How good is seafood? Absolutely delicious, especially now that we’re in the heart of summer and that holiday vibe is in the air!
It’s not just about enjoying a plate of seafood pasta (with a sea view, perhaps), it’s about tasting something that transports us through time and space, to places filled with wonderful memories and loud, joyful laughter.
Good food brings people together, which is why we want to explore every single detail, to make sure it’s perfect for those we love most!
In this article, to celebrate the magic of sea and summer, we’ll talk about a mollusk for refined palates, for those who love to elevate any dish: the oyster.
Beyond that, we’ll finally give you the ultimate, foolproof method to open the oysters with ease!
Oysters: features and health benefits
The oyster is a bivalve mollusk with a rough, uneven shell that helps it cling to rocks, the latter is gray with dark spots, usually round in shape, though it can vary depending on several factors.
Inside the shell lies the precious oyster, resting on a smooth, white surface and generally round in shape. There are many types of oysters, which you can explore in this detailed guide.
Oysters are rich in protein and contain essential minerals like iron and calcium. , which are beneficial for our health. They’re often recommended in weight-loss diets, but keep in mind that portions should be limited: oysters contain a lot of salt and a relatively high amount of cholesterol. As with any food, moderation is key.
Also, it’s important to know exactly where your oysters come from, as they act as natural filters – similarly to mussels – and might absorb large quantities of possibly dangerous bacteria. That’s why you should always rely on a certified purification center like ours, which guarantees maximum quality, traceability and freshness.
Oysters & Kitchen
Oysters are a true delicacy and are often enjoyed raw for their incredibly delicate flavor.
That said, cooked oysters are also delicious and definitely worth trying at least once, some people enjoy them au gratin and they’re said to be absolutely mouthwatering!
There are only a few, crucial, things to keep in mind when purchasing oysters: first, be sure to clean the shells thoroughly, even though farmed oysters are usually already fairly clean.
The second, and most important, factor is where they come from: always make sure your oysters are sourced from reputable farms or sustainable fisheries.
Oysters shouldn’t be stored in the fridge for long, no more than one day. It’s best to eat them fresh, both for optimal taste and food safety.
The biggest challenge when buying oysters is opening them.. Their shells are tightly sealed, almost like a vault and – since they’re usually eaten raw – you can’t rely on cooking them open like you would with mussels or clams.
That’s why we’ll now answer the most important question: how do you open oysters?
The ultimate solution for opening oysters
You’ll need some elbow grease, a pair of gloves, and a good oyster knife, one not too sharp but with a teardrop-shaped blade (there are plenty of models specifically made for this purpose).
Before you begin, you better give the oysters a good rinse under running water and dry them well to prevent slipping.
Next, grab that special knife mentioned earlier: don’t use a regular kitchen knife, as its rounded tip won’t fit between the shells and the blade could easily snap.
Wrap your hand in a kitchen towel or use an oven mitt, then hold the oyster firmly. Look for a spot where you can insert the knife , usually along the side of the shell or just beneath the top, flatter, shell.
Avoid placing the knife at the front or back of the oyster, as it may slip and cause injury.
The pressure you apply when you insert the knife shouldn’t be too much, nor too little (it would be impossible to insert the knife otherwise): finding that perfect balance is the trickiest, but most crucial, part!
Once the blade is inserted, gently work your way around the entire oyster: as you move the knife along the edge, the muscle will loosen and the two shells will separate, revealing the prized flesh inside.
That’s it, you’re done! One last tip: detach the oyster from the shell before eating it to make it easier to enjoy: remember that oysters aren’t meant to be chewed, but they should be swallowed whole.
Now that you know how to open oysters with ease, you can enjoy them whenever you like at home and create delicious dishes for any special occasion.
