OYSTERS

Oysters. Love ’em or leave them. I suspect I’ve lost many readers already!

We first had them with our friends Sally and John, often referred to in this blog and often involved in our food experiments.

Unfortunately on this occasion we were all ill, having to leave work and take to our beds!

This was more than 30 years ago and fortunately I have experienced only one other gastric problem from oysters.

Unlike many people who have a bad experience with food/drink I am never deterred!

Sheila wasn’t so “foolhardy”, until that is here in France at the village annual dinner, when a French woman looked at Sheila, who was about to pass her oysters over to me. The woman said ” I thought English people didnt like oysters”? Suddenly I heard Sheila say. ” Oh no we love them” and so it was Sheila was hooked.

My favourite way of “seasoning” oysters is with a drop of lemon juice or Tabasco and I invariable chew not just swallow.

A recent discovery is Vodka granita and this has become a firm favourite:-

500ml water
100ml vodka
65gr Caster Sugar
3 limes, zest and juice

Add all the ingredients and bring to the boil. Allow to cool then strain. Place in a flat tray and place in the freezer Keep an eye on it and when frozen squash with a fork. Like an alcoholic Slush Puppy!

We do of course enjoy the classic French way – MIGNONETTE( Shallot Vinaigrette )

Other alternative is Chilli, ginger and rice wine vinegar:-

Finely grate half a thumb sized piece of ginger and mix with 6 tablespoons of rice wine vinegar. Finely chop and deseed a red chilli, add finely sliced coriander. Stir in a teaspoon of sugar.

Whatever your choice I urge you to try oysters, the taste of the sea …..