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by The Team
There’s a reason the sauce is at the centre.
Enthusiasts agree—oysters have a unique flavour profile that truly captivates the palate. They take the gastronomic experience up a notch when paired with a tangy sauce. But what is the best sauce for oysters?
Let’s discuss the nuances of oyster pairings, focusing on the classic mignonette sauce and exploring a range of delectable options.
Fresh oysters hold a special place in the hearts of the most discerning seafood lovers. The joy of savouring a fresh, briny oyster, coupled with a nice accompaniment, is exceptional. One of the classic and widely appreciated choices is the mignonette sauce.
Creamy and plump with a clean finish: Check out these Sydney rock oysters (medium) from Manettas.
Mignonette sauce, a name that may sound fancy, is a simple yet elegant accompaniment for oysters. This sauce provides a delightful contrast to the creamy texture of freshly shucked oysters.
Creating the perfect mignonette sauce requires a careful selection of ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
These simple components come together to create a flavour that beautifully complements the taste of oysters.
Making a mignonette sauce is easy. In a small bowl, combine equal parts red wine vinegar and finely minced shallots. Add a pinch of freshly ground black pepper to taste. Give it a little stir, and voila—you have a mignonette sauce ready to accompany your oysters.
Elevate the taste of these Pacific oysters (medium) with your choice of sauce.
Some oyster eaters prefer a generous spoonful on each half shell, while others opt for a more restrained drizzle. It’s really just a matter of personal preference!
While the mignonette sauce is a timeless choice, the options for oyster sauces are varied. Here are seven tantalising options to explore:
A classic among oyster accompaniments, cocktail sauce stands out for its bold and tangy flavours. The combination of horseradish, ketchup and fresh lemon juice creates a zesty profile that perfectly complements the brininess of oysters.
Simply mix together half a cup of ketchup, two tablespoons of prepared horseradish and a tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice. Adjust the horseradish quantity based on your spice preference. This sauce is quick to prepare and also adds a vibrant kick to each oyster bite, enhancing the overall seafood experience.
If you want a more refined alternative, try champagne vinegar delight. The combination of champagne vinegar and finely minced shallots creates a delicate, nuanced sauce, which adds sophistication to the oyster pairing experience.
To make this sauce, mix equal parts champagne vinegar and finely minced shallots in a small bowl. Allow the flavours to meld for a few minutes before drizzling it over freshly shucked oysters.
Creamy oysters with basil pesto introduce a rich dimension to the oyster pairing repertoire. The sauce’s creaminess, achieved through the blend of fresh basil, pine nuts, and a hint of garlic, creates a delicious texture.
Combine a cup of fresh basil leaves, a quarter cup of pine nuts and a clove of garlic in a food processor. Gradually add olive oil until the mixture reaches a smooth consistency. Spoon this creamy basil pesto over freshly shucked oysters for an indulgent experience.
For those seeking an Asian-inspired twist, the oyster sauce infusion provides a savoury and umami-rich option. Combining oyster sauce with rice vinegar and a dash of soy sauce, this infusion adds depth and complexity to the oyster’s natural taste.
To make this piquant sauce, mix two tablespoons of oyster sauce, one tablespoon of rice vinegar and a teaspoon of soy sauce. Drizzle the mixture over the oysters for a blend of flavours that will transport your taste buds to the heart of Asia.
The citrus zing with lemon and garlic offers a refreshing and vibrant choice for oyster enthusiasts. This sauce combines the acidity of fresh lemon juice with the aromatic essence of minced garlic, creating a zesty and invigorating flavour profile.
To prepare this sauce, squeeze the juice of one fresh lemon and mince a clove of garlic. Mix the two ingredients, adding a pinch of rock salt for balance. Drizzle this citrusy delight over freshly shucked oysters.
White wine vinegar provides a milder alternative to the classic mignonette. To create this elegant sauce, combine equal parts white wine vinegar with finely minced shallot. This delicate mixture allows the oyster’s natural flavours to shine while providing a subtle acidity that enhances the overall experience.
Let the sauce sit for a few minutes before serving, allowing the flavours to meld and reach their full potential.
The herb-infused delight introduces a medley of fresh herbs, including chives, parsley, and dill, for a garden-fresh oyster experience. To make this delightful sauce, finely chop a tablespoon each of chives, parsley, and dill. Sprinkle this herb mixture over the oysters, creating a flavour combination that complements the oceanic notes of the seafood.
Each of these sauces brings its unique character, allowing enthusiasts to explore a spectrum of flavours. Whether you prefer the boldness of cocktail sauce or the sophistication of champagne vinegar, these sauces cater to diverse palates, promoting the taste of freshly shucked oysters.
Prepare a variety of sauces and have someone shuck these closed Sydney rock oysters (large) at your next dinner party.
The right sauce can elevate your dining experience. While the mignonette sauce remains a timeless favourite (and the best for many), there are other options you can explore for that perfect pairing.
From tangy cocktail sauces to creamy basil pestos, the options are as diverse as the oysters themselves. Try as many as you want so you can find your personal favourite. Don’t forget to get your oysters and other seafood from trusted sources like Manettas to ensure quality and freshness.
