Antoine’s Oyster Stew

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This classic recipe is sure to warm the cockles of your heart.

Course Soup

Keyword oysters

Cook Time 30

Servings

Ingredients

50 medium Mahurangi Oysters shucked with 1 cup of the liquor reserved
1 cup water
12 tablespoons unsalted butter about ¾ cup or 170gm
5 tablespoons all-purpose flour about ⅓ cup or 40gm
4 stalks of celery finely chopped
4 cloves of garlic peeled and minced
1 onion peeled and finely chopped
½ cup finely chopped parsley
1 tablespoon salt
1 ½ teaspoons freshly cracked black pepper
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
2 cups whole milk
2 cups heavy cream

Instructions

Combine oyster liquor and water in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
Allow the liquid to come to a simmer then add the oysters and cook until their edges begin to curl, about 2 minutes.
Strain the oysters over a medium size bowl. Reserve oysters and cooking liquid separately.
Melt the butter in a large saucepan on medium-high heat.
Once the butter begins to foam, add the flour and cook, whisking constantly, until golden brown, about 3–4 minutes.
Reduce heat to medium-low. Then add celery, garlic, onions, parsley, salt, pepper, and cayenne.
Cook, stirring frequently, until onions and celery are very soft, about 20 minutes.
Stir in milk, cream, and reserved oysters with their cooking liquid and cook, stirring occasionally, until just hot, about 5 minutes.
One website says, “when the milk bubbles and edges of the oysters ruffle like the hem of a wave sliding up on a beach, the stew is ready to eat”.
Serve immediately alongside crusty bread.

Notes

One expert claims that

oyster stew should be served so piping hot that you blow on it between bites. Those pauses will make us all focus on the gift we’re eating and ensure we don’t just slurp it for granted.

In the United States, particularly in the southern states, this scrumptious stew is traditionally served at Christmas. In New Zealand, we prefer it as a cosy winter treat or a dish to impress your guests.

So, embrace the magic of oysters and celebrate the joy of winter feasting! Remember to always use fresh, high-quality oysters for the best results. Enjoy!