Tips for Enjoying Oysters at Christmas

“While oysters are enjoyed throughout the year, their consumption sees a surge during Christmas and the holiday season. Regardless of their variety, whether flat or cupped, they always bring joy to food enthusiasts. “

However, for the sake of your health, there are certain conditions to follow before consuming them, including the proper handling and storage of these mollusks. Here are five tips for savoring these famous shellfish.

Store at Room Temperature

Since oysters only inhabit the sea, they fall into the category of ‘seafood products.’ Therefore, it’s essential to store them in a cool place (between 5 and 15°C). The National Consumer Council has clearly stated that temperature fluctuations should be avoided to preserve the freshness and true taste of your oysters. You can also place them in vegetable crisper drawers or in a cool location like the garage.

Open Them Half an Hour Before Consumption

To preserve the authentic flavor of your oysters, it’s highly recommended to open them only half an hour before your meal. The mollusk renews its water after being removed from the first seawater. This second water is more delicious. Opening your oysters too early could cause you to lose this flavor.

How to Determine Oyster Freshness

Consuming dead oysters can have detrimental effects on your health. Therefore, it’s crucial to ensure that they are always fresh. But how can you tell? Simply take one and place it on the edge of your knife. Then, squeeze a drop of lemon juice on it. If the oyster ‘contracts,’ it’s proof that it’s still alive!

Oysters with Dry White Wine: A Pure Delight!

Selecting the right bottle of wine to accompany oysters can be a challenge. The choice depends entirely on the characteristics and variety of the mollusk in question. However, it’s worth noting that dry white wine pairs excellently with all oyster species. For plump oysters, opt for a full-bodied white wine. Oysters au gratin or in a sauce pair wonderfully with champagne.

To Chew or Swallow?

The best way to savor the true taste of an oyster is to chew it instead of swallowing it. Once in your mouth, you’ll experience a ‘genuine flavor explosion’ that will delight your taste buds even more, especially when enjoyed with a dash of lemon juice.