Storage & Prep

Spanish Version

store cupside down

Our fresh shellfish are living creatures and alive when we sell them to you, please handle with care. Properly stored, shellfish will remain in superior condition until you consume them.

OYSTERS

  • Never store oysters covered in either fresh or salt water.
  • Stack oysters cup side down (flat side up) in a bowl or dish, cover with a damp towel.
  • Refrigerate below 45F.
  • Shelf life: Use within one week of purchase from our shop.

CLAMS & MUSSELS

  • There is no need to stack clams or mussels. Place in bowl, cover with damp towel, and
  • Refrigerate below 45F.
  • Shelf life: Up to three days.

Washing

BBOC Website 600x300 (11)

Gently wash shellfish under clean, cold water. Scrub with a fiber brush if necessary.

When washing clams, place in bowl and cover with cold fresh water. Briskly agitate clams and discard any that are gaping open or dead. Repeat this until all clams appear clean (about four times).


Cooking

9

Fresh shellfish in the shell can be steamed, grilled or baked; and when shucked can be stewed, sautéed, fried, or eaten raw. Here are just the basics here to help you get started. Check out our RECIPES page for more.

RAW

We are probably biased, but fresh raw oysters are our favorite. Try with with just a twist of lemon/lime, some hot sauce, or just by itself to enjoy flavors of the bay.

STEAMED

This is a very easy way to enjoy your shellfish. Gently scrub the shellfish. Then put them in a covered steamer or large pot with a few inches of water, wine, or beer and your preferred seasonings (try garlic and/or onion).

Steam about 10 minutes. The clams and mussels open wide when cooked, while the oysters may only open their shells a little bit or not at all. Stir with a large spoon once or twice to help them cook evenly and open the shells. Cook oysters very lightly, only until the mantle curls.

BBQ

Place oysters on the grill over medium heat with the cup side down so that the oyster cooks in its own juices. In about 5-8 minutes, the majority of shells will pop open; those that do not open on their own, shuck open with an oyster knife. Remove the top shell, add your favorite sauce and return to the grill for a minute or two until the sauce is warm.