I’m not a fan of raw oysters (lord knows I’ve tried many times). I prefer mine cooked or smoked and these grilled oysters with tarragon butter are absolutely de-lish! They’re about as close to raw as I’ll ever get! And, if you’re like me, shucking oysters take a bit of practice before getting the hang of it.
Mr. S. loves raw oysters so I will shuck for him…ain’t love grand! When oysters are cooked in their shells on the barbecue, the heat from the grill steams the oysters and pops the shells open, while poaching the oysters inside. This recipe is where I happily announce I have slurped down an oyster!
Serves 2
12 oysters
1/2 cup butter, room temperature
1/2 teaspoon Tabasco sauce (more if you like it hot!)
1 tablespoon tarragon leaves, chopped
sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
To make the tarragon butter, combine all ingredients (except the oysters) in a small bowl. Season with salt and pepper.
Fire up the barbeque. Wash the shells and place oysters (cup side on bottom as shown in above photo) on the barbeque. Lower barbeque lid and cook 8 to 10 minutes, or longer depending on oyster size. Carefully remove the oysters – you don’t want to spill the natural poaching liquid. The shells should have opened a bit so pry the rest of the way open with an oyster knife or screwdriver.
Cut the muscle that connect the shells, leaving the oyster on the half shell. Take a teaspoon of the tarragon butter and place on each oyster. Return the oysters to the grill, lower the lid and cook until the butter is melted and the oysters are hot, about 1 minute. Serve immediately.
The Culinary Chase’s Note: Use the grooves of the grill to help keep the oysters level. Oven mitts or a potholder works well when opening the oysters. Serve with a lovely glass of chardonnay. Enjoy!
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