The entire process of opening an oyster will consist of the following main steps:
1. Prepare the oysters first. Remember that only fresh specimens can be eaten. The flaps of a high-quality shell must be closed. If they are slightly open, then the oyster, most likely, has already died. Consuming such a product can be hazardous to your health. Fresh oysters exude a pleasant salty-sweet marine scent.
2. Prepare all the necessary tools. You will need:
– hard brush for cleaning sinks;
– household gloves;
– a special knife for oysters. It can be replaced with a simple knife with a thin blade. The main thing is that the knife is strong enough and does not break during operation;
– a lot of ice.
3. Since the shells of mollusks have rather sharp edges, put on tight gloves before starting work. Use a brush to clean the sink from dirt. Then rinse it in clean water.
4. Place the oyster in the palm of your hand with the cupped side down. Move the curved side of the clam closer to your fingers. Insert the knife instead of closing the flaps and slowly move it from the bottom to the top.
At the very end, you should hear a light pop. Next, make rotational movements with the knife. This must be done until the upper sash separates from the lower. During operation, be extremely careful not to allow the knife to slip. Try not to break the flaps.
Small pieces that have broken off can get caught in the dish, be careful. Do not overturn open shells to avoid spilling oyster juice, which has a unique flavor and aroma.
5. Using a knife, separate the remaining meat from the upper flap and transfer it to the lower one. Examine the oyster for small shell fragments. Spread the finished clams over a large platter filled with ice. They should be served with slices of fresh lemon.
The video below will help you finally figure out how to open an oyster. You can see for yourself the simplicity of this process.