The Best Homemade Oyster Stew Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade oyster stew recipe is simple to make yet feels incredibly special, perfect for cozy nights or impressing guests. You’ll love how quickly it comes together, and the rich, creamy broth is pure comfort in a bowl. * The fresh oysters add a briny, savory flavor that’s balanced beautifully with the smooth texture of the stew. * It’s a versatile dish that can be dressed up or down, making it great for any occasion. * Plus, it’s a timeless classic that brings a touch of nostalgia to your table.
Recipe
Indulge in a creamy and comforting bowl of homemade oyster stew, a classic dish that’s perfect for seafood lovers. This simple recipe highlights the natural brininess of oysters while delivering a rich and velvety texture.
Ingredients:
- 1 pint fresh oysters (with their liquor)
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Call or cap the ingredients to make it more or less
Instructions:
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and celery, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the bay leaf and oysters (with their liquor) to the pot. Cook gently for about 3-5 minutes, or until the edges of the oysters begin to curl.
- Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly to combine. Heat the mixture until it’s warm but not boiling, about 5 minutes.
- Season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir well and remove the bay leaf.
- Serve the stew hot, garnished with a sprinkle of paprika if desired.
Notes:
- Use fresh oysters for the best flavor. If unavailable, high-quality canned oysters can be substituted.
- Avoid boiling the stew to prevent curdling the milk and cream.
Equipment:
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Time:
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Cuisine: American
Serving: 4
This oyster stew is a timeless dish that’s both elegant and easy to prepare, making it ideal for a cozy dinner or a special occasion.
Nutrition
Oyster stew is a hearty and nutritious dish, rich in essential vitamins and minerals. Here’s a breakdown of its nutritional content per serving (approximately 1 cup):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Protein | 15 g |
| Fat | 12 g |
| Carbohydrates | 18 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Cholesterol | 80 mg |
| Sodium | 800 mg |
| Vitamin A | 15% DV |
| Vitamin C | 10% DV |
| Calcium | 20% DV |
| Iron | 12% DV |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my oyster stew with crusty bread for dipping, and a crisp green salad adds a fresh contrast. The bread soaks up the creamy broth, while the salad keeps things light and balanced. It’s a simple combo, but trust me, it makes the meal feel extra special.
Crusty Bread
There’s something incredibly satisfying about dipping a warm, crusty piece of bread into a bowl of creamy oyster stew, don’t you think? A good bread pairing can elevate the meal, and I always reach for a loaf with a crispy exterior and soft, chewy inside. Bread dipping is my favorite part—the way it soaks up all the rich, savory flavors is pure comfort. I love a rustic sourdough or a hearty baguette, but honestly, any crusty bread works wonders. It’s simple, yet it completes the dish in a way that feels just right.
Green Salad
A fresh green salad is the perfect way to balance the richness of homemade oyster stew, adding a light and crisp element to the meal. I love using a mix of greens like spinach, arugula, and romaine, along with fresh ingredients like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and thinly sliced radishes. A healthy dressing, like a simple lemon vinaigrette or balsamic glaze, ties it all together without overwhelming the flavors. It’s easy to toss together while the stew simmers, and it feels like a small victory to have something so vibrant on the table. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in extra veggies!
