Classic Crispy Fried Oysters
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Whether you’re looking for a simple fried oyster recipe or want to spice things up with some southern flair, you will not be disappointed with these delicious deep fried oysters. Cornmeal is the secret ingredient to make them extra crispy!
When I’m looking to impress, I serve seafood for a special occasion. Some of my favorites are Honey Garlic Shrimp, Lemon Butter Scallops, and these crispy and tender fried oysters.
Did you know that oysters are named after a river in France? Believe it! They’re also considered a delicacy by many, perfect to serve for holidays or special occasions with a dipping sauce.
Ingredients & Substitutes
- Oysters – Look for fresh oysters that don’t smell fishy. Their shells should snap closed when tapped. Buy 4-6 oysters per person.
- Eggs – You’ll need to dredge oysters in egg wash in order to coat them properly. You can also substitute buttermilk if you want to avoid eggs.
- Flour – Use regular all-purpose flour.
- Corn Meal – It’s the secret ingredient that makes the fried oysters nice and crispy. Use ground yellow cornmeal for this recipe.
- Garlic Powder – Adds complexity and deep rich flavor to the oysters.
- Salt – I used kosher salt, but you can use regular table salt or sea salt.
- Ground Black Pepper – Freshly ground black pepper works the best.
- Vegetable Oil – For deep frying.
How to Make Deep Fried Oysters
1. Whisk together flour, yellow corn meal, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Beat the eggs in a medium mixing bowl.
3. Add the oysters to the egg and let them sit for 10-15 minutes.
4. Remove the oyster one by one and dredge through the flour mixture.
5. Deep fry the oyster in hot oil in small batches to keep the temperature up. Fry until golden and crisp, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Remove the fried oyster using a slotted spoon. Serve with hot sauce and enjoy! You can sprinkle with more salt and pepper.
Tips & Tricks
- Use vegetable oil such as peanut oil or canola oil when it comes to deep-frying, as they have a higher smoke point.
- Adding corn meal to the flour mixture will make the oyster crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
- I recommend using a deep fry thermometer if you’re not using a deep fryer. Adjust the heat to keep the temperature between 300-350˚F.
- Fried oysters cook fast (about 1-2minutes), so don’t take your eyes off them!
- Drain briefly on a paper towel after frying to rid of any excess oil.
Variations
- Pan fried oysters: If you’re looking for a quick way to fry oysters that won’t compromise the crispy crust you’re looking for, then pan fried oysters are the perfect option. Simply batter them up with eggs and flour, add a little salt and pepper to taste and voilà!
- Southern fried oysters: Craving a little taste of the south without travelling to the south? These are the way to go! Grab the cornmeal, flour and creole seasoning and you’ll feel like you’re right in the south without leaving the comfort of your home.
- Panko fried oysters: They’re light and airy with an extra crispy crust! Make sure that you dry off your oysters completely after washing and then saturate with your panko mixture as much as possible to get that perfect crust.
- New Orleans Fried Oysters: Much like Southern fried oysters, New Orleans fried oysters create another irresistible southern taste. The secret is to serve them with a remoulade sauce, and don’t forget the cajun seasoning!! You won’t be disappointed!
Frequently Asked Questions
How to Shuck Oysters?
If you have an oyster shucking knife, it’s a relatively straightforward process. However, you can still easily open them up if you’re new to the game and have basic utensils at home!
One method is using a small to medium size flathead screwdriver. Gently insert in the line where the top and the bottom of the shell meet, twist about 90 degrees and then cut the adductor muscle where the two shells meet. Hint: you may need to put a little elbow grease into it!
Should I Rinse Them Before Frying?
It’s best to clean your oysters under running cold water to remove the dirt before shucking. You can definitely rinse again after shucking. Be sure to note that if you do rinse them, let them drain in a coriander so that they are completely dry allowing the batter to stick better to them.
Do Fried Oysters Taste Like Fried Clams?
You will certainly taste the similarities between fried oysters and fried claims. While they both have that fresh salty taste, fried oysters have a more buttery and smooth taste. Keep in mind that white clams will have a more distinct pungent flavor too.
Are Fried Oysters Healthy?
Oysters are good for you as they are low-calorie and high in micronutrients. according to Healthline. However, deep frying adds extra fat, making them not as healthy as other cooking methods.
How to Serve Fried Oysters?
One of the best ways to serve your fried oysters is with a lemon wedge and your favorite hot sauce. If you’re looking to stick with the fried meal theme, serve them up with french fries.
However, if you’re looking for a healthier option a nice green salad or ceasar salad compliments them well.
Other Seafood Recipes You’ll Like
Fried Oysters Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 dozen raw oysters, approx.
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup flour
- 1/2 cup yellow corn meal
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- vegetable oil, for frying
- lemon, (optional for serving)
Instructions
- Add about 2-inches of oil to a large pot (or a deep fryer) and heat to 350˚F.
- Whisk together flour, yellow corn meal, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl.
- Beat the eggs in a medium mixing bowl.
- Add the oysters to the egg and let them sit for 10-15 minutes.
- Remove the oyster one by one, letting the excess drip off, and dredge through the flour mixture, tapping off the excess.
- Carefully add the oysters in the hot oil in batches. Fry until golden and crisp, about 2-3 minutes. (Make sure to adjust the heat during frying and make sure to keep the temperature between 300-350˚F.)
- Remove the fried oyster to a paper towel-lined plate using a slotted spoon.
- Serve with hot sauce and enjoy! You can sprinkle with more salt and pepper.
Notes
- Adjust the heat during frying and make sure to keep the temperature between 300-350˚F.
- Fried oysters cook fast (about 1-2minutes), so don’t take your eyes off them!
- Drain briefly on a paper towel after frying to rid of any excess oil.
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