Where I’m Eating: S. S. Shucking

I cannot teach you how to shuck an oyster but I know someone who can. Nationally Ranked Oyster Shucker Gardner Douglas stopped by to give me a quick oyster lesson. He demonstrates how to perfectly shuck an oyster, how to recognize a fresh oyster, and most importantly, how to eat an oyster. 

I was not always an oyster lover. I tried them a few years back and now they’re my new favorite for happy hour. I can eat them raw or cooked. If you go for cooked, you must have them grilled. Mostly, I eat them raw with a dash of hot sauce or tabasco.

Going out is my jam but if you’ve ever wondered how to shuck your own oysters I’ve got the run down.

How to Perfectly Shuck an Oyster

This is probably best left to professionals but guess what I’m still giving it a try, and you can too. Oysters can be slippery but all you have to do is get your oyster knife, find a good spot, and dig in. You can actually go in through the lip of the oyster or the back. Wiggle your knife and apply some pressure. Be sure to disconnect your oyster from the shell, and discard any loose shell.

We have a couple oyster knives at home. We are able to get fresh oysters at the local DC Wharf, Wegmans, or Whole Foods. If you don’t feel like giving it a stab yourself you can find the Oyster Ninja, Gardner,at a local bar or restaurant shucking fresh oysters. 

Recognizing a Fresh Oyster and How to Eat It

Have you ever seen someone slurp an oyster down their throat? Well I like to taste my food and the Oyster Ninja agrees with me. The best way to determine whether  your oyster is fresh is to actually chew it, like any other food. As you chew you have a chance to taste the flavor of the oyster. Before you chew, give them a sniff. If the smell isn’t pleasant, it won’t be pleasant when it hits your stomach. Have a great oyster experience by making sure your oysters are fresh.

A native of Virginia, you can find Gardener shucking all across the DC area. If you’re a true oyster lover join his Oyster Meetup Group to keep up with all of his oyster events. My favorite is his happy hours, reasonably priced, fresh oysters.

Follow Flights and Foods and Gardner on Instagram for a chance to win these Shooting Point hats.