Description
Experience the rich flavors of the sea with these Barbecued Oysters topped with a decadent Smoky Uni Butter. The combination of smoky paprika, fresh uni roe, and zesty lemon creates an unforgettable appetizer that’s perfect for grilling season or any special occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Smoky Uni Butter:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 pieces fresh or frozen uni (sea urchin roe)
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove (minced)
- Pinch of cayenne pepper
- Salt to taste
For the Oysters:
- 12 fresh oysters (in the shell, scrubbed clean)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
- Chopped fresh chives or parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Smoky Uni Butter: In a small bowl, mash together the softened butter, uni, smoked paprika, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic, cayenne, and a pinch of salt until smooth. Chill for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to blend and the butter to firm up.
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat a grill to medium-high heat to ensure it’s hot enough for cooking the oysters quickly and evenly.
- Shuck the Oysters: Carefully shuck the oysters, making sure to keep as much of the briny liquid (liquor) inside the shell as possible. Loosen the oyster meat from the shell and arrange them on a tray or directly on the grill using rock salt or a muffin pan to keep them steady.
- Add the Uni Butter: Place about 1 teaspoon of the smoky uni butter on top of each oyster, distributing it evenly for maximum flavor.
- Grill the Oysters: Grill the oysters with the lid closed for 3–5 minutes, or until the butter is bubbling and the oysters are just cooked through, enhancing their natural briny taste with a smoky finish.
- Serve: Carefully remove the oysters from the grill, garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and serve immediately alongside lemon wedges for a refreshing squeeze.
Notes
- Use high-quality uni for the best flavor impact.
- You can prepare the uni butter in advance and freeze it for convenience.
- If grilling is not available, broil the oysters for 3–4 minutes as an alternative cooking method.
