Oyster-Rice Dressing
Oyster-Rice Dressing Recipe - A Classic American Dish
Introduction
Oyster-Rice Dressing is a delicious and savory dish that combines the flavors of oysters, rice, and a creamy sauce. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or holiday meal, as it is sure to impress your guests with its unique and flavorful taste.
History
Oyster-Rice Dressing is a traditional Southern dish that has been enjoyed for generations. Oysters have long been a staple in Southern cuisine, and this recipe is a delicious way to showcase their rich and briny flavor. The combination of oysters, rice, and a creamy sauce creates a dish that is both comforting and elegant.
Ingredients
- 1 10 oz (283 g) package of frozen chopped broccoli
- 3 cups of cooked rice
- 1 pt (473 ml) of drained oysters
- 0.75 cup of sour cream
- 1 tsp of onion salt
- 0.25 cup of milk
- 2 tbsp of sherry
- 2 tbsp of catsup
- 2 tsp of lemon juice
- 1.5 tsp of worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp of cream-style horseradish
- 6 to 8 drops of hot pepper sauce
- 0.5 cup of buttered soft bread crumbs
How to prepare
- In a large bowl, toss broccoli with rice. Spoon the mixture into a greased shallow 2 qt (1.89 liter) baking dish. Arrange oysters on top of the rice mixture.
- In a separate bowl, combine sour cream, salt, milk, sherry, catsup, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, horseradish, and pepper sauce. Pour the mixture over the oysters.
- Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top. Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 20 minutes or until the oysters are tender and the top is browned.
Variations
- Add cooked bacon or sausage to the dish for added flavor.
- Substitute the broccoli with spinach or kale for a different twist.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Be sure to drain the oysters well before adding them to the dish to prevent excess liquid.
- You can use fresh or frozen oysters for this recipe, depending on what is available to you.
- Adjust the amount of hot pepper sauce to suit your taste preferences.
- Serve the Oyster-Rice Dressing hot out of the oven for the best flavor and texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Oyster-Rice Dressing as a side dish with roasted chicken or turkey.
- Pair with a green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Cooking Techniques
Baking
Ingredient Substitutions
Use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream for a lighter option.
- Substitute breadcrumbs with crushed crackers or panko for a crunchy topping.
Make Ahead Tips
Prepare the dish up to the baking step and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Presentation Ideas
Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color.
Pairing Recommendations
Pair with a crisp white wine or sparkling water with lemon.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
280
Carbohydrates
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 3g
Fats
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
Proteins
- Protein: 6g
Vitamins and minerals
Vitamin A: 10%
- Vitamin C: 20%
- Calcium: 6%
- Iron: 8%
Alergens
Contains shellfish (oysters)
- Contains dairy (sour cream)
Summary
This Oyster-Rice Dressing is a moderate source of carbohydrates and fats, with a good amount of protein and essential vitamins and minerals.
Summary
Oyster-Rice Dressing is a flavorful and comforting dish that is perfect for a special occasion or holiday meal. With a creamy sauce, tender oysters, and fluffy rice, this dish is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy the rich flavors of the South with this delicious recipe!
How did I get this recipe?
The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in the small coastal town of Bayou La Batre. My family had always been passionate about cooking, and I had always loved spending time in the kitchen with my mother and grandmother.
One day, while rummaging through my grandmother's old recipe box, I stumbled upon a faded and stained index card. The words "Oyster-Rice Dressing" were scrawled across the top in my grandmother's elegant handwriting. Intrigued, I asked her about it, and she told me the story of how she came to learn the recipe.
It was a hot summer day, much like the one we were experiencing now. My grandmother, who was a young bride at the time, had been invited to a neighbor's house for a dinner party. The hostess had served this unique dish, a combination of oysters, rice, and a variety of seasonings, that had everyone at the table begging for the recipe.
My grandmother, being the resourceful and determined woman that she was, had asked the hostess for the recipe. The woman had been hesitant at first, but after my grandmother showered her with compliments and praise for her culinary skills, she relented and shared the recipe with her.
From that day on, my grandmother had made the Oyster-Rice Dressing for every special occasion, and it had become a beloved family tradition. She had even tweaked the recipe over the years, adding her own special touch to make it truly unique.
As my grandmother shared this story with me, I could see the sparkle in her eyes and the pride in her voice. She had always been a talented cook, and this recipe was one that she held dear to her heart.
I knew that I had to learn how to make it myself, so my grandmother graciously agreed to teach me. We spent the afternoon in the kitchen, carefully measuring out the ingredients and following each step of the recipe with precision.
The key to making the Oyster-Rice Dressing, my grandmother explained, was to use fresh oysters from the local seafood market. She taught me how to shuck the oysters and remove the meat, being careful not to waste any of the flavorful juices.
Next, we cooked the rice until it was fluffy and tender, then added in the oysters along with a mixture of onions, celery, bell peppers, and garlic. The aromas that filled the kitchen were intoxicating, and I couldn't wait to taste the finished dish.
After baking the dressing in the oven until it was golden brown and crispy on top, my grandmother and I sat down at the table to enjoy our creation. The flavors were incredible – rich and savory, with a hint of sweetness from the oysters.
As we ate, my grandmother shared more stories with me about her experiences in the kitchen and the joy that cooking brought her. I listened intently, soaking up every bit of wisdom and knowledge that she passed down to me.
Now, whenever I make the Oyster-Rice Dressing for my own family, I think back to that day in my grandmother's kitchen. The recipe may have originated from a neighbor's dinner party, but it has become a cherished part of our family history.
I am grateful for the memories and traditions that my grandmother has shared with me, and I hope to pass them on to future generations. Cooking has always been a way for our family to come together, to celebrate, and to create lasting bonds.
As I finish writing this story, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the recipe that brought us all closer together. The Oyster-Rice Dressing will always hold a special place in my heart, reminding me of the love and heritage that has been passed down through the generations. And for that, I am truly thankful.