Oyster Fritters

Use high-quality, fresh oysters for the best flavor.

Keep the frying oil at a consistent temperature. This helps keep the fritters from becoming greasy.

Try adding a dash of Old Bay seasoning to the batter for a classic seafood flavor.

Try adding different herbs such as thyme or dill.

Make sure your oil is deep enough to fully submerge the fritters for best results.

Serve immediately after frying for the best texture.

Garnish the fritters with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or other herbs before serving.

What are oyster fritters?

Oyster fritters are deep-fried batter cakes made with chopped oysters, flour, and various seasonings and vegetables, resulting in a crispy exterior and a tender, flavorful interior.

How do I shuck oysters?

To shuck oysters, carefully insert an oyster knife into the hinge of the shell, twisting to pry it open. Run the knife along the top shell to cut the muscle attaching the oyster, then remove the top shell and cut the meat from the bottom shell. Always wear a protective glove and cover the oyster with a towel for safety. You can purchase pre-shucked oysters at most larger grocery stores or fish markets.

Can I use canned oysters instead of fresh ones?

You can use canned oysters as a substitute. However, they may not provide the same freshness or brininess as fresh oysters.

What can I substitute for shortening for frying?

You can substitute vegetable oil or lard for shortening. For a healthier option, use canola or peanut oil, but keep in mind that this may slightly alter the taste.

How can I adjust the spice level in the fritters?

To increase the spice level, you can add more Tabasco sauce or include diced jalapenos or other spicy peppers to the batter. Alternatively, for milder flavors, reduce or omit the hot sauce.

What if I don't have fresh parsley?

If you don't have fresh parsley, you can substitute it with dried parsley (use about 1 tablespoon), or use other fresh herbs like cilantro, chives, or green onions.

How thick should the batter be?

The batter should be thick enough to hold its shape when dropped into the hot oil but not so thick that it becomes dry. It should easily fall from a spoon in a clump. Adjust with flour or milk as needed for the right consistency.

Can I bake oyster fritters instead of frying them?

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F, place the fritters on a greased or parchment lined baking sheet, and bake until golden, flipping halfway through. However, they will not be as crispy as fried fritters and they will not be as thick (they will spread more than fritters that are fried).

How do I know when the oil is hot enough for frying?

You can test the oil's readiness by dropping a small amount of batter into the oil. If it sizzles and rises to the surface quickly, the oil is hot enough. Alternatively, you can use a thermometer; it should read around 365 degrees F.

Can I add other ingredients to the fritters?

You can add ingredients like corn, bell peppers, or herbs. Just be cautious not to add too much moisture or it may affect the batter's consistency.

How should I store leftover oyster fritters?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To keep them from getting soggy, place a paper towel at the bottom of the container to absorb excess moisture.

How do I reheat the fritters?

You can reheat them in an oven or air fryer preheated to 350 degrees F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as this will make them soggy.

Can I freeze oyster fritters?

You can freeze cooked oyster fritters. Allow them to cool completely, separate them with parchment paper in an airtight container, and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen in the oven for the best texture.

What types of dipping sauces work well with oyster fritters?

Popular options include tartar sauce, remoulade, ranch dressing, and sriracha mayo.

Deep Skillet or Deep Fryer: For heating the shortening to 365 degrees F and frying the oyster fritters until they are golden brown and cooked through. A deep skillet can be used if a deep fryer is unavailable. Deep fryers provide more consistent temperature control but tend to be a bit messier to use.

Measuring Cups and Spoons: For measuring out ingredients including flour, salt, parsley, milk, and other components of the batter.

Mixing Bowl: A medium to large bowl is needed to combine the chopped oysters, flour, salt, onion, celery, parsley, bell pepper, milk, Tabasco, and Worcestershire sauce into a thick batter.

Slotted Spoon: Used for removing the fritters from the hot oil once they are browned, allowing excess grease to drain away.

Paper Towels: Important for draining the fried oyster fritters after they are removed from the skillet.

Spoon or Ice Cream Scoop: Helpful for dropping spoonfuls of the oyster batter into the hot grease, keeping the size equal so they cook more evenly.

Cooking Thermometer: Optional, but recommended for monitoring the oil temperature if using a skillet rather than a deep fryer (assuming the deep fryer has an automatic temperature control).

Knife: For shucking and chopping the oysters, as well as finely chopping the onion, celery, and bell pepper.

Cutting Board: A stable surface for preparing the ingredients.

Tartar Sauce: A spicy wasabi tartar sauce contrasts nicely with the savory notes of the oyster fritters.

Sriracha Mayo: This spicy dipping sauce adds a kick that complements the briny flavor of the oysters.

Ranch Dressing: The cool and herby flavor of ranch dressing can provide a fun twist, offering a familiar taste that balances the richness of the fritters.

Remoulade: This zesty sauce with its bold flavors pairs well to enhance the oceanic taste of the oysters.

Coleslaw: A fresh, crisp coleslaw can provide a crunchy texture that contrasts with the fritters.

Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon over the fritters brightens the flavors and adds a citrusy zing.

Crispy Fried Green Tomatoes: Tangy bites of fried green tomatoes add a satisfying crunch and acidity that pairs well with the fritters.

Cornbread: Sweet cornbread can introduce a deliciously sweet element that balances the savory fritters.

Garlic Aioli: A smooth, garlicky aioli adds a luxurious touch and a rich flavor that complements the fritters.