How to shuck an oyster

How to shuck an Oyster

Shucking oysters is done with a shucking knife – a knife specifically used for opening oysters that is stubby, blunt sturdy and pointed. 

step 1

Cover one hand with a folded tea towel and use this hand to hold the oyster on the table so that the flatter top shell is facing upwards and the hinge is exposed.

step 2

Insert the shucking knif into the hinge end and wiggle it carefully to lever the top shell up.

step 3

Run the knife along the inside of the top shell to cut the muscle attaching the oyster to the shell.Discard the top shell.

step 4

Run the knife underneath the oyster to detach it from the bottom shell. The oyster is now ready to eat raw or to be cooked.

Special thanks to BBC Good Food for the great images.