How to cook oysters on the BBQ

Oysters are delicious shellfish that cook with the heat and steam created inside the shell.

I usually grill or smoke oysters when my guests don't like raw oysters or it's their first time (I wouldn't want to lose a future customer!). Also, with the summer heat, I sometimes don't feel like opening oysters by hand.

Two-step BBQ oysters

Your oysters are opened by the heat of the BBQ, then you add your favourite garnish on top. Keep a good ratio so you can still taste the oysters. Put them back on the grill and let the filling heat up and cook the oysters.

Opening the oysters on the BBQ

1. Choose your oysters: use meaty oysters because if they are too small, they cook too quickly and tend to shrink. You can use open or closed oysters.
2. Heat the barbecue to 400F (200C), then place the oysters on the grill and close the lid. After five minutes, you'll start to hear them open and release seawater onto the grill.
3. Check if the oysters are starting to open by picking one up and seeing if the top shell comes off easily. You don't want to overcook them, as we'll put them back on the grill once the filling is on top.
4. When the oysters open and the heat is well distributed, they should all be ready. Remove them and take off the top shell. Be careful: the shell stays hot for a long time and the steam inside can burn you.

Garnishing the oysters

Any garnish works well. Here are a few ideas I use throughout the summer:

• Diced tomatoes, herbs, hot pepper, olive oil, Parmesan shavings
• Rockefeller mix
• Bolognese sauce and mozzarella
• Chimichurri or salsa verde
• Ratatouille

You can also open the oysters with a knife first, add your garnish, then place them on the grill and let the garnish heat up and cook the oysters.

Smoked oysters

1. Start your smoker at 200F (100C) with your favourite wood chip flavour.
2. Leave the oysters in the smoker for about two hours.
3. Once cooked, you can store your oysters in the fridge for up to four days.
4. The size and quality of your oysters will determine the exact cooking time.
5. BBQ oysters can be served as a main course with a salad.

Food pairings

Oysters pair well with a variety of wines depending on your garnish. I love a classic Chablis, but a fruity red works great with bolognese, and a chilled rose is perfect in the summer heat. For smoked oysters, try a beer or a Scotch.

Bon appetit,

Francois-Xavier
Founder, Oysters & Caviar

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