Oysters composition of useful properties. Boiled oysters. Nutritional value and chemical composition of "Oyster"

03.12.2021Heading: Kinds

Not everyone can appreciate the taste of oysters. These sea inhabitants belong to the group of products that are usually eaten alive, then the benefits from them will be maximum. Oyster meat has beneficial properties that not only saturate the body with all the necessary substances. They also help in the prevention and treatment of many diseases and are recommended for use by nutritionists.

Habitat

Oysters belong to the family of bivalve molluscs. They live at shallow depths. Almost all of them are warm-water and grow well with partial desalination by river waters.

Eat them alive. Before such a mollusk can get on the table, it grows for 3-4 years. In Moscow restaurants, seafood has ceased to be expensive delicacies, the price for them starts from 150 rubles per piece. You can select them from online stores. Depending on the habitat, they can cost from 250 to 1500 rubles per 1 kg.

Today there are many countries where shellfish are artificially bred: Canada, USA, Holland, Norway, France, the Russian Far East. Oysters grow on special reefs or nets. The interesting thing is that they can change their gender. Having been born "men", having fed up, the mollusks change their properties and become "girls", ready to have offspring.

Previously, oysters were used strictly when the letter "r" was in the name of the month. It began with the decree of Louis 15, a big fan of shellfish, who forbade fishing in the summer. During this time, wholesome oysters were preoccupied with procreation. But a hundred years later, the decree was canceled, as they learned to grow oysters artificially. Today 99% of all oysters are grown on farms.

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Composition and nutritional value

The calorie content of 100 grams of oysters is only 72 calories, which, with a reduced proportion of fat and a sufficient protein content, makes this shellfish a valuable nutritious product not only for weight loss, but also for the health of the entire human body.

Their pulp consists of a large number of minerals that have useful properties:

60 mg calcium;
220 mg potassium;
165 mg chlorine;
90 mg sodium;
140 mg phosphorus;
60 mg magnesium;
90 mg sulfur;
6.2 mg iron;
0.7 mg zinc and others.

They are part of the oyster pulp and vitamins: A - 85 μg, B1 - 0.15 μg, B2 - 0.19 μg, PP - 3.5 μg, C - 3 mg, E - 0.9 mg.

100 grams of oysters contains: 9 g of proteins, 2 g of fat, 4.5 g of carbohydrates.

Useful medicinal properties

Oyster pulp has a unique composition, which determines its benefits to the human body. There is also a category of people for whom the use of shellfish is simply necessary. Oysters have the following health benefits:

They are natural antidepressants because they contain a large amount of thiamine, which helps to optimize the functioning of the nervous system. There is also tryptophan, an amino acid with properties that can help you fall asleep faster and help you sleep well. It is not for nothing that seafood lovers consider them to be an excellent food that gives a good mood, evokes a feeling of happiness.
The benefits of the zinc found in shellfish meat are to improve the condition of the skin, nails and hair, and help to strengthen the immune system. It is also necessary for men, helping to strengthen reproductive function. Oyster is a natural aphrodisiac, that is, a natural stimulant, the properties of which increase libido.
Oysters contain unsaturated acids such as Omega-6 and Omega-3, which are required for proper cell development. In addition, they are able to inhibit the growth of cancer cells and the harm they cause. These beneficial acids are needed for the prevention and treatment of vascular atherosclerosis due to their ability to remove harmful cholesterol.
The properties of iron and various mineral salts, when combined with vitamins, are in improving the processes of hematopoiesis, therefore, for good, oysters should be included in the diet of people with diseases such as anemia.
Oysters contain provitamin D3, which is converted into vitamin D in the human body, which is necessary to strengthen bones, teeth, and increase immunity. A deficiency in this vitamin can harm the body, leading to obesity and lethargy. By including seafood in the diet of men and women, or rather, oysters, this can be corrected.

During thalassotherapy, powdered shells are used. They are used as a source of natural calcium, which interacts with other minerals to improve the appearance and condition of the skin. The benefits of proteins are such that they penetrate into the lower layers of the epidermis and help smooth out wrinkles.

Contraindications and harm

Dead oysters can harm, cause poisoning, their meat is not eaten even after heat treatment. Therefore, in order to avoid trouble, this product is consumed alive, then the benefits from them will be maximum.

You should not include oysters in the diet of allergy sufferers, even those who show symptoms of fish. The specific composition of molluscs is such that it can often cause obvious harm to the body - a rapid course of immune responses, for example, progressive swelling of the nasopharynx.

The rapid digestion of oysters can cause gastrointestinal illness. Therefore, people suffering from similar problems, as well as pregnant and lactating women, need to give up shellfish. There are contraindications for young children, as well as for those with thyroid dysfunction.

Right choice

When buying oysters, you should pay attention to the appearance of the shells. Damage, chips, or incomprehensible stains on the flaps may indicate a stale or spoiled product. And you only need to buy shellfish alive. Experienced buyers know that:

Edible, healthy oysters can be sold alive, in containers on seaweed or bags with the specified date of packaging and expiration date.
The shell of a live mollusk is always closed.
Shellless oysters sold inside marinade jars must be the same size, plump, and clear bodies. A cloudy white color is a sign of a spoiled product; eating it is harmful to health.
No matter how hard you try to open the shell, a living mollusk always slams the shutters.
The surface of the shell of a fresh oyster is always wet, when the shells are tapped against each other, the sound that appears resembles the sound of two stones.

Oysters are usually eaten before main meals, and only oyster bars can offer them as a standalone meal. They eat the molluscs alive by squeezing lemon juice onto the open bowl of the shell. There is a clear benefit from this. They are eaten with shallots, bread or pepper.

Oysters are served on a large platter on a layer of ice. Lemon slices are laid out in the center, the juice of which is poured over the clam carcass before eating it. In many restaurants, so that guests do not get hurt from cuts on the sharp edges of the shells, they are served opened along with special two-pronged forks. If the shells are served whole, then the table is served with special knives for opening the shellfish.

Home storage

The most wonderful option for those living on the seaside is to go to the fish market and choose fresh healthy, freshly caught oysters. But if necessary, they can be stored in the refrigerator on the top shelf for up to 7 days. To do this, the shells are laid out on ice, and covered with a damp towel on top. You can also keep shellfish free. The temperature should be between 1 and 4 ° C.

Store frozen oysters are stored according to the manufacturer's conditions for 3-4 months without losing their properties. After thawing, such a product needs to be eaten by the rhinestone. Re-freezing is not allowed, as the consistency and taste of the meat may change, which will harm health.

Sealed containers and jars of oysters can be stored as long as the manufacturer indicates on the packaging. Once opened, they are stored in the refrigerator for 2 days.

Diet food and weight loss

Any seafood contains proteins that are in no way inferior to the elements found in meat. In addition, due to the presence of only 2 g of fat per 100 g of the product, oysters are perfect for feeding girls and women who want to lose weight, if there are no contraindications to the use of this product.

Due to the easily digestible proteins, as well as the low calorie content (72 calories per 100 grams), nutritionists recommend oysters for proper dietary nutrition while losing weight. Healthy seafood perfectly replenishes all the missing minerals and vitamins for those who limit themselves in the consumption of certain foods.

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Today, many products that were previously considered rare and exotic can be bought in almost any major supermarket. These include the inhabitants of the warm seas of the Mediterranean - oysters. Shellfish are able to give an unforgettable taste experience and enrich the body with many useful substances. How to cook, eat and choose them, as well as the calorie content of oysters and all their benefits will be described in the article.

Product description

Oysters are classified as bivalve molluscs. They are often confused with mussels, but in reality there is a huge chasm between them. Oysters can be eaten raw, but mussels are not, moreover, the former have an irregularly shaped asymmetrical shell, and they can only be caught in the warm waters of certain seas.

The calorie content of 1 oyster depends on the origin of the product and its size. Those individuals who are served raw usually do not exceed 12 cm in size. Larger mollusks are cooked by heat treatment.

Chemical composition

In terms of nutritional value and the amount of various nutrients, mollusks are superior to any type of fish. They are the main source of fatty acids, vitamins and minerals. The calorie content of oysters per 100 grams is approximately 60-80 Kcal, depending on growing conditions, catch time and age. At the same time, proteins occupy more than 50% of the mass of the product, carbohydrates 31%, and fats account for only 12%, most of which are represented by unsaturated fatty acids.

The product contains vitamins of group B, A, C, D, calcium, magnesium, zinc, manganese, phosphorus, iodine, cobalt, chromium and fluorine. All of them make up the full daily intake of nutrients for the human body in one serving.

By the way, it is not difficult to determine the calorie content of 1 piece of oyster. Most often, 100 g of the product contains just one serving served in a restaurant - there are necessarily 6 shells with clams in it.

The benefits of seafood

Vitamins in oysters have a beneficial effect on vision, accelerate wound healing, normalize metabolism, kidney function, nervous and cardiovascular systems. Also, the product strengthens the protective functions of the body, the endocrine system, has an antioxidant effect, helps accelerate the treatment of skin diseases and cleanses the body of cholesterol.

Calcium and Vitamin D strengthen bone tissue and increase testosterone production. Zinc stimulates reproductive function, improves the condition of hair, skin and nails, helps to increase muscle mass and strengthens the immune system. Iodine normalizes the thyroid gland and enriches tissues with oxygen.

Other minerals in the composition promote the absorption of iron, increase the activity of leukocytes, and prevent the development of diabetes mellitus and cancer.

Regular consumption of shellfish improves overall health, performance and endurance, and eliminates irritability. The low calorie content of oysters, combined with their benefits, helps girls get rid of cellulite and lose extra pounds.

Shellfish treatment

In medicine, many useful properties of the composition of the product have long been used by specialists as additional means in the treatment of various diseases. So, in the presence of cancerous tumors, oyster meat helps to stop the growth of harmful cells. A high concentration of zinc is considered an excellent prevention of anemia.

After eating shellfish, a person calms down, his sleep is normalized, the work of internal organs becomes full, and vision improves. A large amount of amino acids in oysters is useful not only for men's health, but also for women. Their use facilitates the course of menopause and increases libido.

If you have an allergy to seafood, diseases of the intestines, stomach, spleen, during pregnancy and when feeding a child, it is not recommended to eat shellfish.

Use in cosmetology

The low calorie content of oysters and all their beneficial properties help to improve the appearance of each person, even with the usual consumption of the product in food. In addition, experts use shellfish shell powder in thalassotherapy, and body proteins in various anti-aging serums and masks.

Product harm

Serious allergic reactions of any kind can cause oysters in people with sensitivity to seafood. In addition, before eating, you should make sure that the product is fresh. The oysters must be still alive. An open shell indicates that the shellfish is stale and the risk of food poisoning is high. Also, it must be whole. In the presence of even small chips, there is a possibility of sharp solid particles entering the digestive tract and damage to its mucous membranes.

It is undesirable to use the product in the summer. As a rule, the catch during this period is generally prohibited, since the mollusks begin to reproduce. Oysters caught at this time will be more fatty, and their taste will be noticeably reduced.

Usage rules

Only fresh shellfish bring maximum benefit to the body. The cooked product loses some of the nutrients and changes the calorie content. Oysters in expensive restaurants are served on an ice cushion, open or still closed. A portion is 6, and depending on the number of guests, one dish can contain up to 24 shells.

Before eating, clam meat should be sprinkled with lemon juice or a special sour sauce. In this case, his body must necessarily wrinkle, which indicates the freshness of the product.

You can eat oysters using a special fork or just from the sink.

How to open the sink

If the restaurant serves still closed molluscs to the table or they need to be opened at home, then you will need to prepare a special oyster knife. The device has a short blade sharpened on both sides and a handle with a hand guard. You can also use a regular knife. How many calories are in the oysters or what their size is, the opening technology does not change.

First, you need to rinse the sink from the remnants of sand and algae, then wrap it in a towel and leave only the gap between the shutters open. The flat sash should be on top. The oyster in this position should be placed on the table and pressed firmly. The edge of the knife is inserted between the flaps and turns slightly until it clicks.

After that, with a blade, you need to open the entire shell and cut through the muscle that holds the lid without injuring the body of the oyster. For this, the knife is pressed against the top flap from the inside. After that, the lid is carefully removed, the lower muscle is trimmed - and the product is ready for use. Frozen oysters are first boiled directly in the shell for a minute, and then opened and eaten.

Sauces

The calorie content of an oyster per 100 grams does not differ at all from the calorie content of a cooked product when consumed raw with sauce. The classic version is prepared as follows:

finely chop a glass of shallots or red;
the crushed product is poured with 100 ml of wine vinegar;
add 2 tbsp to the mixture. l. sherry vinegar, a little white pepper and sugar.

Before use, the product must be infused in a cool place for 60-90 minutes.

The second option for a seafood supplement consists of:

100 ml lime juice;
100 ml wine vinegar;
2 tsp soy sauce;
50 ml of white wine.

Mixed products are infused for 30-40 minutes and, if desired, can be supplemented with various seasonings and spices.

To date, there are about 50 types of oysters, and not all of them are edible.

To protect their bodies from infection by various bacteria, many people prefer to eat shellfish only after heat treatment. At the same time, the calories of the oyster may increase with the addition of additional products or remain the same if the shellfish are boiled in their own liquid.

To prepare, the shells can be left unopened and thrown into boiling water for 60 seconds, or the shells can be removed from them and boiled in oyster liquid with the addition of lemon juice (also for just a minute).

You can cook the product in the microwave. To do this, leave their meat on the lower sink, sprinkle with sauce and cook on medium power for 5 minutes. In a double boiler, oysters are brought to the desired state for 7-10 minutes, and in a multicooker - only two.

You can also cook oysters in a frying pan by placing the bodies of the shellfish in the liquid. They should be kept on fire until the sauce is almost completely evaporated.

You can cook shellfish with vegetables in the oven, but this will increase the calorie content of one piece. Oysters for this should already be shell-free. How to extract them is described above. For one onion, 2 bell peppers and 0.5 celery root, you will need a glass of shellfish. Vegetables are pre-fried in butter for a couple of minutes, after which a little garlic, spices to taste and half a glass of water are added to them. When the liquid boils, parsley is added, and the dish is stewed for 5-7 minutes. After that, oysters, grated cheese and chopped loaf are added to the pan. Everything is baked for exactly one hour until a crust forms at a temperature of 150 degrees.

Storage

At a temperature of 1-4 degrees, shellfish in a shell can be stored for up to a week. After their death, the product cannot be eaten, it should only be disposed of. Frozen shellfish (without shells) can be stored for up to four months, the product in an open jar can be stored for 2 days. To preserve the juiciness of the shells in the refrigerator, cover them with a damp towel, sprinkle them with ice and place only the flat lid on top. The finished dish with oysters remains usable for three days.

Delicacy oysters are bivalve molluscs of the southern tropical seas. Unlike salt water lovers, trepangs, they are found almost in river mouths, preferring more fresh water. Oysters have been fished for over 2000 years. Images of their shells can be found in ancient sources. At all times, people ate raw oysters, and in the newest, they also began to pour lemon juice. Today it is one of the most expensive food items, a gastronomic delight, a hallmark of French and American blended cuisine. Like other shellfish, they are a source of protein, fat, as well as vitamins and minerals.

The content of the article:

Like many others seafood oysters are low in calories. A total of 72 kcal per 100 g, predominantly from protein. Oyster meat contains traces of glycogen and omega-three fats, but it is valued for more than that. It is believed that oyster meat protein is one of the complete, easily digestible ones. Therefore, at all times, these seafood has been recommended for those recovering from injuries, operations and various physical overloads.

They are one of the quality sources of iodine. The mineral is recommended not only for active mental work, but also for everyone who seeks to lose weight. Iodine improves the function of the human thyroid gland. If the secretion of her hormones is reduced, we can gain weight, become lethargic and lethargic for no apparent reason. It is also important to make up for iodine deficiency for good growth and development of children. In addition, iodine in food can improve the response of the immune system as well. Oysters are eaten raw, therefore, heat treatment does not affect the iodine content in them.

Oysters are considered the food of good lovers. On the one hand, they contain aphrodisiacs that support arousal, and on the other, they are a good source of zinc, which makes them beneficial for the hormonal system. Oysters are a component of various diets for conception, too, as they have a beneficial effect on the hormonal background of a woman.

The product is a source of omega-three fatty acids, of course not as rich as red fish or Cod liver, but complete enough.

Oysters also provide iron, B vitamins, and especially B12 and riboflavin. Often this product is recommended to eat for various disorders of the retina of the eye, diseases of the organs of vision.

Some sources call the meat of these shellfish a natural immunomodulator that can save us from obsessive colds and inflammation. However, how much this aspect of the influence of oysters has been studied is not explained.

Oysters contain provitamin D3. In the human body, vitamin D is formed from it, which in its chemical structure and action is closer to prohormones. Vitamin D, or rather its deficiency, is often blamed for all the problems of a modern person, such as lethargy and obesity. In fact, most adults lack it and seafood will help fix that.

Oysters are rich in thiamine, which is responsible for the health of the nervous system. Many sources mention that this product is natural antidepressant and a means to optimize the functioning of the nervous system. Oysters also contain tryptophan, a natural "sedative" amino acid that promotes optimal brain function, fast sleep, deep sleep and good rest. Tryptophan is also said to be responsible for feelings of happiness. So many sources cite oysters as a great natural uplifting food.

And most women's sites claim that oysters are a good remedy for cellulite... Yes, if you have the money to eat it regularly. The mineral composition of the product includes iodine and magnesium, both trace elements contribute to the normalization of the water-salt balance.

Oysters are grown in artificial conditions too, on oyster farms, but the most valuable are natural sea oysters. They are also the most expensive, by the way.

Unfortunately, not all people can appreciate the taste of oysters. This product is either immediately liked or disgusted. Moreover, the latter option is not so rare. Gourmets say that the wrongly chosen lemon juice is to blame for everything, but in fact, not everyone will really appreciate the need to open a live mollusk with a special knife and "drink" its gelatinous body. For especially squeamish comrades, recipes have been invented with baking oysters in the oven for 3 minutes, but this does not change the essence.

And not all oysters are a gourmet delicacy. Sometimes this term is called simple grape snails, of which there are a million on any plantation of this plant. They also eat snails, but they are just boiled, and not consumed raw. Snail meat also contains a lot of protein, is practically fat-free and useful for anyone who wants to get the whole set. essential amino acids.

Oysters are only purchased fresh. They must be alive. How can they be "identified"? The shells of a live mollusc must be tightly closed. There should not be any chips. If, when opening, the body of the mollusk does not tremble, it is dead, and you cannot eat the oyster.

This gourmet product is not frozen or canned. On sale you can find oyster sauce, and special knives to open the clams.

How to cook and eat oysters

When cooked, the oyster protein quickly denatures and spoils the taste. It is believed that the maximum temperature processing of this product is 3-4 minutes in the oven at 180 degrees. If any dish is chosen, the oysters are washed, their flaps are opened with a sharp knife and baked on a baking sheet. But all the same, it will not work to show culinary talents in all their glory - in any case, a person prepares butter sauce for oysters, and not the seafood itself.

The most "correct" way to eat oysters is considered to be eating them raw fresh. The shellfish are washed, cleaned of sand and twigs and laid out on a dish. They are served with a knife to open oysters, which is used to open their shell. The body of the oyster is sprinkled with lemon sauce or juice and "drunk" straight from the shell. It is believed that classic cooking can only offer oyster sauce, but cooking themselves.

Related videos:

Oyster Recipes

Oysters with lemon juice

Rinse 12 oysters and soak for 3 minutes in salted water. Open the flaps by placing the knife on the thicker part of the sink first. Serve on crushed ice, chopped separately lemon and sea salt. In restaurants, oysters are usually covered with a napkin before serving.

Oysters with salad

12 large oysters for 4 servings. Small packaging corn eaten on the cob, baby carrots, bell peppers and tomatoes. A pair of avocados and passion fruit for the sauce, a tablespoon of olive oil if desired. Lemon juice and dill optional.

Rinse the oysters, soak in salted water, open, and remove from the shells onto a plate (optional, they are usually served directly in the halves of the shells). Steam the corn, chop the rest of the vegetables. Avocado and the passionfruit and half the butter, turn into a sauce with a blender. Season salad, separately in a gravy boat to oysters, serve oil mixed with lemon juice.

"Sea" snack - jelly with oysters

Package of gelatin, 1 glass of fish broth, 200 g of the usual seafood mix "sea cocktail" or take equal parts of frozen mussels, mini-octopus and shrimps. 4 large oysters, natural tablespoon black caviar and a little sour cream, as well as dill.

Soak gelatin in water according to the instructions. Steam the seafood mixture and arrange in 4 bowls or mini-molds for jellied meat. Heat the broth, dissolve the gelatin in it, and pour over the seafood. Leave in the refrigerator for 3-4 hours. Just before serving the snack, open the oysters with a knife and place them on top of the jelly. Garnish with a teaspoon of caviar and sour cream, lightly whipped in a blender.

Three oyster sauces

With shallots: Chop 2 small onions in a blender with olive oil and lemon juice.

With avocado: beat lemon juice and avocado with olive oil.

Oysters in the oven

Rinse 12 oysters, soak in salted water for 3 minutes, open the shutters. Put in every piece asparagus and shallots, bake in the oven at 180 degrees for 3 minutes. Remove the oysters and pour the lemon juice over the top. "Hot" oysters are served on crushed ice and with any sauces suitable for this dish.

Snack - assorted

12 oysters, 200 g scallop, avocado, ground ginger, lemon juice, peeled shrimp 200 g, skewers for mini-kebabs, electric grill or ordinary frying pan, onion and bell pepper if desired.

Sprinkle the grill with olive oil and skewer with the scallops and shrimp. You can alternate with slices of onion and bell pepper, fry until tender. Rinse the oysters, open, pour over with lemon juice. Serve a serving of 3 oysters and 1 seafood skewer on a separate tray. Grind the ginger and avocado with lemon juice with a blender to make the sauce. Usually oysters in any snacks are placed on crushed ice.

Oysters with Spicy Puree Soup

Stale oysters can cause severe food poisoning. In no case should you eat dead shellfish meat, even after heat treatment.

Sometimes sources write that oysters should not be eaten for various diseases of the gastrointestinal tract and the thyroid gland. They are absorbed too quickly and can cause digestive disorders.

Calorie content of oysters 72 kcal

Energy value of oysters (ratio of proteins, fats and carbohydrates):

Proteins: 9 g (36 kcal)
Fat: 2 g. (18 kcal)
Carbohydrates: 4.5 g (18 kcal)

Vitamins and minerals found in oysters

Energy ratio (B / W / U): 50% / 25% / 25%

Vitamins:

PP - 1.6 mg, A - 85 μg, B1 - 0.15 mg, B2 - 0.19 mg, C - 3 mg, E - 0.9 mg, PP - 3.5 mg.

Minerals:

calcium - 60 mg, magnesium - 40 mg, sodium - 90 mg, potassium - 220 mg, phosphorus - 140 mg, chlorine - 165 mg, sulfur - 90 mg, iron - 6.2 mg, zinc - 0.7 mg, chromium - 55 mcg, fluorine - 430 mcg, molybdenum - 4 mcg, nickel - 6 mcg.

Read on for useful information about other seafood:

Squid
Mussels
Shrimps
Octopus
Scallop
Crab
Trepang
Spiny lobster

Oyster video + recipe

Especially for - fitness trainer Elena Selivanova

Oyster (Ostreidae)

Description

The oyster belongs to the family of marine bivalve molluscs. In the shape of the shell, these molluscs can be flat and concave (deep). The outline of the shell is usually irregularly rounded or oval-wedge-shaped. They also vary in size: a giant oyster can be up to 40-45 cm in length, while in European species the shell length is 8-12 cm. In their natural habitat, there are about 50 species of oysters. All of them - filter feeders - pass seawater through the mantle cavity, concentrating heavy metals in the body. In one hour, an oyster can filter 3 liters of water. Oysters start spawning (up to 500 million eggs per season) in spring and finish by the end of summer. They can live alone, but most often they form colonies - multi-layered settlements, which are called oyster banks.

Spreading

Oysters prefer relatively warm waters, they can be found off the shores of the Black and Japan Seas, in the Mediterranean and Atlantic, in the Indian and Pacific Oceans. Choosing water with a low salt content, molluscs often settle at river estuaries, in the ebb and flow zone, very close to the coast or at a depth of 1 meter, although some types of oysters are found at a depth of 60-70 meters. Oyster settlements can stretch along the coast for a distance of 300-400 meters. The uncontrolled fishing of these molluscs for many centuries led to the fact that already in the middle of the 19th century the question arose of regulating the collection of oysters and their artificial breeding (by the way, the ancient Romans were able to artificially grow oysters). Currently, the leaders in oyster breeding are Japan, the USA, France, where oysters are called "pearls of French cuisine."

Application

This seafood delicacy was used for food several thousand years ago. Usually oysters are eaten live and raw, served on crushed ice and drizzled with lemon juice. In order to open the shells of the shells, a special oyster knife is used - with a short blade and a pointed end, with a guard on the handle that protects the hands from the sharp edges of the shell. However, in restaurants, as a rule, in order to avoid ridiculous situations and incidents, oysters are served already open and with a special two-pronged oyster fork. You can also season the clam with black pepper, or dip it in vinegar and shallots. In addition, dry white wine is served with oysters. There are about a hundred recipes for dishes with oysters, because they can be boiled, fried, baked, deep-fried and in batter. Fresh oysters can be bought all year round today, but gourmets believe that these clams are tastier in autumn and winter. Oysters thawed after defrosting and floating in liquid are cooked immediately; they cannot be frozen a second time.

Composition and properties

Oyster meat contains very little fat, but a lot of protein, carbohydrates, vitamins B1, B2 and PP, A, D and minerals, including iron, copper, calcium, iodine, phosphorus. The unique chemical composition of molluscs has a tonic effect on the nervous system.

Interesting fact

It is believed that oysters enhance sexual energy, so it is not surprising that Casanova, the famous hero-lover (18th century), ate 50 oysters at breakfast. Already in our time, American scientists have found that oysters are rich in rare amino acids, which contribute to the production of a large number of sex hormones.

How many oysters to cook

Oysters are eaten raw, but you can boil them for one minute.

Calorie content and nutritional value of oysters

The calorie content of oysters is 72 kcal.

Nutritional value of oysters: proteins - 9 g, fats - 2 g, carbohydrates - 4.5 g

This article discusses oysters. We will tell you how oysters are useful and how they are eaten, whether there is any harm from their use. You will learn about the calorie content of the product, how to properly cook oysters.

Oysters are members of the family of marine bivalve molluscs, which have a characteristic asymmetric irregular shell. They are found in warm seas.

The size of oysters varies: the giant oyster can reach a length of about 40 cm, but European species usually have shells ranging from 8 to 12 cm long. Currently, there are about 50 types of oysters.

Mussels are close to oysters in composition and appearance. But at the same time, the latter have a simpler and coarser taste. These products are not interchangeable, their differences lie in the way of life and methods of transportation. Mussels are not eaten raw, like oysters, and they contain a lot of sand.

Oyster composition

Oyster meat is a highly nutritious and high-quality product that surpasses even fish in these indicators. The composition includes:

fats;
a lot of protein;
carbohydrates;
vitamin A - has a positive effect on vision, normalizes metabolism, is effective in healing wounds, heals skin diseases;
B vitamins - normalize the activity of the kidneys, nervous and cardiovascular systems, protect the body from pellagra, reduce the amount of “bad” cholesterol;
vitamin C - increases the activity of the endocrine glands, strengthens the walls of blood vessels, has antioxidant properties, increases immunity, improves overall well-being;
vitamin D - strengthens bone and dental tissue, increases immunity, increases testosterone production, protects against skeletal deformation and prevents the development of rickets;
nicotinic acid - activates regeneration processes, supports the work of the heart, liver and kidneys;
manganese - participates in the synthesis of neurotransmitters, affects the growth and development of bone tissue, prevents the development of diabetes mellitus;
zinc - strengthens the immune system, helps build muscle mass, is important for the proper formation of the fetus;
iodine - increases oxygen consumption by tissues;
phosphorus - takes part in protein synthesis, maintains bone and dental tissue in a healthy state;
chromium - maintains a normal balance of glucose in the blood serum, takes part in the synthesis of nucleic acids, reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases;
cobalt - participates in the formation of thyroid hormones, increases the absorption of iron, increases the activity of leukocytes;
fluorine - strengthens bone tissue, prevents the development of caries, participates in the processes of hematopoiesis.

The calorie content of oysters is approximately 60 Kcal per 100 g of product.

Useful properties of an oyster

The rich chemical composition that gives oysters such an excellent taste and aroma has a calming effect on the nervous system. And the vitamins and minerals present in the composition fully replenish the body's daily need for these elements. Oysters are ideal seafood for people who care about their health and appearance.

Zinc present in the product has a positive effect on hair, nails and skin. This element is also useful for men, because it improves reproductive function and increases libido, which is also beneficial for women.

The systematic use of oysters helps to improve the emotional state, eliminate irritability and cellulite!

Oyster harm

Despite the enormous benefits for the body, in some cases, the use of oysters can be very harmful. This delicacy must be eaten only fresh, otherwise the likelihood of food poisoning is high.

These seafood should not be consumed by pregnant and lactating women, as well as people with diseases of the digestive tract and spleen, as complications are likely.

When eating a clam, inspect it carefully to make sure there are no debris from the shell. Otherwise, the risk of damage to the mucous membrane of the digestive tract increases.

How to eat oysters

Now it's time to talk about how oysters are eaten. To maximize the benefits of the product, eat oysters raw. Serve the dish on pieces of ice and sprinkle the seafood with lemon juice - this option is considered a classic. Season the oyster with black pepper if desired, or dip it in a special vinegar sauce.

The restaurant serves oysters open with a special 2-prong oyster fork. And this option is considered ideal, especially if you are just getting to know this dish.

How to open oysters at home? To do this, you will need a special knife with a short blade and a protective device on the handle, which will protect your hand from damage from the sharp edges of the shells.

If you do not have such a knife, then use a regular knife with a short blade. And then proceed according to the instructions below:

Rinse the seafood in cold water, then remove the remaining sand from it.
Wrap the oyster in a towel to avoid injury.
Place the food on a table, lid side up, then press down with your hand.
Insert the tip of the knife between the shells, and then begin to make slow rotational movements until you hear a characteristic sound.
Run a knife along the entire length of the gap between the flaps.
Cut the oyster muscle holding the shutters closed. At the same time, press the knife from the inside to the upper flap to avoid damaging the body of the mollusk.
Open the sink carefully to prevent the juice from spilling out, then remove the top flap.
Use a knife to run under the body of the clam to cut the lower muscle that holds the oyster to the shell.

Oysters can be eaten not only fresh, but also boiled, baked, fried and even cooked in batter. You can buy fresh oysters throughout the year in specialized stores. But gourmets recommend using them in winter and autumn, as they are tastier at this time.

Remember, if the oyster does not show signs of life when opening the shell, then it is strictly forbidden to eat it!

Cook frozen oysters immediately after defrosting. Cook them for no more than a minute. Of course, boiled oysters lose most of their beneficial properties, but the taste is still great!

Oyster recipe

Below we will tell you about the most delicious recipe for making oysters.

Rockefeller oysters

This dish is served only in expensive restaurants.

Ingredients:

oysters - 4 pcs (large);
butter - 2.5 tablespoons;
garlic - 1 clove;
shallots - 1 pc;
green onions - 2-3 feathers;
parsley - 50 g;
spinach - 100 g;
salt and white pepper - to taste;
Tabasco sauce - 2 g;
crushed crackers - 30 g;
pineapple liqueur - 3 ml.

How to cook:

Wash, sand the oysters, then open them.
Preheat oven to 230 degrees.
Place the seafood on a baking sheet.
Chop the herbs and garlic finely. Melt the butter in a frying pan, pour the chopped herbs and garlic into it. Put out, stirring constantly.
Add the rest of the ingredients and cook for another 3 minutes.
Distribute the resulting composition evenly between and over the oysters.
Place the baking sheet in the oven for 10 minutes, then remove it and serve immediately.

How to store oysters

If you bought live oysters and some of them died during storage, then they must be thrown away. Such seafood should not be consumed, as they can cause enormous harm to the body.

Storing oysters at home is possible only if certain rules are followed:

Store oysters in the refrigerator only. If they are alive, then inspect them daily and remove the dead.
Ice will help preserve the juiciness of seafood. Sprinkle ice cubes over the oysters and change as it melts.
If storing oysters on ice, place them in a colander to drain into another container.
Ice helps preserve the flavor of the seafood, but does not prolong the shelf life.
When storing oysters in shells, arrange them so the clams are facing up. Otherwise, the juiciness of seafood will decrease significantly.
It is recommended to use a damp towel when storing seafood in the refrigerator. Cover the oysters with a damp towel.
Place oysters close to the freezer.
You can store your oysters in the freezer if you remove the clams from the shell first.
Defrost oysters in the refrigerator without adding water.
Pasteurized or canned oysters should be stored for as long as indicated on the packaging. After opening the package, the shelf life and storage time is reduced.
Do not store live oysters in bags or airtight containers, as this will kill them.
Keep live oysters only in the refrigerator, being in a room or freezer is destructive for them.
Cooked oysters remain fresh for three days, after which the meat becomes tough and resembles rubber.

Best before date

The shelf life of live oysters stored in the refrigerator and sprinkled with ice is one week. Also, in this case, you should additionally use a damp towel, otherwise the seafood will lose its juiciness.

The shelf life of oysters with an open shell on the top shelf of the refrigerator is 5-7 days. In this case, the temperature should be from 1 to 4 degrees Celsius.

The shelf life of frozen oysters is 3-4 months, and the product must not be re-frozen. Be sure to eat thawed oysters! If the product is re-frozen, the taste and texture of the meat will change, and the seafood itself will be dangerous to your health.

Store oysters in open jars for no more than two days. When the package is closed, the storage time will be the same as indicated on the package.

If you purchased frozen oysters, place them in the freezer for further storage, or defrost them in the refrigerator if you decide to eat them right away.