Consuming an oyster is one failsafe way to enjoy the raw bar. When you go to a raw bar for the first time and have no prior experience with oysters, it can be frightening to place an order because you won’t know where to begin. In this article, you will get to know how to enjoy the raw bar by eating oysters.
TIPS ON HOW TO ENJOY YOUR OYSTER
ORDER A VARIETY
An oyster’s flavor can change significantly depending on the conditions under which it was cultivated. Even oysters of the same species can have a remarkable variety of flavors. Comparing and contrasting different oysters is the best way to explore the incredible variety of available oysters. Relax and take pleasure in the experience; you will be astounded by the variances between the oysters.
Also, if you can’t see the oysters being shucked at a raw bar, you should never order them. Some restaurants still shuck the oysters ahead of time and then let them sit. The oysters will get drier due to this, and it also raises the risk of food illness. You should only place an order at a raw bar if the oysters can be seen to be chilled.
FIRST THE OYSTER ITSELF, THEN THE CONDIMENTS.
Try an oyster on its own without any condiments. Savor the singular flavor profile that oysters may express, which can include hints of cream or cucumber, brine, and minerals. After that, feel free to experiment to your heart’s content with any sauces or seasonings that strike your fancy.
EAT LIKE A PRO
Use your dainty fork to give the oyster a little bit of a jiggle to ensure that it has detached while it sits in the liquid that fills the other half of its shell. Then you should put down your fork, pick up the shell, and slurp down the oyster from the broad end. Before you swallow the fish, make sure you’ve given it at least a couple of good chews. Consider an oyster to be similar to a grape in that you won’t fully appreciate its flavor unless you chew it first.
SERVE WITH A GLASS OF WINE
The right beer or wine can perfectly accent the flavors in your oysters, whether you choose a dry white wine like a Sancerre or a stout with a sweeter, buttery oyster from a lower salinity region. The key is to choose the beverage that best complements the oysters’ natural characteristics. Experiment with a variety of pairings until you find your go-to oyster and beverage combination.
