Content

• Steps
• Method 1 of 2: Storing Fresh Oysters in Their Shells
• Method 2 of 2: Keeping fresh oysters without shells
• Tips
• Warnings
• What do you need

People who love fresh seafood can catch the oysters themselves or buy them fresh from the fish store. Raw oysters, like any fresh shellfish, are best eaten right away. However, they can be stored for several hours, or even overnight if you plan on serving them in the next couple of days. Oysters can be preserved perfectly if kept very cold. Store fresh oysters in the refrigerator to preserve their delicious taste, or freeze them for longer storage.

Steps

Method 1 of 2: Storing Fresh Oysters in Their Shells

1. 1 Place the oysters on a clean, dry plate, baking sheet, or serving tray. Arrange the shells so the clams are facing up and not onto the plate.
2. 2 Soak a clean, light-colored tea towel in cold water and squeeze. The towel should be completely damp, but no water should leak from it.
3. 3 Place the towel gently over the oysters, covering them completely.
   • Keep the towel moist. Check constantly if it's dry, wet it and cover the oysters again.
4. 4 Place the tray in the refrigerator on a shelf close to the freezer. Freezing will kill the oysters, but it is important to keep them very cold. Do not place them underneath raw meat to prevent the juice from leaking onto the oysters. This way oysters can be stored for 5-7 days.
5. 5 Peel the oysters when you're ready to use them. Wash them under cold running water and remove them with a stiff brush.

Method 2 of 2: Keeping fresh oysters without shells

1. 1 Place the peeled oysters on a plate and cover them with a damp towel. This way they can be kept in the refrigerator on the shelf closest to the freezer for 7-10 days.
2. 2 Freeze peeled oysters by filling them completely with water, put them in the freezer and store for 3-6 months, but use them as soon as possible. When it's time to defrost them, do it in the refrigerator, not at room temperature.
3. 3 Ready.

Tips

• Maintain the refrigerator temperature between 1.67 to 4.4 C.
• Leaving sand and dirt on the oyster shells will prevent moisture loss and help insulate the oysters.

Warnings

• Do not store live oysters in an airtight container or plastic bag. They will die from lack of oxygen.
• Do not store live oysters on ice, as the melting fresh water will kill them.

What do you need

• Large plate or tray
• Clean damp towel
• Refrigerator
• Hard brush
• Paper towels