Outer Banks Oysters

Where Do Oysters Come From?

Oysters live in brackish and salty waters on hard, submerged surfaces. Wild oysters cluster together as they grow, forming reefs that are essential habitats for other marine life. In recent years, oyster farming has become a popular method of growing oysters for food.

With the rise in oyster farming and more stringent environmental rules and enforcement, the old saying doesn’t necessarily apply to all oysters anymore. Farmed oysters are considered safe to eat year-round. Farming allows for more control and monitoring of the oysters’ environment. Oysters can be farmed in areas where the water is colder. Many farmed oysters are bred to be sterile, so they do not spawn in the summer and stay plump all year long. This is similar to many types of fruits and vegetables that are bred to be sterile, like seedless grapes. The additional monitoring of water quality also contributes to the benefits of oyster farms. Harvesting regulations and improved food safety practices allow for farmed oysters to be eaten year-round. As always, be cautious when consuming raw seafood during any time of year.

Wild vs. Farmed Oysters

Wild oysters are harvested in shallow waters and intertidal areas along the NC coast, though some can be found in subtidal reefs in deeper water. Oysters are collected with tongs, bull rakes, by hand, or, in some cases, by dredge. When oysters are in the early stages of life, they are carried around by currents. Oysters sink to the bottom as they mature. Landing on a hard surface is essential to the oyster’s survival, which is why oysters can be found growing together, either in clumps, on rocks, or on reefs.

Ryan Bethea of Oysters Carolina cultivates oysters from farms on Cape Lookout and Harkers Island. Oysters Carolina practices impressive efforts in sustainably harvesting their oysters. They rely on kayaks to reach their oyster farms, as opposed to motor-powered boats. No mechanical devices are used to lift the oyster cages out of the water – only arm strength.

Where to Get Oysters

Oysters can be purchased and prepared at your vacation home, or you can order them at a local restaurant. The latter option is much less work, however, the adventure of purchasing oysters from a local OBX seafood market to deciding how to prepare them and then consuming them with loved ones can end up being a treasured Outer Banks vacation memory. Whether you purchase oysters to prepare yourself or plan to enjoy them at a local restaurant, we recommend calling ahead to ensure that oysters are available before planning your oyster feast. 

How to Shuck Oysters

“Shucking” is the term used to describe opening oysters. Oysters are shucked using a special oyster shucking knife, which normally has a round, wooden handle and a short, thick blade. To shuck an oyster, the blade is inserted where the two shells hinge. Skill and a bit of force are needed to find the sweet spot in the oyster’s hinge. Next, carefully rotate the blade until you hear a popping sound. Keep rotating the blade until you cut the muscle that holds the shell closed. 

Experienced oyster shuckers find the sweet spot quickly and can open an oyster in a few seconds. Shucking steamed oysters is much quicker and easier than shucking raw oysters. Heavy-duty oyster gloves are recommended for less experienced oyster shuckers. When learning to shuck oysters, it’s easy to apply too much force, which can result in the knife slipping and cutting your hand. Oyster shells can be very sharp as well.

How to Eat Oysters

Eating oysters is a tradition for many families on the Outer Banks. They are fantastic as a stand-alone delicacy, but there are many excellent oyster recipes if you prefer a more balanced meal. 

• Raw or Steamed Oysters: Oysters are shucked or steamed then shucked and eaten plain or with topping(s). Common toppings include one or a combination of the following: horseradish, butter, crackers, cocktail sauce, bread, and hot sauce.

• Smoked Otila Oysters: A Twiddy family favorite, we’ve shared this tasty recipe before.

• Charbroiled Style: Charbroiled oysters, like in this recipe similar to Drago’s in New Orleans, give the perfect balance of oysters and toppings.

• Oyster Stew: A traditional cold-weather meal on the Outer Banks that’s easy to make.

Where to Recycle Oyster Shells

North Carolina has an oyster shell recycling program, facilitated by the North Carolina Coastal Federation and supported by various organizations and Outer Banks towns. Through the recycling program, restaurants and individuals are given the opportunity to return their oyster shells to the water. Oyster shells are considered a valuable resource, used to build new oyster reefs.