Description
Oyster Stew is a creamy, comforting dish featuring fresh oysters in a rich, buttery broth. This classic recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or a holiday gathering, bringing out the delicate flavor of the oysters with the warmth of the broth.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pint fresh oysters, shucked (reserve the oyster liquor)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon white pepper (or black pepper)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon hot sauce (optional, for a kick)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon sherry or white wine (optional, for added depth)
- Crusty bread, for serving
Instructions
- In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and celery, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in the milk and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer over medium-low heat, but do not let it boil.
- Add the reserved oyster liquor (the liquid from the oysters), salt, white pepper, thyme, and hot sauce (if using). Stir and continue to simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Carefully add the fresh oysters to the pot and simmer for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the oysters are just cooked through. Do not overcook.
- If using, stir in sherry or white wine for extra depth of flavor.
- Remove from heat and ladle the stew into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with crusty bread for dipping.
Notes
- For a richer stew, you can substitute part of the milk with more heavy cream.
- Feel free to add a bit of grated Parmesan or a squeeze of lemon juice for an extra touch of flavor.
- If you don’t have fresh oysters, you can substitute with jarred oysters, but the flavor will be less delicate.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 290 kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 80mg