Oysters Internationale
Oysters Internationale offers a rich combination of crispy bread, tender oysters, savory bacon, and flavorful cheeses, all enhanced with sherry and Worcestershire sauce. This baked dish is perfect for seafood lovers and makes an impressive appetizer or main course for special occasions or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Spread butter on bread slices.
- Place the bread in a 250°F oven until hard but not browned.
- Grease a flat baking dish with bacon fat.
- Crush the bread and place about two-thirds of it on the bottom of the dish.
- Make a layer of oysters on top of the bread crumbs.
- Arrange onion rings on top of the oysters.
- Cover with the remaining bread crumbs.
- Combine oyster liquid and milk to make 1 1/2 cups.
- Add Worcestershire sauce, sherry wine, salt, pepper, and garlic salt; stir well.
- Pour the liquid mixture over the bread just to moisten it.
- Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top.
- Cut bacon into 1-inch strips.
- Place bacon strips on top of the cheese.
- Bake at 325°F for 40 minutes.
- Finish by broiling for 3 minutes until golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider using different types of cheese, such as cheddar or a mix, if Parmesan isn’t available. You can also substitute the bacon with pancetta for a richer flavor. When preparing the bread, ensure it's fully dried in the oven to prevent sogginess later. This recipe is a great way to use leftover bread, much like in American recipes involving bread crumbs.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is best served hot and fresh out of the oven. It pairs wonderfully with a light green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. For a delightful contrast, serve with a chilled glass of white wine. Consider complementing it with sides like Uncle Eddie'S Baked Beans for a hearty feast or Cool Summer Peas for a refreshing touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the dish in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. Broiling for a minute or two can help restore the crispy top. Avoid freezing, as the texture may suffer.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Oysters Internationale contains roughly 577 calories, with 16g protein, 73g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (32% of the Daily Value) and iron (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1182mg per serving (51% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use raw oysters instead of frying oysters?
Yes, you can use raw oysters; however, ensure they are fresh and properly cleaned. If you choose this option, consider reducing the baking time slightly to prevent overcooking, as raw oysters will become tough if baked too long.
What type of bread is best for this recipe?
A crusty bread like French or Italian works well for this dish, as it holds up better when baked and absorbs the flavors. Avoid soft sandwich bread, as it may become too mushy. Slightly stale bread is ideal for creating the right texture.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the dish up to a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking to ensure even baking.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).