Scalloped Oysters Recipe

Scalloped oysters is a classic dish that combines the briny and delicate flavors of oysters with a rich and flavorful breadcrumb topping. This dish has a long history and is believed to have originated in the United States in the early 19th century. It was especially popular in coastal regions where oysters were plentiful.

Fun Fact: Did you know that scalloped oysters were considered a luxury dish during the Victorian era? Oysters were seen as a symbol of wealth and were often associated with extravagant meals.

Now let's dive into the recipe for making delicious scalloped oysters:

Ingredients:
- 50 fresh oysters
- Fine, dried crumbs
- Pepper and salt
- Butter
- Strained oyster liquor
- Sweet milk

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a baking dish with butter or cooking spray.

2. Start by shucking the fresh oysters. Carefully remove the oysters from their shells, taking care to collect any oyster liquor that may come out.

3. Take a layer of the shucked oysters and place them in the prepared baking dish. Make sure to arrange them evenly to ensure every bite has a fair share of oysters.

4. Next, sprinkle a layer of fine, dried crumbs over the layer of oysters. These crumbs should be well seasoned with pepper and salt to add flavor to the dish. You can also add small bits of butter on top of the crumbs to enhance the richness.

5. Repeat the layering process of oysters, crumbs, and butter until the baking dish is about two-thirds full. The exact number of layers will depend on the size of your dish and oysters, but aim for a good balance of oysters and breadcrumbs.

6. For the top layer, create a thick layer of breadcrumbs dotted with bits of butter. This will create a tasty and crispy crust for your scalloped oysters.

7. In a small bowl, combine the strained oyster liquor with the sweet milk. The oyster liquor adds an intense briny flavor while the sweet milk balances it out with a touch of creaminess.

8. Slowly pour the oyster liquor and sweet milk mixture over the assembled layers in the baking dish. This will help moisten the dish and bind the flavors together.

9. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the oysters are cooked through. Keep an eye on the dish while baking to ensure it doesn't burn.

Once cooked, remove the scalloped oysters from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving. This dish is best enjoyed hot and makes for a fantastic appetizer or main course.

Similar recipes that you may enjoy are the classic Oysters Rockefeller, which features oysters topped with a mixture of herbs, bread crumbs, and butter, then baked until golden and bubbling. Another popular variation is Oysters Kilpatrick, where oysters are cooked with Worcestershire sauce, bacon, and cheese.

Scalloped oysters are a true delight for seafood lovers. The combination of succulent oysters, seasoned breadcrumbs, and rich butter creates a dish that is both indulgent and comforting. Whether you serve them as an appetizer at a dinner party or as a special entree, scalloped oysters are sure to impress!