Chinese American Style Oysters Bienville

Ingredients

In this Chinese American adaptation of Oysters Bienville, we incorporate Chinese spices and flavors to enhance the dish. The original American version typically includes ingredients like bacon, green onions, and Worcestershire sauce. However, in this Chinese American version, we replace the bacon with shrimp, add mushrooms for an earthy taste, and infuse the dish with Chinese spices such as ginger and five-spice powder. The final touch of soy sauce adds a distinct Chinese flavor profile to the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Oysters Bienville, so you can check it out.

• 12 fresh oysters 12 fresh oysters
• 1/2 cup (120g) cooked shrimp, finely chopped 1/2 cup (120g) cooked shrimp, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup (30g) mushrooms, finely chopped 1/4 cup (30g) mushrooms, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons (30g) butter 2 tablespoons (30g) butter
• 2 tablespoons (15g) all-purpose flour 2 tablespoons (15g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (120ml) milk 1/2 cup (120ml) milk
• 1/4 teaspoon ginger powder 1/4 teaspoon ginger powder
• 1/4 teaspoon five-spice powder 1/4 teaspoon five-spice powder
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) soy sauce 2 tablespoons (30ml) soy sauce
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 9g, 5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 12g, 2g
• Protein: 13g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. 2.
   Shuck the oysters and place them on a baking sheet.
3. 3.
   In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped shrimp and mushrooms, and sauté until cooked through.
4. 4.
   Sprinkle the flour over the shrimp and mushrooms, stirring continuously for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
5. 5.
   Slowly pour in the milk while stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
6. 6.
   Add the ginger powder, five-spice powder, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
7. 7.
   Spoon the shrimp and mushroom mixture over each oyster, covering them completely.
8. 8.
   Bake the oysters in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the topping is golden and bubbly.
9. 9.
   Drizzle the soy sauce over the baked oysters and garnish with fresh cilantro.
10. 10.
    Serve hot and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Shrimp — Make sure to finely chop the cooked shrimp to ensure even distribution throughout the dish.
• Mushrooms — Finely chop the mushrooms to create a smooth and cohesive texture in the topping.
• Soy sauce — Use a high-quality soy sauce for the best flavor. Adjust the amount according to your taste preference.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the shrimp and mushroom mixture.
• Experiment with different types of mushrooms, such as shiitake or oyster mushrooms, to add unique flavors to the dish.
• Serve the oysters with a side of steamed rice or noodles to make it a more substantial meal.
• If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute the milk with coconut milk for a hint of tropical flavor.
• Garnish the dish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a refreshing twist.

Serving advice

Serve the Chinese American Style Oysters Bienville as an appetizer or as part of a seafood-themed dinner. Arrange the oysters on a platter and garnish with fresh cilantro for an elegant presentation. Provide small forks or spoons for easy enjoyment.

Presentation advice

To elevate the presentation, place the oysters on a bed of rock salt or crushed ice to mimic the look of a seafood bar. Add a sprig of fresh herbs, such as dill or parsley, for an extra pop of color.