Oysters with a Smoky Twist

Ingredients

• 12 fresh oysters 12 fresh oysters
• 4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled 4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Lemon wedges, for serving Lemon wedges, for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 4g, 1g
• Protein: 14g
• Fiber: 0g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. 2.
   Shuck the oysters and place them on a baking sheet or grill-safe tray.
3. 3.
   Drizzle Worcestershire sauce over each oyster.
4. 4.
   Sprinkle the crumbled bacon evenly over the oysters.
5. 5.
   Top each oyster with a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese.
6. 6.
   Season with freshly ground black pepper.
7. 7.
   Place the oysters on the grill and cook for about 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. 8.
   Remove the oysters from the grill and let them cool slightly.
9. 9.
   Serve the Oysters Kirkpatrick with lemon wedges on the side.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Oysters — Ensure that the oysters are fresh and properly shucked before grilling. Discard any oysters with broken shells or those that do not close tightly when tapped.
• Bacon — Cook the bacon until crispy before crumbling it over the oysters. This will add a delightful crunch and smoky flavor to the dish.

Tips & Tricks

• If you prefer a spicier kick, add a dash of hot sauce or sprinkle some chili flakes over the oysters before grilling.
• For a variation, try using different types of cheese such as Gruyere or blue cheese for a unique flavor profile.
• Serve the Oysters Kirkpatrick with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad to complete the meal.
• If you don't have access to a grill, you can also bake the oysters in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
• Experiment with different toppings such as chopped fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice for added freshness.

Serving advice

Serve the Oysters Kirkpatrick as an appetizer or part of a seafood platter. Arrange the grilled oysters on a large platter and garnish with lemon wedges for squeezing over the oysters. Provide small forks or cocktail picks for easy enjoyment.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, place the grilled oysters on a bed of rock salt or crushed ice. This not only adds an elegant touch but also helps to keep the oysters chilled.