Oysters are loved by people, but not everyone who is into them knows a lot about them, especially when it comes to identifying the varieties. If you want to order oysters at a restaurant, it can be intimidating once you see the selections they have. You can find out more about oysters by doing your research, tasting each one and, of course, reading informative articles like this. You will find useful information here so that you can at least have some basic knowledge about oysters and be guided the next time you want to order oysters.

The Texture and Taste

Oysters come in a range of flavour profiles called 'terrior', which will depend on their origin. The harbour where the oysters came from can affect their taste because of the food, the current and the nutrients they consumed. Since oysters serve as a water filter and the water flows through them all day, they get the hint of everything around them. Some common flavours that you might taste from eating oysters are copper, brine, butter, cream, melon or cucumber.

Species

There are five kinds of oysters, and being knowledgeable about them will inform you of their origin and who raised them. Pacific oysters have a fruity taste, which is similar to the flavour profile that Kumamoto oysters have, but with a deeper cup. There is the Virginia that has a more intense flavour, which means it is still fruity, but robust and saltier. They can be found in the Gulf of Mexico. The Olympia oysters and European Flat have the same genus, both having very strong flavours, even if the Olympia is found on the West Coast and the European Flat is native to Europe.

How to Order Them

If you are a beginner, you need to start with the sweeter, milder and medium-sized oysters that have a less briny taste. You do not want the ones with a very intense taste because it is your first time, but you can always order a plate that has all types so you can taste them all. When you eat oysters for the first time, eat them without adding condiments. Use a fork and make sure to separate the meat from the shell and then slurp it all at once, even the juice. Chew it to get the full flavour before swallowing. Send the oysters back if it smells off because they should smell fresh. You also need to watch out if it is dry and you see that the oyster is fat with a cloudy oyster juice.  

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