The dish dates back to the 1800s.
Carson Downing
For many people in the United States, oyster stew is aChristmas eve tradition.
Thecreamy soup recipeis made with fresh oysters, milk, and butter.
Our Test Kitchen likes to flavor each bowl with a bit of onion, celery, and nutmeg.
Here’s our classic recipe for oyster stew, including a quick overview of the soup’s holiday history.
Why Is Oyster Stew a Christmas Tradition?
Oyster stew became a holiday tradition in the mid-1800s when Irish immigrants first came to the United States.
In Ireland, a soup made with dried ling fish was a popularChristmas eve meal.
Ingredients
1pt.
(about3dozen)shucked oysters, undrained (about1lb.)
Make Soup
In a 2- to 3-qt.
pot melt butter over medium.
Add onion, celery, and salt; cook, stirring occasionally, until tender, about 10 minutes.
Add flour, black pepper, and cayenne pepper; cook and stir 2 minutes more.
Gradually whisk in milk and half-and-half.
Bring to a simmer, stirring gently.
Finish and Serve
Stir in drained oysters.
Cook until oysters curl around the edges, 3 to 5 minutes.
Stir in oyster liquor and sherry; heat through.
If you like, add additional sherry to taste.
Top servings with nutmeg and/or parsley, if using.
How to Store Oyster Stew
This oyster stew recipe is best enjoyed the day it is made.
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge and each within a day.
Can You Freeze Oyster Stew?
you could freeze oyster stew for up to one month.
Our Test Kitchen recommends portioning the stew into individual servings before freezing.
The texture may change slightly when frozen.
For the best results, reheat the homemade oyster stew on the stove.
2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
Oyster Stew: An American Tradition.
University of Wyoming Extension.
Published November 24, 2020.
Accessed November 25, 2024.
