Look for oysters that are plump and have a deep cup. Avoid any oysters that are cracked or have a foul smell.
- Shuck the oysters carefully: Use a sharp oyster knife to pry open the shell. Be careful not to cut yourself.
- Prepare the mignonette sauce: Combine shallots, vinegar, and pepper in a bowl. Let the flavors meld for at least 15 minutes before serving.
- Serve the oysters immediately: Oysters are best enjoyed fresh. Serve them with mignonette sauce and lemon wedges.
Conclusion:
Freshly shucked oysters with mignonette sauce are a classic seafood dish that is both delicious and elegant. With a few simple ingredients and a little bit of care, you can easily prepare this dish at home. Whether you're serving them as an appetizer or a main course, your guests are sure to be impressed.
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