Oysters | How to Eat Raw Oysters
Oysters have long been surrounded by myths, particularly their reputation as aphrodisiacs. While these tales may stem from folklore, they were taken quite seriously in history.
The Romans believed oysters could remedy various sexual issues, and the famous Italian adventurer Giacomo Casanova often mentioned them in his memoirs, Histoire de ma vie (Story of my Life).
Considered a delicacy, oysters are thought to capture the essence of the sea. However, if you're new to this culinary experience, it might seem a bit daunting. Here’s a simple guide on how to enjoy raw oysters.
How to Eat Raw Oysters?
The great news is that there’s no wrong way to eat an oyster, as long as you remove it from its shell! Typically, oysters are served with a small fork. Hold the oyster and gently use the fork to detach the flesh from the shell. If a fork isn’t available, your finger will do just fine.
Grasp the oyster by its broader side and tilt it into your mouth from the narrower end for an easier experience. There’s a common myth that oysters should be swallowed whole without chewing, but we suggest otherwise. You won’t fully appreciate their delicate flavor unless you take the time to savor it!
Raw oysters are often accompanied by a light dressing or sauce, though many prefer them plain. If you choose to add a dressing, use it sparingly to enhance the flavor rather than overpower it. A good oyster should appear opaque and contain seawater in its shell, while a translucent oyster in a dry shell indicates it may not have been well-fed. It should also be plump within its shell.
While many people cherish raw oysters for their subtle taste, it’s important to be aware of potential health risks. The FDA warns that raw oysters can harbor bacteria, specifically vibrio vulnificus, which can lead to infections and, in some cases, be fatal. Therefore, it’s advisable for individuals with weakened immune systems, pregnant women, and children to avoid consuming raw oysters. [1]
Nutritional Information of Oysters
- calories: 81 kilocalories
- protein: 9.45 g
- fats: 2.30 g
- carbohydrates: 4.95 g
- zinc: 16.6 milligrams (mg)
- copper: 1.58 mg or 176% of a person’s daily value (DV)
- vitamin B12: 16 micrograms (667% of DV)
- iron: 5.11 mg (28% of DV)
- magnesium: 22 mg (5% of DV)
- potassium: 168 mg (4% of DV)
- selenium: 77 mcg (140% of DV)
Calories in Raw Oysters
According to the USDA, a medium-sized raw oyster (about 50 grams) contains 69 calories and has 4 grams of carbohydrates. It's recognized as one of the healthiest protein sources, offering 8 grams of protein while being low in fat (under 2 grams).
An article in The Washington Post highlighted it as one of the top animal proteins for health. Oysters are also an excellent source of zinc; just a couple of medium-sized oysters can fulfill the daily zinc requirement for men, while women only need one.
This high zinc content contributes to the belief that oysters are aphrodisiacs, as studies in animals suggest they may enhance reproductive health and alleviate sexual dysfunction in men. Additionally, oysters are packed with other essential minerals and vitamins, including selenium, vitamin B12, and iron. [3] [4] [5] [6]
Oysters Vs Clams
Oysters and clams are often mistaken for one another due to their similarities, as both belong to the Mollusc family and are bivalves. However, they differ significantly in their anatomy, uses, and behavior.
After their initial weeks of life, oysters remain fixed in one location, while clams are mobile and search for food. Clams possess a foot for movement, whereas oysters only have a foot during their early life stages.
The shells of clams are typically smoother and shinier compared to the rougher texture of oyster shells. Oysters thrive in marine or brackish waters, while clams are found in freshwater environments. Additionally, oysters are known for producing pearls, a feature that clams lack, and their anatomical structures are distinct from one another.
Can you Freeze Oysters?
The National Center for Home Food Preservation recommends that live oysters in their shells should be kept alive for preservation. Simply clean the shells well and store them in moisture-barrier bags. However, this method can take up a lot of space in your freezer.
To optimize space, consider washing and shucking the oysters instead. You can find detailed instructions in our article on How To Cook Oysters & 5 Easy Recipes. After shucking, drain the oysters and save the liquid. You might want to rinse the meat to eliminate any dirt or grit.
Place the oysters in a freezer bag along with the reserved liquid, ensuring you leave about half an inch of headspace. Remember, frozen oysters won’t have the same flavor as fresh ones, so they’re best suited for dishes like stews or casseroles. [7]