Description
Barbecued Oysters with Smoky Uni Butter is a sophisticated seafood appetizer featuring fresh oysters grilled to perfection and topped with a rich, creamy butter infused with sea urchin roe, smoked paprika, and garlic. This coastal fusion dish delivers a smoky, briny flavor with a luxurious buttery finish, perfect for entertaining or a special treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Oysters
- 12 fresh oysters, shucked and on the half shell
Smoky Uni Butter
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons uni (sea urchin roe)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped chives
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
To Serve
- Lemon wedges
Instructions
- Prepare the Uni Butter: In a small bowl, mash together the softened butter, uni, lemon juice, smoked paprika, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat to ensure it is hot enough to cook the oysters quickly and evenly.
- Arrange the Oysters: Place the shucked oysters directly onto the grill grates, making sure each oyster shell is level to prevent the natural juices from spilling out during cooking.
- Top with Uni Butter: Spoon approximately 1 teaspoon of the prepared smoky uni butter onto each oyster, distributing it evenly across the surface.
- Grill the Oysters: Close the grill lid and cook the oysters for 3 to 5 minutes, until the uni butter is melted, bubbling, and the oysters are just cooked through.
- Finish and Serve: Carefully remove the oysters from the grill, then sprinkle the finely chopped chives over each oyster. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing.
Notes
- You can prepare the uni butter in advance and refrigerate it for up to two days to save prep time.
- Use fresh, high-quality uni for the best distinctive flavor and texture.
- If a grill is unavailable, broil the oysters in the oven on a baking sheet until the butter is bubbly and the oysters are cooked.
- This recipe works great as an elegant appetizer or a special seafood treat for gatherings.
