Expert tips from St. Elmo Steak House's Executive Chef Karl Benko on shucking and displaying oysters. Get ready to impress your guests effortlessly!
Classic Display: Use a bed of crushed ice combined with kosher salt accompanied by sauces like St. Elmo Prepared Horseradish, St. Elmo Cocktail Sauce and mignonette sauce.
Oyster Shooters:Â Combine Bloody Mary mix with Barkeep Vodka and a healthy dollop of St. Elmo Cocktail Sauce or Prepared Horseradish. Invite your guests to take the shot as they enter the door!
- 1 c Barkeep Vodka
- 1.5 c Bloody Mary mix
- 2+ tsp St. Elmo Prepared Horseradish or St. Elmo Cocktail Sauce
- Combine ingredients in cocktail shaker with ice. Shake and serve in a shot glass topped with an oyster. Yield 6.
Personalized Oyster Cups: display each oyster in an individual cup with a mini tabasco sauce. Your guests can choose their heat level by adding St. Elmo cocktail sauce, prepared horseradish and tabasco.
HOW TO SHUCK OYSTERS
Shucking oysters can be intimidating, but with the right techniques, it’s easy.
Tools Needed: A sharp pointed oyster knife, a Kevlar glove (with latex over it), and heavy kitchen towels for stabilization.
Shucking Techniques
- Brush the oyster clean.
- Wiggle your wrist to pop open the top shell.
- Check for debris and scoop the oyster from the bottom, leaving the liquor intact.
- Time Commitment: Approximately one minute per oyster.
Why you shouldn’t be intimidated by serving oysters
Accessibility: With plenty of reputable sources for fresh oysters, you can easily find quality options to suit your gathering.
Versatile Serving Options: From classic platters to fun shooters, there are many creative ways to present oysters.
Impressive Yet Simple: Serving oysters can elevate your event without requiring extensive culinary skills. With a little preparation, you’ll wow your guests effortlessly!