Smoking oysters on a propane grill can be a delicious way to prepare these shellfish. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to do it by Papa Ken at Maine Grilling Products.
Ingredients:
- Fresh oysters in the shell
- Wood chips (such as apple, hickory, or mesquite) for smoking
- Olive oil or melted butter
- Seasonings of your choice (garlic, herbs, lemon juice, etc.)
Equipment:
- Propane grill with a lid
- Smoker box for the wood chips
- Tongs
- Shucking knife or oyster knife
- Oven mitts or heat-resistant gloves
Instructions:
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Preheat the Grill:
- Start by preheating your propane grill. Aim for a temperature of around 225-250°F (107-121°C). Use only one burner for indirect cooking, so you have a cooler side of the grill.
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Soak the Wood Chips:
- While the grill is heating up, soak the wood chips in water for about 30 minutes or purchase some presoaked chips like Spiced Rum Hickory. This prevents them from burning too quickly and producing excessive smoke.
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Prepare the Oysters:
- While the wood chips are soaking, scrub the oyster shells under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris. Use a shucking knife or oyster knife to carefully open the oysters. Be cautious not to spill the oyster liquor (juice) inside the shell.
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Season the Oysters:
- Drizzle a small amount of olive oil or melted butter over the oysters. You can also add your choice of seasonings, such as minced garlic, herbs, lemon juice, or hot sauce, to taste.
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Prepare the Grill for Smoking:
- Drain the soaked wood chips and place them in a smoker box. Place the smoker box directly on the grill grates over the lit burner.
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Place the Oysters on the Grill:
- Arrange the seasoned oysters on the cool side of the grill, away from the direct heat. This is where they will smoke. Close the grill lid.
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Smoke the Oysters:
- Allow the oysters to smoke for about 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on the temperature inside the grill to ensure it stays in the 225-250°F (107-121°C) range. The oysters are done when they become plump and their edges start to curl.
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Serve and Enjoy:
- Carefully remove the smoked oysters from the grill using tongs or a heat-resistant glove. Serve them immediately while they're hot.
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Optional Sauce:
- You can serve the smoked oysters with a dipping sauce made from melted butter, garlic, lemon juice, and your favorite herbs and spices.
Remember to exercise caution when working with a hot grill and when shucking oysters, as both can be potentially hazardous. Enjoy your smoked oysters as a delicious appetizer or snack! Papa Ken