Ingredients
Oysters
- 24 fresh oysters (in the shell)
Butter Mixture
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- ⅛ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Hot sauce (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the smoker: Set your smoker to 225 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare for cooking the oysters.
- Prepare the oysters: Rinse the oysters thoroughly under cold, clean water. Shuck them carefully and keep half of each shell for serving later.
- Clean the shells: Boil the retained oyster shells in water for 10 minutes to clean them, then dry completely.
- Smoke the oysters: Arrange the shucked oysters on a grilling sheet or cooling rack. Smoke them for 15 to 20 minutes, or until their internal temperature reaches 140°F, indicating they are cooked through.
- Make the butter sauce: In a small microwave-safe bowl, combine unsalted butter, garlic powder, paprika, and freshly ground black pepper.
- Melt the butter mixture: Heat the butter mixture in the microwave for 30 seconds, stir well, then continue heating for an additional 10 seconds until fully melted.
- Serve the oysters: Dip the smoked oysters into the melted butter mixture. Place the butter-coated oysters back into the prepared shells for an elegant presentation. Optionally, add a few drops of hot sauce for extra flavor.
Notes
- Ensure oysters are fresh and properly stored before preparation.
- Carefully monitor the internal temperature to avoid overcooking.
- Retaining half of the oyster shells adds a rustic and authentic serving look.
- Adjust the amount of hot sauce to taste or omit for a milder flavor.
- Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness of the final dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Smoking
- Cuisine: American
