The Secret Sauce: Unveiling the Fascinating Facts About Oyster Sauce

The Accidental Birth of Oyster Sauce

The creation of oyster sauce was a happy accident. It is said that Lee Kam Sheung accidentally left a pot on the stove until it reduced to a dark, thick liquid. Intrigued, he tasted it and discovered a unique and appealing flavor. Thus, oyster sauce was born and has since become a beloved condiment.

Oyster Sauce May Not Actually Contain Oysters

Traditionally, oyster sauce was made by simmering oysters in water until they dissolved, resulting in a thick, brown liquid. Today, most oyster sauces are produced industrially using oyster extract and other ingredients like salt, sugar, and cornstarch. The amount of oyster extract in the product often reflects its quality.

Vegetarian Oyster Sauce: A Meat-Free Alternative

While classic oyster sauce is not vegetarian, there is now a vegetarian option made from oyster mushrooms. This plant-based alternative offers a similar flavor to traditional oyster sauce, making it a great choice for those following a vegetarian diet.

The Price of Oyster Sauce Varies

To enhance the flavor of oyster sauce, manufacturers add oyster extract and artificial oyster flavoring. The higher the proportion of real oyster extract, the better the quality and the higher the price tag.

Don’t Use Oyster Sauce for Stir-Frying

Unlike other cooking oils, oyster sauce is not suitable for stir-frying. It’s best to cook your food with another oil first and then add oyster sauce towards the end of the cooking process. Alternatively, you can marinate your food in oyster sauce before cooking it in oil.

Oyster Sauce Is Widely Available

You won’t have trouble finding oyster sauce in most supermarkets, grocery stores, and convenience stores. It’s a common condiment that adds a savory touch to many dishes.

Oyster sauce is a versatile and flavorful condiment. Happy cooking and enjoy the savory delights of oyster sauce!