Fried oysters are one favorite to order when we eat out. Something about those crunchy-on-the-outside, silky-on-the-inside bite-sized morsels makes me feel fancy. But there’s no reason to save oysters just for special occasions. And you can throw fried oysters together at home lightning-quick for a fraction of the price! They’re a tasty treat, but you can also serve them as a stylish appetizer or an unexpected element in a salad or sandwich. I love treating my loved ones to this 5-star dining experience in the comfort of our home!
Recipe Ingredients
How to Make Fried Oysters
Clean – Carefully pick out oysters and make sure there are no pieces of shell. Place the oysters in a strainer and rinse them with fresh tap water. Let them drain for a few minutes. Liquid Ingredients – Add milk, egg, and hot sauce in a medium bowl. Whisk well until fully combined. Add oysters to the bowl, sprinkle with half the salt and pepper, and gently stir to completely coat the oysters. Then let them set to soak up the flavors for 10-15 minutes. Breading – In a medium bowl, add flour, cornmeal, Creole seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and the remaining salt and pepper. Mix well until fully combined. Drain Oysters – Take the oysters out of the marinade one at a time, and shake them gently to remove any excess liquid. Coat – Roll the oysters in the flour mixture, ensuring they are completely covered. Rest – Place the floured oysters on a tray and let them rest for 5-10 minutes. Heat Oil – While the breaded oysters are resting, pour your oil into a deep frying pan or skillet until there’s about an inch of oil. Heat it on the stovetop until it reaches 350°F/175°C. Fry – Carefully put one oyster at a time into the hot oil to fry (don’t overcrowd the pan). A splatter screen will help prevent the oil from spattering. Fry the oysters until golden brown, flipping them over once using a tong to cook both sides evenly (2-3 minutes on each side). Drain – Once done, transfer fried oysters to a paper-towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve – Garnish your fried oysters with fresh minced chives and enjoy them with your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy!
Recipe Variations
Tips and Tricks
Make-Ahead Instructions
Fried oysters are at their finest right out of the frying pan! But since oysters cook quickly, I like to have a few things prepared before frying. Preparing the paper-towel lined platter for draining along with the serving platter helps me get the oysters from the kitchen to the dining room hot and fresh!
Serving and Storage Instructions
Fried oysters can be served with wedges of fresh lemon and your favorite dipping sauces! Leftovers last refrigerated in an airtight container for three days. And for easy reheating, place them on a baking tray at 350℉/177℃ for a few minutes in the oven until heated through or air fryer for 3-5 minutes.
What to Serve With Fried Oysters
Fried oysters are delicious dipped in a tangy remoulade or homemade BBQ sauce. Or make an out-of-this-world seafood platter by pairing them with bacon-wrapped shrimp or smoked lobster tail.
More Scrumptious Seafood Recipes to Try
Conclusion
A restaurant-worthy meal that delivers big on flavor and will have you raking in the compliments! Do you prefer serving fried oysters as an appetizer or a main course? Comment below and let me know! 😉
