Description
Oyster Stew is a classic coastal dish featuring fresh oysters gently simmered in a buttery, creamy broth. It’s rich, briny, and comforting—perfect for holidays, special occasions, or a cozy night in.
Ingredients
- 1 pint fresh shucked oysters with their liquor
- 3 cups whole milk or half-and-half
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional, for extra richness)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 rib celery, finely chopped
- 1 small onion or shallot, finely chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce (optional)
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)
- Oyster crackers or crusty bread (for serving)
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add celery and onion or shallot. Cook until softened, about 4–5 minutes.
- Add the oyster liquor and bring to a gentle simmer. Reduce slightly for 3–4 minutes.
- Stir in milk and optional cream. Heat gently over low heat—do not let it boil.
- Once hot, add oysters. Simmer just until the edges curl, about 2–3 minutes.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and cayenne or hot sauce if using.
- Ladle into bowls, garnish with parsley or chives, and serve with crackers or bread.
Notes
- Oysters are done as soon as their edges curl—avoid overcooking.
- Keep heat low when adding dairy to prevent curdling.
- The stew is best enjoyed fresh, as reheating can toughen oysters.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
