Cooking oysters is guaranteed to draw out new textures and flavors, like in the recipes below.

But first, there are a few rules to follow when cooking oysters.

Cook five minutes, or until the oysters are simmering in their shells.

Fried oysters on a plate with lemon wedges and cocktail sauce.

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Remove the oysters with tongs and serve with crackers.

Fry the oysters for two to three minutes until golden, then remove and drain on paper towels.

Serve warm with horseradish remoulade, pickled okra tartar sauce, or your favorite hot sauce.

Barton’s Texas BBQ Oysters

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Broil on a baking sheet for four minutes until the breadcrumbs toast and turn brown.

Serve with lemon wedges.

Either way, top with a garlic butter laden with fresh herbs.

Potato Chip–crusted Fried Oysters

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Spoon 2 teaspoons of garlic butter on each oyster, and dig in.

But on a smaller scale, you could steam your oysters on the stove.

Steam for about five minutes, then place on a platter to rest.

Broiled Oysters with Buttery “Dressing” Topping

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Shuck the oysters, then serve with lemon wedges and hot sauce.

Oyster Roast with Garlic-Parsley Butter

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Step 3: Create the Steam

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