Southern Fried Oysters
These perfectly crispy fried oysters deliver restaurant-quality results at home with a simple seasoned coating that lets the briny sweetness of fresh oysters shine through. Ready in just minutes, they make an impressive appetizer or main dish that captures the essence of Southern coastal cooking.
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Servings: 4
Calories: 180kcal
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup fine breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
- 1/8 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
- 1 dozen fresh oysters shucked and drained
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Pour vegetable oil to a depth of 3 inches in a heavy Dutch oven and heat over medium-high heat to 350°F.
- Combine breadcrumbs, flour, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper in a shallow bowl.
- Dredge oysters in the seasoned mixture, coating completely on all sides.
- Fry oysters in batches until golden brown, 3-4 minutes per batch.
- Remove oysters and drain on paper towels.
- Serve immediately while hot and crispy.
Notes
Use a thermometer to maintain oil temperature at 350°F for the best crispiness
Don't overcrowd the pot - fry in small batches to prevent temperature drops
Pat oysters dry before coating for better adhesion of the breading
Panko breadcrumbs can be substituted for extra crunch
For extra flavor, add 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder to the coating mixture
Serve with cocktail sauce, tartar sauce, or lemon wedges
Best consumed immediately as coating loses crispiness when stored
Nutrition
Calories: 180kcal | Carbohydrates: 14g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 45mg | Sodium: 680mg | Potassium: 220mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g