These Bloody Mary Oyster Shooters serve as both a drink and as an hors d'oeuvre, though they're technically more of a beverage. In addition to being a tasty delicacy, oysters are probably one of the most well-known aphrodisiacs -- a perfect drink for Valentine's Day or an anniversary. (Insert wink here.) Scientists have found that oysters contain certain rare amino acids that trigger production of sex hormones. Ready to put science to the test?
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Things You'll Need
Fresh oysters, (6)
1/2 cup tomato juice or vegetable juice
3 tablespoons fresh squeezed lemon juice (approximately 2 lemons)
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon horseradish (or to taste)
1/4 teaspoon celery salt (or to taste)
A few shakes of Tabasco sauce
2 to 3 shots good quality vodka
2.25 or 2.5 ounce shooter glasses, (6)
Oyster shucking knife
Dish towel
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients and Tools
The key to a good oyster shooter is to use the freshest oysters available. If possible, purchase them on the same day you plan to serve them. Good quality vodka (mid-range, nothing too pricey) will also improve the flavor of the drink. If you don't have an oyster shucking knife, a clean, flat-head screw driver or firm butter knife should also do the trick.
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Step 2: Clean the Oysters
Fresh oysters usually have very dirty shells, so make sure to rinse and scrub them well before shucking. This can be done either in a colander or directly in the sink.
Tip
If you would prefer to skip shucking the oysters altogether, ask your local fishmonger if it's possible to have the oysters shucked when you purchase them.
Step 3: Shuck the Oysters
Here's a short video that demonstrates how to easily shuck an oyster.
Warning
While more experienced chefs can get away with skipping the dish towel, I highly recommend using one to protect your hand.
Step 4: Place One Oyster in Each Shooter Glass
Make sure that no pieces of shell have made their way into the oysters. If necessary, give the oysters a quick rinse. If not, add a bit of the juice from the shell to each glass. It will add a great flavor to the drink. If you don't have or wish to purchase shooter glasses, you can also get creative with martini or cordial glasses.
Step 5: Combine the Remaining Ingredients in a Liquid Measuring Cup
Stir together the tomato juice, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, horseradish, celery salt, Tabasco salt, and vodka.
Step 6: Pour and Serve
Divide the Bloody Mary mixture evenly between the 6 shooter glasses. Enjoy!
