Oyster Pie. Mrs. Emma Ogier. Recipe

Recipe: Oyster Pie by Mrs. Emma Ogier

History:
Oyster pie has a long and rich history, dating back to ancient times when oysters were abundant and considered a delicacy in many parts of the world. Oysters have been enjoyed for centuries and were highly prized by civilizations such as the ancient Romans and Greeks. Oyster pie became particularly popular in the United States during the 19th century, when oysters were plentiful along the American coasts. Today, it continues to be a beloved dish, showcasing the rich flavors of oysters in a comforting and satisfying pie.

Fun Facts about Oysters:
1. Oysters are considered aphrodisiacs and have earned a reputation for being romantic.
2. Oysters are filter feeders, meaning they help improve water clarity by removing impurities.
3. The largest oyster ever recorded was found in Chesapeake Bay, measuring a whopping 14 inches in length.
4. Oysters have been a popular street food in New York City since the 19th century, with oyster carts lining the streets.
5. Oysters have different flavors depending on their origin, with each region imparting unique characteristics to the taste.

Ingredients:
- For the crust:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, diced
- 1/2 cup cold milk

- For the filling:
- 1 quart of fresh oysters
- 4 tablespoons milk
- Salt to taste
- Small lumps of butter

- For the gravy:
- Oyster left from the quart
- 1/2 cup water
- Butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Flour
- Milk

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt for the crust. Cut in the cold diced butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

3. Gradually add the cold milk to the flour mixture, mixing until the dough comes together. Knead the dough lightly on a floured surface until smooth.

4. Roll out the dough to fit the bottom and sides of your baking dish.

5. Drain the quart of oysters, reserving the liquid. Set aside six good-sized oysters and place the remaining oysters in the bottom of your prepared baking dish.

6. Sprinkle four tablespoons of milk and salt to taste over the oysters, then dot them with small lumps of butter.

7. Cover the oysters with the rolled-out dough, making sure the dough is about as thick as you would use for a chicken pie. Trim any excess dough and crimp the edges to seal.

8. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake until the crust is golden brown and well done, about 30-35 minutes.

9. While the pie is baking, prepare the gravy. Take the oyster left from the quart and place it in a saucepan. Add half a cup of water, some butter, salt, and pepper to taste.

10. Bring the mixture to a boil, then thicken with a mixture of flour and milk until the desired consistency is reached. Stir constantly to prevent lumps.

11. Once the pie is baked, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool slightly. Serve slices of the oyster pie with the prepared gravy.

Similar recipe dishes:
- Seafood Pot Pie: This dish uses a variety of seafood such as shrimp, crab, and fish, combined with vegetables and topped with a pastry crust.
- Chicken and Mushroom Pie: A classic savory pie that combines tender chicken and earthy mushrooms in a rich and creamy sauce, topped with a flaky pastry crust.
- Shepherd's Pie: A traditional British dish made with minced meat, typically lamb or beef, mixed with vegetables and topped with mashed potatoes before being baked to perfection.

Enjoy the delightful flavors of oyster pie, a timeless dish that celebrates the unique taste of oysters in a comforting and satisfying pie!

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