Best 3 Oyster Stew Christmas Eve Recipes

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Indulge in the timeless tradition of Christmas Eve oyster stew, a culinary masterpiece that has graced dinner tables for generations. This heartwarming dish, steeped in history and nostalgia, offers a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds and evoke memories of cherished family gatherings. Whether you prefer the classic New England-style stew, known for its creamy broth and plump oysters, or the more modern variations that incorporate a variety of ingredients like vegetables, herbs, and spices, this article has something for every palate. Discover the secrets behind crafting the perfect oyster stew, from selecting the freshest oysters to mastering the art of balancing flavors. Let the aroma of shallots, celery, and thyme fill your kitchen as you embark on a culinary journey that will leave you craving more.

**Recipes Included:**

1. **New England-Style Oyster Stew:** Dive into the classic recipe that has stood the test of time. Learn how to create a velvety broth using fresh oysters, milk, and cream, and elevate the flavors with a touch of nutmeg and a hint of black pepper.

2. **Modern Oyster Stew with Vegetables:** Embark on a culinary adventure with this updated version of oyster stew that incorporates a medley of vegetables. From sweet carrots and tender celery to earthy mushrooms and aromatic leeks, this recipe transforms the traditional stew into a colorful and flavorful feast.

3. **Oyster Stew with Herbs and White Wine:** Elevate your oyster stew with the addition of aromatic herbs and a splash of white wine. Fresh thyme, parsley, and rosemary lend their distinctive flavors, while the white wine adds a subtle acidity that brightens the dish.

4. **Oyster Stew with Bacon and Corn:** Indulge in a hearty and smoky twist on oyster stew with the addition of crispy bacon and sweet corn. The bacon adds a savory depth of flavor, while the corn provides a delightful sweetness that complements the briny oysters perfectly.

5. **Oyster Stew with Spinach and Feta:** Experience a Mediterranean-inspired oyster stew that combines the briny flavors of the sea with the freshness of spinach and the tanginess of feta cheese. This unique recipe offers a delightful balance of flavors that will surprise and delight your taste buds.

Check out the recipes below so you can choose the best recipe for yourself!

OYSTER STEW CHRISTMAS EVE RECIPE



Oyster Stew Christmas Eve Recipe image

Oyster Stew has always traditionally been served by my mother and her Hollingsworth family roots from Georgia every Christmas Eve. The colors of red and green are very Christmas-like. I hope you enjoy it as much as we do.

Provided by Elaine Ann Foglio

Categories     Soups, Stews and Chili Recipes     Stews     Seafood

Time 35m

Yield 6

Number Of Ingredients 9

¼ cup butter
1 cup finely chopped celery
½ cup chopped green onion
½ cup chopped red bell pepper
2 pints half-and-half
1 teaspoon dried parsley
salt and ground black pepper to taste
1 (12 ounce) can oysters
2 dashes Louisiana-style hot sauce

Steps:

  • Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat until it begins to foam.
  • Cook and stir the celery, onion, and red bell pepper in the hot butter until soft, about 10 minutes.
  • Stir the half-and-half and parsley through the vegetable mixture; season with salt and black pepper.
  • Continue cooking until the mixture just begins to boil; add the oysters and any liquid from the can to the stew along with Louisiana-style hot sauce. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until the oysters begin to curl, 10 to 15 minutes more.
  • Remove the saucepan from heat and allow the stew to sit 5 minutes before serving.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 351.5 calories, Carbohydrate 11.8 g, Cholesterol 114.2 mg, Fat 30.3 g, Fiber 0.8 g, Protein 9.2 g, SaturatedFat 18.5 g, Sodium 209.2 mg, Sugar 1.3 g

CHRISTMAS EVE OYSTER STEW



Christmas Eve Oyster Stew image

This recipe has been passed down the generations in our family. We usually have it every year on Christmas Eve. Since it's so rich we only serve it with ice water to drink and a simple salad. Delicious and very satisfying.

Provided by Woowoose

Categories     Christmas

Time 5h20m

Yield 4-6 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 6

1 gallon 2% low-fat milk
3/4 cup butter
15 ounces oysters, with their juice
celery salt
salt and pepper
12 ounces oyster crackers

Steps:

  • Add milk, butter and oysters with their juice to a double boiler or a large pot that fits inside of another pot. Fill the bottom pot as full of water as you can without it running over.
  • Add a little celery salt, salt and pepper and then heat on low. Cook very slowy so the milk won't boil (I start at 1 pm. for dinner at 6 pm). Every now and then stir. After a few hours, do a taste test to adjust seasonings.
  • Serve with oyster crackers.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 1236.8, Fat 65.6, SaturatedFat 35.9, Cholesterol 221.6, Sodium 1665.5, Carbohydrate 110.7, Fiber 2.6, Sugar 49, Protein 50

CHRISTMAS EVE OYSTER STEW



Christmas Eve Oyster Stew image

My spiced-up version of our family's tradition. We served this traditional Christmas Eve dish along with clam dip and cranberry- or Russian-spiced tea.

Provided by Karen B

Categories     Soups, Stews and Chili Recipes     Stews     Seafood

Time 25m

Yield 6

Number Of Ingredients 6

2 tablespoons butter
1 small onion, minced
2 (8 ounce) cans oysters, liquid reserved
4 cups milk
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 dash garlic powder

Steps:

  • Melt the butter in a large pot over medium-high heat; cook the onion in the melted butter until tender, about 5 minutes. Pour the oysters with their juices into the pot and bring to a boil; cook 3 minutes. Add the milk, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder; stir. Allow the soup to cook until heated completely through, 5 to 10 minutes.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 176.4 calories, Carbohydrate 12.8 g, Cholesterol 64.3 mg, Fat 8.9 g, Fiber 0.2 g, Protein 10.8 g, SaturatedFat 5 g, Sodium 233.6 mg, Sugar 8.7 g

Tips:

  • Choose the Freshest Oysters: The quality of your oysters will greatly impact the flavor of your stew. Opt for fresh, plump oysters with tightly closed shells.
  • Prepare the Oysters Properly: Before cooking, scrub the oyster shells thoroughly under cold running water. Use a shucking knife to carefully open the oysters, being mindful to retain their liquor.
  • Use a Dutch Oven: A Dutch oven is the ideal pot for making oyster stew as it evenly distributes heat and prevents scorching.
  • Start with a Flavorful Base: Sweat aromatic vegetables like onions, celery, and garlic in butter to create a flavorful base for your stew.
  • Add Liquids Gradually: Gradually add the reserved oyster liquor, milk, and cream to the pot, stirring constantly to prevent curdling.
  • Simmer, Don't Boil: Bring the stew to a simmer and maintain it throughout the cooking process. Boiling can toughen the oysters and diminish their delicate flavor.
  • Season Thoughtfully: Use salt and pepper sparingly, as the natural flavors of the oysters should take center stage. Consider adding a touch of dried thyme or bay leaves for extra depth.
  • Serve with Accompaniments: Oyster stew is traditionally served with crackers, crusty bread, or cornbread for dipping. You can also garnish it with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives.

Conclusion:

Oyster stew is a delectable dish that embodies the essence of coastal cuisine. With its creamy, flavorful broth, plump oysters, and aromatic vegetables, it's a perfect dish for a special occasion or a cozy night in. By following these tips, you can elevate your oyster stew to a culinary delight that will leave your taste buds dancing. Remember to use fresh ingredients, prepare the oysters properly, and simmer the stew gently to preserve the delicate flavors. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, oyster stew is a dish that anyone can master with a little care and attention. So gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and embark on a culinary journey that will leave you yearning for more.

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