Sizzling Grilled Oysters with Compound Butter

Transform ordinary oysters into a mouthwatering delicacy with this simple technique for best grilled oysters. A dollop of flavorful compound butter is the secret to elevating these briny bivalves into a truly memorable dish.

Ingredients

• 1 dozen fresh oysters
• 4-5 oz compound butter (garlic-parsley, kimchi, or Parmesan-basil)
• Seaweed or kosher salt, for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with crinkled aluminum foil. This creates little nooks to keep the oysters stable.
2. Shuck the oysters, discarding the top shells. Arrange them on the prepared sheet, nestling each one into the foil to prevent spills.
3. Fire up your grill. For charcoal, light a full chimney and arrange the hot coals on one side. For gas, set half the burners to high. Let the grill preheat for 5-10 minutes.
4. Place the oysters directly over the hot side of the grill. Spoon about 2 teaspoons of your chosen compound butter into each oyster.
5. Close the grill lid and cook until the butter melts and the liquid bubbles vigorously, about 2 minutes. Be careful not to overcook!
6. Transfer the sizzling oysters to a platter lined with seaweed or moistened salt to keep them level. Serve immediately and enjoy the briny, buttery goodness!

Chef’s Tips

• Ask your fishmonger for seaweed to line your serving platter – it’s the perfect natural bed for oysters.
• No seaweed? Create a wet sand effect with moistened kosher salt to stabilize the oysters.
• Experiment with different compound butters to find your favorite flavor combination.
• For large gatherings, pre-top the oysters with butter before grilling to streamline the process.

Whether you’re an oyster aficionado or a curious beginner, these grilled oysters offer a delightful way to savor the taste of the sea. The compound butter adds richness and complexity, while the quick grilling time ensures tender, perfectly cooked oysters every time. Gather your friends, fire up the grill, and get ready for a seafood feast that will transport you straight to the coast!