Kilpatrick Oysters with Bacon and Worcestershire

Kilpatrick Oysters with Bacon and Worcestershire

Classic DishOysters

Embark on a culinary journey with Kilpatrick Oysters, a quintessential New Zealand seafood delight that has captured hearts and palates for generations. This beloved recipe transforms plump, fresh oysters into an irresistible appetizer, baked within their shells, each one crowned with savoury, crispy bacon and a rich, tangy Worcestershire sauce glaze. Dotted with golden breadcrumbs, these oysters offer a symphony of textures and flavours – the briny ocean kiss of the mollusc, the smoky crunch of bacon, and the umami depth of the sauce, all brought together by a hint of toasted bread. Perfect for celebrations, BBQs, or simply as a treat, Kilpatrick Oysters are a testament to the simplicity and freshness of New Zealand's bountiful coastline. Discovering how to prepare this classic is a rewarding experience, perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs looking to impress. These baked oysters are a must-try for any seafood lover seeking the authentic taste of Kiwi cuisine.

Preparation time
15 min
Cooking time
10 min
Total time
25 min
Servings
12

Instructions

Preparation

  1. 1Preheat your oven or grill to 200°C (400°F).
  2. 2If using unshucked oysters, carefully shuck them, reserving the bottom shell and loosening the oyster meat from the shell. Discard the top shell.
  3. 3If your oysters are already shucked on the half shell, ensure they are secure in their shells.
  4. 4Place the oysters (in their bottom shells) onto a baking sheet. You can press rock salt onto the baking sheet to help stabilize the oysters if desired.
  5. 5In a small bowl, combine the chopped bacon, Worcestershire sauce, and breadcrumbs. Mix well.

Cooking

  1. 1Spoon a generous amount of the bacon and Worcestershire mixture over each oyster.
  2. 2Season with a pinch of freshly ground black pepper.
  3. 3Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the topping is golden brown and bubbling.

Nutrition Information

Calories
151 kcal
Protein
10 g
Fat
10 g
Carbs
5 g
NutrientPer serving
Calories151 kcal
Protein10 g
Fat10 g
Carbs5 g

Tips

  • Ensure your oysters are fresh; their smell should be clean and briny, not unpleasant.
  • Serve immediately for the best texture and temperature. A wedge of lemon on the side is a classic accompaniment.
  • Keep a close eye on the oysters during the final minutes of cooking to prevent the breadcrumbs from burning.

By Chef Michael Ilin