Oyster Shooter

We love our family get togethers. They usually involve great food, a lot of laughter and some pretty delicious booze. One of our go-to special occasion drinks is an Oyster Shooter. If you are a Hegele, then skip to the next paragraph because you know what this is. For all those other folks out there, an Oyster Shooter is my second favorite way to eat a raw oyster (the first being just plain). There are four simple components:

1. Raw oyster
2. Vodka (optional, but highly suggested)
3. Bloody Mary mix (Zing Zang is the best store bought)
4. Salt and/or hot sauce

The Oyster Shooter is one that I obviously didn't try until later in my life (after 21), but one that I look forward to on holidays or family special occasions. I realize that many people don't like oysters, that they are an acquired taste, that they are an aphrodisiac....blah blah blah! That's all ok with me, but I will tell you that if you like Bloody Mary's and you like oysters, then try this combination - you will love it.

I am partial to fresh oysters, but sometimes Whole Foods has some decent ones in a jar at the seafood counter. However, there is nothing like a fresh oyster pried open with your own hands.

I know it might be random to post this drink at the end of February, but I just couldn't help myself, especially as oyster season comes to an end. I love them, my family eats (and drinks) a lot of them. They are little treasures from the sea. So enjoy this little treasure, from my family to yours! Bottoms up!

Oyster Shooter

Yields: 1 shot

Prep Time: 2 minutes

1 raw oyster (cut in half if large)

1 ounce Bloody Mary mix or tomato juice

1/2 ounce chilled Vodka

salt to taste
hot sauce to taste

In a large or tall shot glass, place the oyster at the bottom, pour in the vodka gently, then top with the Bloody Mary mix and sprinkle of salt. Cheers with the person next to you and take it down! (Remember to chew the oyster)