If you live in the Wilmington or Holly Ridge area, the fresh briny taste of local oysters is a must-have. Knowing how to select the best oysters is an important first step toward an incredible culinary experience. Here are a few of our tips to help you choose the best oysters in Wilmington, Holly Ridge, and Stump Sound North Carolina.
Inspect the Shells - One of the first things you’ll do when selecting an oyster is inspecting the shell. The best oysters have a very tightly closed shell, this lets you know that they are alive and still very fresh. If the shell is slightly open try giving the oyster a gentle tap; it should immediately shut tightly. If it doesn’t close, try to avoid selecting this oyster as it could be dead.
Weigh it Out - A good oyster will always feel a little heavy for its size. The weightiness of the oyster will let you know that it’s well hydrated and plump. Lighter oysters may have lost their moisture that may affect the taste and texture.
Give it a Sniff - Fresh oysters should have a very clean and briny smell - almost like you’re smelling the sea itself. If you notice any foul odors, it’s a sign that the oyster isn’t fresh and it should be generally avoided.
Check the label - typically bags of oysters are labeled with details about their origins and the date they were harvested. Here at Soundside Oyster Company, our Stumpsound Roses and Soundside Salts are labeled accordingly so you know you’re getting the freshest North Carolina oysters available.
These are just a few tips to help you select the freshest and tastiest local North Carolina Oysters. Treat yourself to some delicious Stump Sound oysters and contact us today to place an order.