Tips for shucking and eating an oyster

Opening a live oyster takes some practice. I recommend that you use a proper oyster knife which has a strong, thick blade designed specifically for opening the shells.

• Clean the outside of the oyster shell with a brush under cold running water.
• To protect your hands, place a folded kitchen towel in your palm. Hold the oyster, the cupped side facing down. Use the knife to pry into the oyster’s hinge (bottom, middle).
• Twist the knife to pop off the top shell.
• Gently slide knife along the inside of the top shell. This will loosen the flesh still remaining on the shell. Discard the top shell.
• Run the knife under the flesh of the oyster meat to detach it from the bottom shell. 
• Eat as desired, preferably with fresh lemon juice, ground pepper, and perhaps a dash of Tabasco sauce.

To eat a raw oyster on the half-shell:

Pick up the bottom shell, taking care not to spill the oyster juice. Bring the broad end to your lips, tip the shell, tilt back your head and let the oyster meat and juice slide into your mouth.  Important Tip:  You must take the time to chew the oyster properly. Anecdotal evidence suggests that chewing helps release the "romantic" qualities of the oyster into your body more quickly!

Casanova's Serving Suggestion

"I placed the shell on the edge of her lips and after a great deal of laughing, she sucked in the oyster, which she held between her lips. I instantly recovered it by placing my lips on hers."

Drinks Tip

Contrary to the convention of drinking champagne when eating raw oysters, it is better to drink a full-bodied red wine like a Bordeaux. Red wines are full of 'Yang' energy, and this zaps up your libido.