Oyster Stew Southern Style (Printable Version)

# What You'll Need:

→ Fats and Thickener

01 - 1/4 cup unsalted butter
02 - 1/4 cup all-purpose white flour

→ Vegetables

03 - 1/2 cup chopped onion
04 - 1/2 cup chopped celery
05 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
06 - 1/4 cup chopped green onions

→ Seafood

07 - 2 cups fresh oysters with reserved oyster liquor

→ Liquids and Dairy

08 - 3 cups 2% milk

→ Seasonings and Herbs

09 - 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
10 - Salt, to taste
11 - Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
12 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
13 - Hot sauce, to taste (optional)
14 - Chili flakes, to taste (optional)

→ Extras

15 - Soda crackers or oyster crackers, for serving
16 - Additional butter pads for garnish (optional)

# Step-by-Step Directions:

01 - Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook constantly for 5 minutes until the roux turns light brown.
02 - Add chopped onion and celery to the roux and cook for 2 minutes until softened.
03 - Stir in milk and reserved oyster liquor. Add Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Cook on medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until slightly thickened, about 3-4 minutes.
04 - Add oysters, green onions, garlic, parsley, and hot sauce if using. Bring to a boil and cook for 3-4 minutes until oysters curl and are cooked through.
05 - Remove from heat. Garnish with chopped parsley, optional butter pads, chili flakes, and extra hot sauce. Serve with soda or oyster crackers.

# Helpful Notes:

01 - Use fresh oysters and reserve their liquor for optimal flavor. If canned oysters are used, add them near the end to warm through without overcooking.
02 - A light blonde roux is essential for proper thickening without a heavy taste.
03 - Store leftover stew refrigerated for up to 3 days; avoid freezing due to dairy content.