Crispy Southern Fried Oysters | Easy Step by Step Recipe

buttermilk

🥗Healthier: Greek yogurt

💰Cheaper: milk + vinegar

Greek yogurt adds creaminess with fewer calories.

all-purpose flour

🥗Healthier: whole wheat flour

💰Cheaper: cornstarch

Whole wheat flour adds fiber, while cornstarch creates a lighter batter.

cooking oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: vegetable oil

Avocado oil has a higher smoke point, while vegetable oil is more affordable.

cayenne pepper

🥗Healthier: smoked paprika

💰Cheaper: red pepper flakes

Smoked paprika offers flavor without the heat, while red pepper flakes can be more economical.

Start with a half pint of raw oysters, which can be doubled for more servings.

Pour 2 cups of buttermilk into a mixing bowl and add 1-2 tablespoons of your favorite southern hot sauce.

Add the oysters to the buttermilk without rinsing them to retain the brine flavor.

Let the oysters soak for about 15 minutes on the counter to tenderize and warm them up.

In a separate bowl, combine 2 cups of flour, 2 cups of yellow cornmeal, a healthy pour of Slappy Mama Cajun seasoning, and a touch of salt and pepper. Stir to mix evenly.

Take the oysters out of the buttermilk one at a time, letting the excess drip off, and dredge them in the flour and cornmeal mixture until completely coated.

Use one set of tongs for the wet buttermilk and another for the dry breading to avoid a messy coating process.

Place the coated oysters on a wire rack over a pan to prepare for frying.

Heat 1-2 cups of frying oil in a cast iron skillet, ensuring not to fill it more than halfway.

Gradually bring the oil temperature up to 350°F, checking readiness by dropping in a pinch of flour to see if it sizzles.

Carefully drop the oysters into the hot oil, ensuring they fall away from your body to avoid splashes.

Fry the oysters in small batches for 2-3 minutes until they are visibly golden brown.

Remove the oysters with a slotted spoon and place them on a wire rack or a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Sprinkle a light amount of salt on the oysters while they are still hot for better seasoning adherence.

Serve the crispy southern fried oysters with lemon wedges and your favorite hot sauce.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Allergens