Simple Carolina Oyster Stew
Oyster stew has long been a favorite in the Carolinas. Often this stew is made with few ingredients, highlighting basic flavors with its simplicity. Believed to be a creation of Irish Immigrants to the Carolinas, this milky concoction brings warmth and confort during the colder months in the Carolinas.
Ingredients
3 tbsp butter
1tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 cup milk
1 cup half and half
1 pint oysters and oyster liquor (What’s This?) 1/4 cup clam juice or chicken stock can be substituted
Oyster crackers
Hardware
Medium pot
Rubber spatula
Directions
Partially melt butter in the medium pot.
Add oysters and oyster liquor.
(If you don’t have oyster liquor use 1/3 clam juice or chicken stock).
Bring to a light simmer.
Continue to simmer until oysters start to curl on their edges.
Then add the milk, cream, salt and pepper.
Bring to a light boil while frequently “wiping” the edges and bottom of the pot with the spatula to mix in thickened cream and milk.
Reduce heat to low once it begins to boil.
Plating
Ladle into bowls with even amounts of oysters.
Top with oyster crackers
Serve immediately, preferably in warmed bowls.
