Mastering the Art of Shucking
How to Open the Perfect Oyster
Shucking an oyster is no easy feat and can certainly seem intimidating, but once you get the hang of it, it becomes second nature. If you’re a beginner, fear not! In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of shucking oysters like a pro. Get ready to impress your friends and elevate your oyster experience to new heights.
1. Gather your tools
You will need an oyster knife, towel or a shucking block, and shucking gloves.
*Safety first! Put your gloves on before starting the process
2. Secure the oyster
Set the oyster cup side down on your towel or in your shucking block. If using a towel, fold it over the oyster leaving the hinge exposed.
3. Insert your knife
Insert the tip of the knife firmly in the hinge and apply gentle pressure until the knife sits securely in the hinge and can be held up on its own - that means you’re in!
4. Twist and pop
While maintaining gentle pressure, twist the knife left to right until you feel the top shell pop from the bottom shell. You don’t need excessive force here - if you push it too hard you’ll most likely break through the bottom shell, or hurt yourself.
5. Free the top shell
Starting from the hinge, slide the knife up the shell to sever the adductor muscle and free the top shell from the oyster.
6. Free the oyster from the bottom shell
Slide the knife under the oyster to cut the other side of the adductor muscle to free the oyster from the shell. Be careful not to spill the precious liquor in this step
7. Inspect & plate
Before enjoying your perfectly shucked oyster, take a moment to inspect it. Look for any shell fragments or debris and remove them carefully. If the opened oysters will be sitting out for more than 10-15 minutes, consider serving them on a bed of crushed ice. Otherwise a regular plate will be fine (we find they don’t last long once they’re shucked anyways)
8. Slurp ‘em down
Add your favorite accoutrement to the oyster, pair with a beverage of your choice, and slurp them down!
The ability to effortlessly shuck an oyster is an impressive skill to have, but be warned: once you know how to shuck, you’ll always be the go-to person at any party to open the oysters.
Missing a tool? Check out our shop for everything you need to shuck an oyster. We have a range of tools including oyster knives , shucking blocks, towels, gloves, and most importantly, all the oysters you could possibly want to open in the comfort of your home. Pro tip - the Oyster Party Kit makes a great gift!
