Mock Oysters
Zambian Herring and Sweetbread Oysters Recipe with Breadcrumbs and Egg
Introduction
Mock oysters are a unique and delicious dish that mimics the taste and texture of real oysters, but with a twist. This recipe combines salted herring and sweetbread to create a flavorful and satisfying appetizer or main course.
History
Mock oysters have been around for centuries, with variations of the dish appearing in different cultures and cuisines. The combination of herring and sweetbread was a popular choice in the past due to the availability of these ingredients and their affordability.
Ingredients
How to prepare
- Finely mince the Herring and divide it into 12 portions. Place each portion in an oyster shell.
- Dip each piece of sweetbread in the beaten egg and then coat it with breadcrumbs.
- Place one piece on top of each portion of Herring in the oyster shells.
- Sprinkle more seasoned breadcrumbs over the filling in each shell and dab it with butter.
- Bake in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until the butter sizzles and the breadcrumbs are brown.
- Serve immediately.
Variations
- Substitute the sweetbread with cooked chicken or mushrooms for a different flavor profile.
- Add chopped herbs or spices to the breadcrumb mixture for extra flavor.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to drain the salted herring well before using it in the recipe to remove excess saltiness.
- Boil the sweetbread until it is tender and then cut it into small pieces for easy assembly.
- Be generous with the breadcrumbs and butter on top of the mock oysters to create a crispy and flavorful topping.
Serving Suggestions
Serve mock oysters as an appetizer with a side of lemon wedges and tartar sauce, or as a main course with a fresh salad.
Cooking Techniques
Bake the mock oysters in the oven until the breadcrumbs are golden brown and the filling is heated through.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you can't find sweetbread, you can use cooked chicken or mushrooms as a substitute.
Make Ahead Tips
You can assemble the mock oysters ahead of time and bake them just before serving for a quick and easy appetizer.
Presentation Ideas
Serve the mock oysters on a bed of lettuce or garnish with fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Pair mock oysters with a crisp white wine or a light beer for a refreshing combination.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftover mock oysters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven until heated through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Calories: 180 per serving
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates: 12g per serving
Fats
Total Fat: 8g per serving
Saturated Fat: 3g per serving
Proteins
Protein: 15g per serving
Vitamins and minerals
Iron: 2mg per serving
Calcium: 30mg per serving
Alergens
Contains: Fish, Wheat, Eggs
Summary
Mock oysters are a good source of protein and iron, but they are also high in fat and calories. They should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Summary
Mock oysters are a delicious and unique dish that is perfect for seafood lovers looking for a creative twist on a classic recipe. Enjoy them as an appetizer or main course for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
How did I get this recipe?
I can't forget the moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Mock Oysters. It was a sunny afternoon in the early spring of 1965 when I was browsing through an old cookbook at a garage sale in my neighborhood. As I flipped through the pages, my eyes landed on a simple yet intriguing recipe for Mock Oysters. I had never heard of such a dish before, but something about it piqued my curiosity.
The recipe called for a few basic ingredients - saltine crackers, butter, milk, and seasonings. It seemed like a simple enough dish to make, so I decided to give it a try. I purchased the cookbook for a mere fifty cents and hurried home to start cooking.
I gathered all the ingredients and followed the instructions carefully. I crushed the saltine crackers into fine crumbs, melted the butter, and mixed everything together with the milk and seasonings. The mixture was then spooned onto a baking sheet and placed in the oven to bake.
As the Mock Oysters baked, a delicious aroma filled my kitchen. I anxiously waited for them to be done, eager to taste this new creation. When they were finally ready, I took a bite and was instantly hooked. The Mock Oysters had a rich, buttery flavor with a hint of saltiness that reminded me of the real thing.
I shared the dish with my family, and they were equally impressed. My husband declared it a new favorite, and my children begged me to make it again soon. From that day on, Mock Oysters became a regular staple in our household.
Over the years, I have made Mock Oysters for countless family gatherings, potlucks, and parties. It has always been a hit, with many people asking for the recipe. I am always happy to share it, knowing that it will bring joy to others, just as it has to me.
As I reflect on how I learned to make Mock Oysters, I realize that this recipe holds a special place in my heart. It was the beginning of my culinary journey, inspiring me to explore new flavors and experiment with different ingredients. It taught me the importance of taking risks and trying new things in the kitchen.
I am grateful for that fateful day at the garage sale, where I discovered this hidden gem of a recipe. It has become a beloved tradition in my family, passed down through the generations. I hope that others will enjoy it as much as we have, savoring each bite and creating lasting memories around the dinner table.
So, if you ever find yourself looking for a unique and delicious dish to try, I urge you to give Mock Oysters a chance. You never know - it may just become a favorite in your own home, just as it has in mine. Happy cooking!