Three Tips for Oyster Beginners
In keeping with the theme from last week’s blog, this week we’re going to be talking about how to approach oysters as a beginner. Like sushi, oysters can be a little intimidating for a beginner. Another raw food, oysters aren’t dressed up with an interesting shape and presentation like sushi is. Oysters are laid bare right in front of you, and to many have an appearance that doesn’t immediately suggest, “Eat me!” But like sushi, oysters have a complex combination of flavors that can really excite the palette and open up a new world of flavors. So without further adieu, here are a few tips for the first time oyster eater that will help you get the most out of your experience.
Three Tips for Oyster Beginners
Start Small and Mild
Oysters come in all shapes and sizes and from all over the world. Their flavor is a product of the water in which they were harvested, which is why you can get such a wide variety of flavors with oysters. West coast oysters are known for being milder and sweet, while east coast oysters run the gamut from mild to briny.
For a beginner, the best choice is to start small and mild. This way, you won’t be overpowered by the size or taste of the oyster. A nice small oyster looks much more manageable than a big, briny one.
Try the First One With No Condiments
Try your first oyster without any condiments such as cocktail sauce. This way you’ll get the true flavor of the oyster and know what to expect in the future. Much of the taste is in the liquid that surrounds the oyster in its shell, which is known as liquor.
To chew, or not to chew?
That is the question. Is it nobler to slurp down without chewing, or to take teeth against the oyster and the sea of liquor? This choice will come down to personal preference. Many will argue that you won’t get the full flavor of the oyster without chewing, but to a beginner, chewing might not seem too appealing. If you’re unsure about chewing, it’s perfectly fine to eat an oyster without using your teeth. Once you’ve tried this and got an idea of the flavor, you can move on to chewing a few times before swallowing. A few chews is plenty to release all the flavor, and few people chew their oysters more than that.
Catonsville Gourmet: The Best Fresh Seafood in the Baltimore Area
Catonsville Gourmet is the perfect destination for fresh seafood, from crabmeat to rockfish to today’s fresh catch, in the Baltimore area. We offer the freshest seafood, delectable prepared foods, gourmet products and a unique dining experience.
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