Classic Oyster Stew

🕒 Prep: 10 min
🔥 Cook: 20 min
🍽 Serves: 4
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This classic oyster stew is a heartwarming bowl of creamy goodness that celebrates the rich flavors of fresh oysters. Perfect for chilly evenings, this dish brings a touch of coastal magic to your table. Let's dive into the simplicity and elegance of this timeless recipe.

Ingredients for Classic Oyster Stew

Butter forms the base of the stew, providing richness and a silky texture. Onion and celery add depth and a hint of sweetness, enhancing the savory profile. The combination of whole milk and heavy cream creates a luxurious, creamy broth that carries the flavors beautifully. Oysters, with their natural liquor, are the star of the show, offering a briny, oceanic essence. A sprinkle of salt and white pepper seasons the stew lightly, while fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh, herbal note.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use fresh oysters for the best flavor, but if unavailable, high-quality canned oysters can work in a pinch.
  • Keep the heat at medium to avoid curdling the milk and cream.
  • For a thicker stew, prepare a roux by combining equal parts butter and flour before adding the milk and cream.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this oyster stew with a warm, crusty baguette to soak up the creamy broth. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette complements the rich flavors beautifully. For a cozy dinner, serve it with a chilled glass of crisp white wine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
Yes, you can use half-and-half for a lighter version, but it may not be as rich and creamy.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently over low heat to avoid curdling.

Classic Oyster Stew Recipe Walkthrough

Start by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat. As the butter melts, it should sizzle gently, creating a fragrant base for your vegetables. Add the chopped onion and celery, and sauté them until they're soft and translucent. This should take about 5 minutes and will fill your kitchen with a delightful aroma.

Once your vegetables are ready, pour in the whole milk and heavy cream. Stir gently to combine everything into a smooth, creamy base. Be careful not to let the mixture boil; you want it to remain at a gentle simmer.

Now, add the oysters along with their liquor. This is where the magic happens. As you stir them into the creamy broth, season with salt and white pepper. Let the stew cook for about 5-7 minutes. You'll know it's ready when the edges of the oysters begin to curl slightly.

Remove the pot from heat and stir in the fresh parsley. Let the stew sit for a minute to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully. Serve it hot, and get ready to enjoy a comforting bowl of oyster stew.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick to prepare — enjoy a gourmet meal in under 30 minutes.
  • Rich, comforting flavors that balance perfectly.
  • Simple ingredients with a sophisticated taste.
  • Great way to enjoy fresh seafood without fuss.

Ingredients

1 pint fresh oysters
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 cup whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp ground white pepper
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 medium onion, finely chopped
1 stalk celery, finely chopped

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and celery, sauté until soft and translucent.
3. Pour in the whole milk and heavy cream, stirring gently to combine.
4. Add the oysters with their liquor, and season with salt and white pepper.
5. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the edges of the oysters begin to curl.
6. Remove from heat, stir in fresh parsley, and let the stew sit for a minute to enhance the flavors.
7. Serve hot with crusty bread.

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