Oysters Casino Recipe

Name: Oysters Casino
Prep time: 40 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 3 thick-cut bacon slices, cut crosswise into 1/2-in. pieces (about 1/2 cup); ¼ cup finely chopped shallot (from 1 medium [2 oz.] shallot); ¼ cup finely chopped green bell pepper (from 1 small [7 oz.] pepper); 2 tablespoons seeded and finely chopped red Fresno chile (from 1 [1-oz.] chile); ½ cup (4 oz.) unsalted butter, softened; 2 tablespoons. finely chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley; 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest (from 1 [5-oz.] lemon), plus lemon wedges for serving; ¼ teaspoon kosher salt; 2 dozen oysters on the half shell; lemon wedges for serving

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Oysters with Bacon and Herb Butter

This recipe yields 6 servings, with a rich and savory topping that perfectly complements the briny oysters.

Ingredients

3 slices thick-cut bacon, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
1 shallot, finely chopped
1 small green bell pepper, finely chopped
2 tablespoons seeded and finely chopped red Fresno chile
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
2 dozen oysters on the half shell
Lemon wedges, for serving

Directions

Follow these steps to make the perfect oysters with bacon and herb butter.

Step 1: Gather all ingredients to ensure everything is ready before you begin.

Step 2: Preheat the oven to 450F (230C). Line two rimmed baking sheets with aluminum foil. Then, crumple another layer of foil on each baking sheet to form 24 small cups, ensuring that the oysters stay steady while baking.

Step 3: Place the bacon in a large nonstick skillet and cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Continue cooking until the bacon starts to brown but isnt yet crisp, about 5 minutes. Once done, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, reserving 1 tablespoon of drippings in the skillet.

Step 4: In the same skillet, heat the reserved bacon drippings over medium heat. Add the chopped shallot, bell pepper, and Fresno chile, stirring often. Cook for about 1 minute until the mixture softens slightly. Transfer to a small bowl and refrigerate, uncovered, for about 5 minutes until it cools slightly.

Step 5: In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, cooled shallot mixture, chopped parsley, grated lemon zest, and kosher salt. Stir everything together until fully blended and set aside.

Step 6: Arrange the oysters on the prepared foil cups with the cupped sides facing down. Spoon about 1 teaspoon of the prepared butter mixture onto each oyster, then top evenly with the reserved bacon pieces.

Step 7: Bake the oysters in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the butter is bubbling.

Step 8: Using tongs, carefully transfer the oysters to an oyster platter or a regular serving platter lined with rock salt to keep the oysters from tipping over. Squeeze fresh lemon wedges over the oysters and serve immediately.

Enjoy your oysters with the rich combination of bacon, butter, and fresh herbs!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrition	Per Serving
Calories	449
Total Fat	27g
Saturated Fat	13g
Cholesterol	159mg
Sodium	591mg
Total Carbohydrates	28g
Dietary Fiber	4g
Protein	28g
Vitamin C	106mg
Calcium	68mg
Iron	11mg
Potassium	706mg

Oysters Casino Recipe

The Rich History of Oysters Casino

Oysters Casino is a classic American appetizer with roots dating back to the early 20th century. The dish was first created at the famous Little Casino in Narragansett, Rhode Island, around 1910. Originally intended as a luxurious treat for theatergoers and affluent diners, Oysters Casino combined the fresh, briny taste of oysters with rich butter, bacon, and vibrant seasonings. Over the decades, it has become a hallmark of American seafood cuisine, especially during festive gatherings and special occasions.

Regional Variations and Influences

While Oysters Casino is closely associated with the East Coast of the United States, particularly Rhode Island and New Orleans, regional adaptations have added unique twists. In New Orleans, for example, the recipe may include a touch of Creole seasoning or hot sauce to enhance the flavor profile. On the West Coast, chefs often incorporate local oysters and sometimes a hint of citrus or fresh herbs like tarragon to highlight the Pacific Oceans delicate flavors. Each region celebrates its own version, but the core combination of oysters, butter, bacon, and aromatics remains constant.

What Sets Oysters Casino Apart from Similar Dishes

Oysters Casino is often compared to other baked oyster dishes, such as Oysters Rockefeller or Oysters Bienville. The key difference lies in the ingredients and flavor profile: Oysters Rockefeller typically features a spinach and herb topping with a creamy sauce, whereas Oysters Casino emphasizes crisp bacon, shallots, bell peppers, and sometimes chili for a slightly smoky and spicy finish. The simplicity of its topping allows the natural briny flavor of the oyster to shine, creating a balance between richness and freshness that distinguishes it from its counterparts.

Typical Serving Contexts

Oysters Casino is most often served as an appetizer at fine dining restaurants, seafood bars, and during holiday celebrations. They are typically presented on the half shell atop a bed of rock salt or in specialized oyster plates to prevent tipping. The dish pairs beautifully with chilled white wine, champagne, or a crisp cocktail, enhancing its indulgent yet refreshing character. In some regions, it is also a popular choice for festive brunches and upscale buffet presentations.

Interesting Facts About Oysters Casino

The original recipe was said to be created specifically to entice women to dine out during the early 1900s, as it was considered sophisticated yet accessible.
Oysters Casino is sometimes served with lemon wedges, which not only enhance flavor but also aid in balancing the richness of the butter and bacon.
The dishs enduring popularity has inspired numerous variations, including mini versions for hors doeuvres and adaptations with smoked bacon or different types of peppers for added heat.
Despite its American origin, Oysters Casino has crossed international borders and can now be found on seafood menus in Europe and Asia, often with local twists.

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FAQ about Oysters Casino Recipe

Leftover Oysters Casino should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For best quality, consume within 1-2 days. Reheat gently in the oven at a low temperature to avoid overcooking the oysters.

Yes, you can prepare the oyster topping and refrigerate it until you're ready to cook. However, it's best to bake the oysters just before serving to ensure the oysters remain tender and the bacon crisp.

Yes, frozen oysters can be used, but be sure to thaw them completely and drain excess water before baking. Fresh oysters are recommended for the best flavor and texture.

Yes, if you can't find Fresno chiles, you can substitute with another type of fresh chili like jalapeño or serrano for a similar level of heat and flavor.

Oysters Casino pairs well with a simple salad, a mignonette sauce, or crusty bread to balance the richness of the dish. You can also serve it with a light white wine or champagne.

While you can use regular bacon, thick-cut bacon gives a better texture and flavor to the dish. Regular bacon might cook too quickly and lose its crispiness.

To prevent oysters from tipping over, arrange them in small cups made from crumpled aluminum foil on your baking sheet. This helps keep them stable while cooking.

Cooked Oysters Casino can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Ensure they are tightly covered to preserve freshness. However, the texture of the oysters may change after being stored.

If you don't have flat-leaf parsley, you can substitute with curly parsley, though the flavor may be slightly different. Other herbs like chives or tarragon can also work well as substitutes.

Yes, you can omit the bacon for a vegetarian version of Oysters Casino. You can substitute with additional herbs or even breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping.