Let's Get Shuckin'!
Removing oysters from their shells (shucking) is not difficult, but it does take practice. As you might expect, the fresher the oyster, the more difficult it is to open.
One trick that works is to heat the oysters in a microwave for a few seconds, just long enough to heat their shells. Another option is to place the oysters in the freezer for about 5 minutes, which also lulls them into relaxing their muscles.
Using a basic oyster knife is the best way to shuck oysters. And you should always protect your hands with rubber or cloth kitchen gloves because it's easy for the oyster knife to slip or for you to cut yourself on the shell.
Shucking an Oyster, Step by Step:
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Place an oyster cup side down onto a clean kitchen towel or cutting board. |
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Insert the point of the oyster knife into the hinge, and wiggle the knife while placing a little pressure downward into the oyster and not towards your hand. If you are successful, the oyster shell will crack open. |
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Run the knife along the top of the shell to release the oyster into the bottom half of the shell. Be careful not to lose the liquid. Discard the top shell, along with any loose shell fragments. |
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Carefully run the knife under the oyster flesh to release it from its adductor muscle on the bottom shell |
Try our Fortune Oysters with cocktail sauce, mignonette sauce (a shallot and vinegar based condiment), or with a lemon wedge!