To eat oysters like a pro, follow these steps:
- Loosen the oyster : Use a small fork to gently detach the oyster meat from the shell so it slides out smoothly
- Keep the oyster liquor : Do not drain the liquid (called oyster liquor) from the shell; it enhances the flavor and should be consumed along with the oyster
- Tip and slurp : Raise the shell to your lips and tip it back to slide the oyster and its liquor into your mouth
- Chew, don’t swallow whole : Chewing the oyster allows you to savor its full flavor profile rather than just swallowing it whole
- Discard the empty shell properly : Place the empty shell face down on the plate or ice it was served on
- Optional condiments : A small squeeze of lemon juice is fine, but avoid heavy sauces to let the oyster’s natural taste shine
If you are new to oysters or dislike the texture, you can start with cooked oysters, such as baked with cream and herbs, which can be more approachable
. In summary, loosen the oyster, enjoy it with its liquor, chew to appreciate flavor, and discard the shell neatly. This technique will help you eat oysters confidently and enjoyably
