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The Ultimate Guide to Delicious Oyster Varieties

Oysters are a delicacy, and beyond the common rock and milk oysters, there is a myriad of other oyster varieties that are equally delectable, especially when enjoyed raw with a dash of mustard. From now on, let's embark on an exploration of the diverse world of oysters and uncover the secrets to selecting the finest ones.

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6 September, 2024

Oysters: A Delicacy with Numerous Health Benefits

Oysters are bivalve mollusks, similar to clams, that are commonly purchased by people to be cooked in various dishes such as grilled oysters, oyster porridge, or even eaten raw. According to some, oysters are not only delicious but are also believed to have aphrodisiac properties for men. This article will help you learn about some of the common types of oysters available in the market and their prices.

1Milk Oysters

The most familiar type of oyster to people is the milk oyster. These oysters are small, about 5-6 cm long, with a round, milky-white shell, and are usually farmed in Long Son, Can Gio, Vung Tau, Nha Trang, and Da Nang. However, the highest-quality milk oysters come from Van Don in Quang Ninh province, as this area has pristine seas with favorable natural conditions and clean water, making it an ideal habitat for milk oysters.

The meat of these oysters is slightly yellow, firm, and round, containing milk, which gives it a rich, sweet, and slightly salty taste with a hint of sea salt. Milk oysters typically cost around 30,000 VND per kg.

2Rock Oysters

Rock oysters are a common sight in restaurants and eateries, often served raw with soy sauce or wasabi. These oysters are large, measuring about 11-12 cm in length and 5-7 cm in width, with a rugged shell resembling rocks, hence their name.

Rock oysters have long, chewy meat that is slightly yellow, with a grayish border. They have a similar taste to clams or mussels but with a richer, fattier flavor. Rock oysters typically cost around 40,000 VND per kg.

3French Milk Oysters

In addition to rock oysters and the commonly seen milk oysters, Vietnam also imports a variety of oysters, including French milk oysters, which are considered one of the best milk oyster varieties available today.

French milk oysters are small and compact, about 5-6 cm wide and 10-12 cm long, with a characteristic milky-white shell. Their shell has two parts: one part protrudes, while the other is flat and loosely attached, making it easy to detach.

The meat of these oysters is slightly yellow, firm, and round, with a rich, buttery taste. They are delicious when eaten raw with mustard. Unseparated French milk oysters cost approximately 40,000 VND per kg.

4American Oysters

American oysters are native to the coastal waters of North America. Their quality is considered superior to that of regular oysters due to their larger size and meatier, fattier texture.

American oysters are commonly used in Western dishes such as spaghetti or grilled dishes. They are quite expensive, with a live American oyster costing around 60,000 VND each.

These are some of the common and delicious oyster varieties that you can easily find in markets or supermarkets. Oysters are not only a tasty delicacy but also a rich source of nutrients that boost your immune system and provide essential nutrients to your body.

Frequently asked questions

Oysters are a type of bivalve mollusk, which means they have two shells hinged together that can open and close.

Some popular varieties include the Eastern Oyster, Pacific Oyster, and European Flat Oyster. Each variety has unique characteristics and flavors.

Shucking oysters can be tricky. You’ll need a special knife called an oyster knife. Insert the knife into the hinge, twist, and pop it open. Be careful not to spill the delicious liquor inside.

Raw oysters are a delicacy and can be enjoyed straight from the shell with a squeeze of lemon or a mignonette sauce. You can also grill, bake, or fry them for a different flavor profile.

Oysters are an excellent source of zinc, iron, and omega-3 fatty acids. They’re also low in calories and packed with protein, making them a nutritious addition to your diet.

It’s best to enjoy oysters during months with the letter ‘r’ in them, like September through April. This is when oysters are at their plumpest and most delicious.