Air-Frying Oysters: The Perfect Timing For Delicious Results

Air fryer oysters are a delicious and healthier alternative to deep-fried oysters, and they take just a few minutes to cook! In this article, we will explore different ways to cook oysters in an air fryer, including fresh, frozen, and breaded oysters. We will also provide tips on how to get the perfect crispy texture and some serving suggestions to impress your family and friends. So, get ready to cook up a storm and enjoy the briny, chewy, and slightly sweet flavour of oysters made right in your air fryer!

Cooking time and temperature

When cooking oysters in an air fryer, it is important to ensure that the outsides are dry before cooking. This will help to achieve a crispy texture. If the oysters are not dry, the cooking time will be longer.

The cooking time and temperature for oysters in an air fryer vary depending on the recipe and the number of oysters being cooked. For example, one source recommends cooking oysters at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for a total of 8 minutes. The oysters are first cooked for 4 minutes, then flipped, sprayed lightly with cooking oil, and cooked for an additional 4 minutes. This recipe suggests that the oysters be placed in a single layer in the air fryer basket and sprayed lightly with cooking spray before cooking.

Another source provides a similar cooking time and temperature, suggesting that the oysters be cooked at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for a total of 8 minutes as well. However, this recipe calls for flipping the oysters halfway through the cooking time, so they are cooked for 4 minutes on each side. This recipe also suggests lightly spraying the oysters with cooking oil after flipping them.

A third source recommends cooking oysters at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for a total of 8 minutes as well. However, this recipe suggests cooking the oysters for 6 minutes, flipping them, and then cooking for an additional 2 minutes. This recipe also emphasizes the importance of preheating the air fryer to the desired temperature before adding the oysters.

It is worth noting that the cooking time may vary depending on the size and number of oysters being cooked. It is always important to ensure that oysters are properly cooked before consuming them. A meat thermometer can be used to check the internal temperature of the oysters, which should reach 145 degrees Fahrenheit for fresh oysters.

Additionally, if you are reheating cooked oysters in an air fryer, a lower temperature of 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 3-4 minutes is recommended. This ensures that the oysters are warmed through without overcooking.

How to prepare oysters before cooking

Preparing oysters for cooking in an air fryer requires several steps to ensure they are cleaned and seasoned properly. Firstly, clean the oysters thoroughly under cold running water, scrubbing them gently to remove any debris or dirt. This preliminary rinse is important, especially if you want to retain their natural salty flavour. In this case, rinsing the oysters in saltwater is recommended.

Once the oysters are clean, use a knife to carefully shuck them. Insert the knife into the hinge of the shell and twist it to pry open the shell, being cautious to avoid any injuries. After shucking, gently slide the knife along the inside of the top shell to completely detach the meat from the shell.

Now, it's time to coat and season the oysters. In a bowl, combine your preferred coating of breadcrumbs or flour, or a combination of both for a unique taste. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste, and add any additional spices or herbs that you think will complement the flavour of the oysters. You can also add cornmeal, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and pepper for extra flavour.

The next step is to dip the oysters into the mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated on all sides. Gently press the coating onto the oysters to help it adhere better. You can also try a wet batter, but be cautious as the batter can sink down into the air fryer holes. After coating, place the oysters on a baking sheet or pan and let them rest for a few minutes while the air fryer is preheating.

How to make the perfect breading

Air fryer oysters are a delicious, healthier alternative to deep-fried oysters. They are crispy, light, and perfectly breaded.

To make oysters in an air fryer, first, shuck and rinse the oysters and let them drain in a colander. Pat the oysters dry with a paper towel. In a shallow bowl, combine flour, salt, pepper, and any other seasonings you like. You can also add an egg and milk to this mixture. In a separate bowl, add the breadcrumbs. You can use regular, panko, or French bread crumbs. If using a French loaf, remove the crusts and tear the bread into chunks, then pulse in a food processor or blender to make crumbs.

Next, dredge the oysters in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess, then dip them in the egg mixture (if you have one), and finally, roll them in the breadcrumbs to coat thoroughly. Set each oyster in the air fryer basket in a single layer, then spray lightly with cooking spray or oil.

Now, you are ready to air fry your oysters! Air fry at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 4 minutes. Flip the oysters, spray or oil again, and cook for another 3-4 minutes. Your oysters are now ready to serve and enjoy!

For an extra crispy texture, you can double dredge the oysters in batches right before frying. This ensures the breading stays crisp and doesn't get soggy. You can also experiment with different seasonings in the flour mixture, such as cajun seasoning, Old Bay seasoning, paprika, cayenne pepper, or garlic powder, to add extra flavour to your breading.

Reheating and storing oysters

To reheat oysters in an air fryer, first, set the oysters in a single layer in the basket. Spray them lightly with cooking spray. Then, air fry at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 3 minutes. Shake the basket and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until warmed through.

When storing oysters, it is important to keep them cold until they are cooked or eaten. Ideally, oysters should be placed back into cold storage within 2 hours of being removed to prevent bacteria from multiplying and increasing the risk of illness.

Oysters can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a month, although the likelihood of losing a few increases the longer they are out of the water. It is recommended to consume oysters within 7-10 days of the harvest date if eating them raw, as the flavor and texture can begin to change.

To store oysters in the refrigerator, first, check that the shells are closed and unbroken. Then, clean the oyster shells with a stiff brush under cold running water. Place the oysters "cup down" on a flat tray so that if they open slightly while stored, the liquor remains within the cupped shell. Cover the oysters with a damp, not wet, cloth and place the tray in the coldest part of the refrigerator.

Oysters can also be shucked and frozen for longer-term storage. To do this, shuck the oysters, stick as much liquor in a freezer-safe container as possible, and then add water to cover the oysters. Oysters stored this way can be kept in the freezer for about 12 months.

What to serve with cooked oysters

Oysters have a delicate saltwater flavour that can be enhanced or overshadowed by what they are served with. Acidic, herbal, and creamy companions can improve their taste. A bright, crisp white wine is the quintessential beverage pairing for freshly shucked oysters. A zesty Sauvignon Blanc or an unoaked Chardonnay will complement the oysters' lean minerality.

For a delightful crunch and savoury flavours, you can serve crispy fried shrimp and slices of crusty French baguette alongside the oysters. For a refreshing and vibrant winter salad, you can add sweet orange segments and thin slices of crunchy fennel drizzled in a tangy orange vinaigrette. Grilled asparagus and crispy bacon also make sensational additions to oysters for a crunch and smoky flavour contrast.

For a simple, zesty, and spicy sauce, you can dip the oysters in shrimp cocktail sauce topped with horseradish and a squeeze of lemon. Oysters can also be served with tartar sauce, plain or flavoured aioli, remoulade, soy sauce-based dips, and spicy chopped herb mixtures.

If you want to make a meal out of it, you can serve the oysters with other seafood such as crab legs, baked clams, and lobster.

Frequently asked questions