If you’re looking for a classic seafood dish to impress guests at your next dinner party or special occasion, look no further than Oysters Rockefeller! This New Orleans favorite is a decadent and flavorful appetizer that is surprisingly easy to make at home.
Ingredients
- 1 dozen oysters
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup minced onion
- 1/4 cup minced celery
- 1/4 cup minced green bell pepper
- 1/4 cup minced fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup minced fresh spinach
- 1/4 cup Pernod or other anise-flavored liqueur
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 450°F.
- Shuck the oysters, discarding the top shell and reserving the oyster in the bottom half-shell.
- Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the onion, celery, and bell pepper and sauté until softened.
- Add the parsley and spinach and cook, stirring, until wilted.
- Stir in the Pernod and cook for 1 minute.
- Add the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper and stir to combine.
- Spoon the breadcrumb mixture over each oyster.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, until the breadcrumbs are golden brown and the oysters are cooked through.
- Serve hot.
Vegetarian/Vegan Version
Unfortunately, there is no vegetarian or vegan version of this recipe as it heavily relies on oysters as the main ingredient. However, you can try substituting the oysters with mushrooms and vegetable broth in the sauce to create a similar texture and flavor.
Gluten-Free Version
To make this recipe gluten-free, you can replace the panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Make sure to check the ingredients of the Parmesan cheese as well, as some brands may contain gluten.
Tips and Variations
- If you don’t have access to fresh oysters, you can use frozen oysters or canned oysters for this recipe.
- Some recipes call for bacon or other meats to be added to the breadcrumb mixture for extra flavor.
- If you don’t have Pernod or another anise-flavored liqueur, you can use white wine or chicken broth instead.
- For a spicier version, add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture.
- Serve with lemon wedges and cocktail sauce on the side for a classic accompaniment.
With its rich and indulgent flavor, Oysters Rockefeller is the perfect dish for a fancy dinner party or special occasion. And with this easy-to-follow recipe, you can recreate this New Orleans classic in the comfort of your own home.
FAQ
What is Oysters Rockefeller?
Oysters Rockefeller is a classic American dish that consists of oysters baked with a mixture of breadcrumbs, butter, parsley, and other seasonings.
What ingredients do I need to make Oysters Rockefeller?
To make Oysters Rockefeller, you will need oysters, spinach, bread crumbs, butter, garlic, parsley, Pernod or another anise-flavored liqueur, and seasonings.
How do I prepare the oysters for this dish?
To prepare the oysters for this dish, you will need to shuck them and remove the meat from the shell. Be sure to reserve the liquid that comes out of the oysters when you open them, as you will use this in the dish.
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh spinach?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach instead of fresh spinach for this dish. Just be sure to thaw and drain the spinach before using it in the recipe.
How long should I bake the oysters for?
You should bake the oysters for about 10-12 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the oysters are cooked through.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time and then bake it just before serving. Just be sure to keep the prepared oysters refrigerated until you are ready to bake them.
What type of wine should I serve with Oysters Rockefeller?
You can serve a dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, with Oysters Rockefeller. The wine should be crisp and light to complement the delicate flavor of the oysters.
Can I use a different type of liqueur instead of Pernod?
Yes, you can use a different type of liqueur instead of Pernod in this recipe. Anise-flavored liqueurs such as Absinthe, Pastis, or Sambuca can be used as a substitute.
How do I store leftover Oysters Rockefeller?
If you have any leftover Oysters Rockefeller, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Can I use a different type of seafood instead of oysters?
Yes, you can use a different type of seafood instead of oysters in this recipe. Shrimp or scallops can be substituted for the oysters. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
