While oysters are available on our stalls throughout the year, their season actually runs from September until the end of April. Which means that you only have a few weeks left if you want to enjoy fresh oysters. In order to prolong the pleasure, we have prepared a short guide to help you keep them in the best conditions. You will see, it is as simple as anything!
We keep the oysters closed
This point is probably the most important. Once opened, it is best to consume the oysters within a few hours. Maximum three hours. It may be that you have opened several and finally at the last moment you decide to store them to eat them later. But generally, consumers are advised not to wait too long before dining when the content is no longer protected from external aggressions. The best way to keep them for a long time and in optimal conditions is therefore to leave them closed until ready to serve.
Keep oysters in the fridge
No need to take particularly restrictive measures to preserve your oysters. These last very well to be placed in the refrigerator, in temperatures between 5 and 15 ° C. You can store them in the least cool compartment of your appliance, namely the vegetable drawer. If you have opted for loose oysters, you can either arrange them in a dish (the hollow part down), or wrap them in a clean tea towel and then put them in the fridge. If you bought them in basket, you can place the basket directly in the bin. Not enough space ? They will hold just as well in a room where the temperature is rather low such as a cellar.
How long to keep the oysters?
If you have followed the above instructions to the letter, you will be able to keep your oysters for up to 10 days after purchasing them. The duration may vary depending on whether they are oysters bought in basket or in bulk, but also whether they are rather thin or fleshy. When you are ready to taste them, you will certainly have to check that they are still good. For this, if you are used to exercising, you can shake them near your ear. If there is movement, it is because they are still good. If you don’t have keen hearing, you can open them. No suspicious smell? Perfect. If despite everything you still have doubts, stick a toothpick or the pick of a knife at the ends. If it retracts, your oyster is still alive and therefore edible. Season, prepare the platter and all you have to do is enjoy some rays of sunshine.
Read also :
⋙ 5 ideas for recycling oyster shells
⋙ Fish calendar: what to eat in spring?
⋙ Opening oysters: our two tips to avoid hurting yourself