Crassotrea Virginica - A Local Delicacy!

Coastal North Carolina is the perfect home to a wide variety of marine life, and one of the most iconic is the Eastern Oyster, also known as Crassotrea virginica. This unique variety of bivalves holds a special place in North Carolina’s culinary and ecological landscape.

The Eastern oyster, Crassostrea virginica is a species that is native to both the Atlantic and Gulf coasts of North America. This oyster specifically thrives in the brackish waters of our local estuaries and sounds, they are renowned for their distinctive flavor and indulgent texture. This oyster species is a staple of coastal Carolina cuisine for centuries and is sought after by seafood connoisseurs and chefs. These oysters typically develop a deep “cupped” appearance and make for a decadent treat.

One thing that really identifies Crassostrea virgnica is the fact that it’s remarkably adaptable to a wide variety of environmental conditions. This North Carolina oyster thrives from the salty Outer Banks waters to the nutrient-rich estuaries of Pamlico Sound. These bivalves are extremely resilient and thrive in a diverse habitat along North Carolina’s coastline.

While these oysters are extremely delicious they also play a large part in benefitting the overall health of coastal ecosystems. Since oysters are filter feeders they help improve the water quality by feeding on algae and other organic materials. Oyster farms and reefs also provide a great and safe habitat for other marine species like fish.

Oyster cultivation has been a large part of coastal North Carolina communities for decades. Aquaculture has provided sustenance and increased job availability for many individuals. 

The Eastern oyster, Crassostrea virginica, acts like a symbol of sustainability and culinary excellences in North Carolina. They can be enjoyed on the half-shell, grilled, or prepared as part of a gourmet dish.

Benefits of North Carolina Oyster Farming

The sun-kissed coastal areas of North Carolina are more than just a beautiful vacation spot. They are prime locations for the thriving economy of oyster farming. Sustainable aquaculture via oyster farming in North Carolina offers a wide variety of benefits.

What is Oyster Farming?

Oyster farming can also be known as oyster aquaculture, and is the cultivation of oysters for commercial purposes. While some traditional harvesting methods rely on natural oyster beds, oyster farming is done by carefully managed processes and planning to foster the perfect growth and harvest. In North Carolina, this industry has gained traction due to the fact that the state’s coastal conditions are the perfect environment and the rising demand of premium shellfish.

It Starts With Spat

Oyster farming relies on regimented cultivation practices that all have a humble beginning starting with oyster larvae, often referred to as spat. The process starts with the collection of spat, typically at a hatchery. These tiny baby oysters are then nurtured in controlled environments where they grow and thrive. Over time with the right care and strategic management, spat can grow into mature and ready-to-harvest Stump Sound Oysters with succulent meat and distinct flavor profiles.

Oysters are Environmental Stewards of the Sea

It’s no surprise that oysters are extremely delicious, but they also play a vital role as a type of ecological custodian. Oysters enhance the health of North Carolina’s coastal ecosystems. Since oysters are filter feeders, they actively purify the waters they live in getting rid of pollutants and sediment. In North Carolina estuaries, these bivalves are nature’s filtration system and they help promote water clarity. Oyster farms also provide a vital habitat for many different types of marine species to foster biodiversity and help stabilize the ecosystem.

Economic Impact of Oyster Farming

A benefit that might not come to mind right away is the fact that oyster farming helps create jobs and bolsters local communities around North Carolina’s coastal regions. Hatcheries, farms, and restaurants make up a portion of the oyster farming industry and each of these areas offers employment opportunities. 

This ripple effect spans beyond direct employment at oyster farms and hatcheries, sectors like transportation, hospitality, sport fishing, and tourism also benefit from this industry’s growth. Oyster farming provides sustainable livelihoods and helps stimulate economic activity in the communities nearby.

The World is Your Oyster

Oyster farming in North Carolina really shines as a way of sustainability, prosperity, and environmental responsibility. The journey that oysters go on from spat to adult oysters playing a large role in ecosystem enrichment blends tradition and innovation with oyster farming. 

Everything You Need to Know About Oysters

Like many people, you might be curious to know more about oysters. We’re here to help answer some questions and help you gain more knowledge on these amazing bivalves. From cleaning to cooking methods we’ll discuss answers to some of the most common questions about oysters.

How do you clean oysters? 

Cleaning an oyster might seem like an intimidating task, but as long as you have the right technique it’s pretty easy. You can start off by rinsing your oysters under some cold water to remove any dirt or lingering debris. Then you’ll want to use a stiff wire brush to scrub the shell very gently to clean off any of the remaining grit and sand. Once you’re done cleaning the oyster, you’ll want to make sure you have a towel and a shucking knife to open it.

Do you chew an oyster when you eat it? 

If you enjoy oysters, then you know that they are meant to be savored completely while being eaten. You might hear some people talk about swallowing an oyster, but chewing helps enhance the flavor profile. It’s recommended to take a sip of the liquor and then chew the oyster, not only does this bring out more of the flavor, but it is also a way to help avoid choking on too big a morsel to eat. 

How do you cook an oyster?

If eating raw oysters isn’t your speed, there are many ways to prepare oysters and cook them. You have options to grill, broil, or bake them. For a basic classic preparation, try grilling or broiling them with a drizzle of garlic butter or a splash of hot sauce. If you prefer baking oysters with more ingredients, you can try topping them with breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese for a decadent finish. For some tried-and-true recipes, check out some of our favorites here. 

Where can I get oysters near me?

If you’re craving fresh oysters, make sure you are shopping with reputable local vendors. At Soundside Oyster Company, we pride ourselves on cultivating high-quality North Carolina oysters sourced directly from the pristine estuaries of Stump Sound. Our commitment to quality and sustainability means you can trust that you’re getting the freshest oysters available. Check out our selection and place your order here. 

What do oysters eat?

Oysters are filter feeders, which means that they gain their nutrients from the water around them. Their primary diet is phytoplankton and other very small microscopic organisms which they filter through their gills. Not only are the oysters getting nutrition, but they are also cleaning the water around them.

There is so much that we can learn about these amazing bivalves. We hope that you’ve enjoyed this article and that you’ve gained some insight into oysters and the wonderful roles they play as a culinary delicacy and an amazing part of marine ecosystems. 

North Carolina Oysters - A Local Delicacy

Nothing says coastal living like enjoying some fresh and local Carolina Oysters. These beautiful bivalves are grown along the pristine estuaries of North Carolina and offer a unique taste unlike any other. 

Carolina Oysters 

What makes our oysters so unique? Carolina oysters, cultivated in the nutrient-rich waters of North Carolina's Stump Sound estuaries boast a distinctiveness that sets them apart. Their unique environment helps to infuse them with flavors and qualities unique to the region. During certain months, the gills of these oysters develop a vibrant green hue, this is attributed to the abundance of phytoplankton they consume. This natural occurrence further reinforces the exceptional character of North Carolina oysters!

The Flavor Profile

Here at Soundside Oyster Company, we offer two varieties of Carolina oysters. Our Soundside Salts and our pride and joy - our Stump Sound Roses. Our Salts produce a classic briny flavor with notes of umami and a delightful salty finish. Whereas our Stump Sound Roses are hearty yet delicate deep-cupped meaty oysters. that’s especially impressive for their size being between 2.5 and 3 inches.

Sustainable Harvesting Practices

At Soundside Oyster Company, we take pride in our unwavering commitment to sustainability. Our Carolina Oysters are cultivated using the most eco-friendly methods that prioritize the health and quality of our local marine ecosystem. It’s important to us to ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy the bounty of North Carolina’s coastal waters.

Pairing

Carolina oysters are a perfect and complete delicacy in themselves, however, they also lend themselves to being enhanced by several popular accompaniments. Being served with a squeeze of lemon, a dash of hot sauce, or even an artfully crafted mignonette - there really is no wrong way to enjoy one of our oysters. Carolina oysters also pair very well with a variety of wines and craft beers.

Our Oysters are so much more than a great way to savor some coastal flavors, they are an homage to the rich maritime heritage of North Carolina. Our oysters have unparalleled flavor and are thoughtfully harvested to ensure you receive the highest-quality and responsibly sourced local seafood.

Contact us today to request more information or place an order.

How Do Oysters Grow?

Oysters go on quite the journey from microscopic larvae to the amazing delicacies enjoyed by seafood enthusiasts all over the world. Even though their beginnings are humble, these bivalves undergo a huge transformation gradually forming shells and developing unique flavors and textures exclusive to the regions they grow in.

It Starts With Spat

Every oyster’s life will start as microscopic larvae that we call “spat”.These tiny creatures can be barely visible to the naked eye. They typically drift along the ocean currents until they find an ideal type of substrate to settle on. Emphasizing sustainability, we procure our spat from local sources, ensuring responsible stewardship of our marine resources.

How the Shell Forms

After the spat settles onto a suitable surface, spat start the process of forming their unique and beautiful shells. Through secretion of calcium carbonate, they gradually construct a protective shell in a process known as “calcification.” Believe it or not, oysters do not shed their shells; instead, they get larger as they grow. Although the average growth rate varies based on environmental factors and the type of nutrients in the surrounding waters, it typically averages about an inch per year. Oftentimes the oysters that you see at restaurants and in seafood markets are around 1 year old. 

Feeding and Development

Mature oysters filter a significant amount of water, up to 50 gallons per oyster per day. Through filtering, they receive their nutrients and microscopic algae to help fuel their growth. This feeding process helps keep the oysters nourished but it’s also great for improving water quality. Oysters are undoubtedly a large part of our ecosystem. Because of all the hard work they do, they help keep the waters they’re in cleaner. Reproduction of oysters typically occurs between one and three years of age. 

From Tide to Table

Here at Soundside Oyster Company, we always prioritize the optimal growth and treatment of every oyster, we utilize state-of-the-art Low Country Cages. It all starts with how we nurture our spat ensuring they are growing in the most optimum conditions and precise care. We also take great pride in hand-selecting each oyster by our dedicated farmers to ensure that only the finest bivalves make it from our farm to your table. Each oyster is sorted and prepared by hand, guaranteeing the highest quality Stump Sound oysters in North Carolina.

The growth of oysters is really an intricate process that is heavily dependent on nature and the diligence of those who steward and sustain its resources. We hope you’ve enjoyed the journey from tide to table and learning about how oysters grow. To learn more about the varieties we farm click here. 

Green Gill Oysters: Where Does The Color Come From?

There is a wide variety of delicacies when it comes to seafood. However, few are as unique as Green Gill Oysters. These bivalves feature a distinct color and a rich almost mushroom-like flavor. These oysters have captured the attention of seafood lovers and culinary enthusiasts around the world. In this article we’ll discuss how these decadent morsels get their vibrant green gills.

Origins of Green Gills

In order to produce the bright green hue in their gills, these oysters grow in select coastal waters, where the conditions have to be just right for their unique development. According to a recent article by Rachael Manasseh, a Center for Environmental Farming Systems Intern in 2022, these oysters call home in areas such as the Marennes-Oléron region of france and right here in the sounds and reefs of eastern North Carolina. It’s in these specific locations that Green Gill Oysters can thrive in the nutrient-rich waters. 

The Color

It’s easy to pick out Green Gill Oysters from other types due to the vibrant green hue that adorns their gills. This color is a direct result of the oysters and their diet. One particular algae species, Haslea Ostrearia holds the key to this change in color. This algae thrives in colder waters and produces a pigment that is known as “marennine. As the oysters filter water with the algae in it, their gills take on the beautifully unique and distinctive bue-green color.

In Demand Delights

The thought of green seafood may have posed a challenge for some people to accept in the past. Now however, innovative chefs and seafood lovers are really championing Green Gill Oysters. These oysters have become a sought-after delicacy in North Carolina. Restaurants have done an amazing job presenting these bivalves and enhancing their unique and delicious flavor profile. You’ll find Green Gill Oysters in seafood towers, grilled, broiled, baked or even raw on the half-shell. They are sure to be delicious to no matter how you have them. 

Seasonal and Sensational

Green Gill Oysters are a seasonal delicacy. These oysters are best savored during the witner and sprin months. As waters become warmer it is a little more difficult to find them and they become less abundant due to their lack of hue-producing food sources. To experience Green Gill Oysters please make sure to reach out to us here to discuss when the best time to order is.

There are few things that compare to the unique and delicious flavors that Green Gill Oysters offer. These bivalves have added an exclusive allure to enjoying oysters by offering a seasonal option loved by many.We are lucky enough to live and cultivate in a region where we have a chance to harvest these beautiful bivalves for you to enjoy. 

References: Manasseh, Rachael. "Get to Know Green Gill Oysters." Locals Seafood, Dec 12, 2022.{https://localsseafood.com/blog/get-to-know-green-gill-oysters/#:~:text=Another%20prime%20spot%2C%20perhaps%20surprisingly,green%20coloration%20of%20oyster%20gills.}

5 Classic Oyster Recipes

When it comes to seafood, there are very few dishes that can rival the flavor and appeal of oysters. There is no bad way to have an oyster, some popular preparation methods are raw on the half shell or even cooked in a wide variety of recipes. Oysters have been an iconic culinary delicacy for centuries. In this article, we’ll discuss five classic oyster recipes that are worth trying at least once.

Oysters Rockefeller

The first recipe on this list is probably one you’ve already heard of, Oysters Rockefeller. This recipe was created in New Orleans in the late 19th century. This dish traditionally features oysters that are topped with a blend of spinach, herbs, breadcrumbs, and butter. After being baked to perfection, Oysters Rockefeller are a real delicacy that never fails to impress oyster lovers.

Oysters Rockefeller

Oysters Kilpatrick

Next up on our list is Oysters Kilpatrick, this dish hails from Australia and is perfect when paired with a glass of white wine. This is a smokey and savory dish featuring oysters topped with crispy bacon, Worcestershire sauce, and a subtle hint of barbeque sauce These can be grilled or broiled to perfection.

Oysters Bienville

For lovers of Creole-inspired cuisine, Oysters Bienville might be the perfect dish. This recipe was named after a French governor of Louisiana Oysters baked with a savory mixture of shrimp, mushrooms, parmesan cheese, and a creamy white sauce make for the perfect harmony of flavors and textures. They are finished off with a sprinkle of breadcrumbs and a dash of paprika, making them a rich and delicious Southern delicacy.

Oysters Mornay

Another classic French recipe makes this list! Oysters Mornay is the true definition of indulgence. This hearty dish features oysters that are smothered in a creamy Mornay sauce that is made with Gruyere cheese, butter, and cream. They are baked until they appear to be golden and bubbly 

Oysters on the Half-Shell

This one’s for the purists and those who appreciate the simplicity and perhaps the most iconic way to eat oysters, raw and on the half-shell. This is one of the most basic yet delicious ways to enjoy oysters. It’s a dish that really showcases the natural flavor of oysters. They can be served with a squeeze of lemon, a bit of cocktail sauce, hot sauce, or a fresh and zesty mignonette.

This list highlighted just a small sample of some of our favorite classic oyster recipes. If you’re hosting a dinner party, or just craving some delicious locally sourced sustainable seafood, they are a must-try.

Remember that it’s always important to source your oysters from a trusted and reputable supplier. Soundside Oyster Company is committed to ensuring that you receive only the freshest and highest quality oysters for all of your recipes. Click here to enjoy our oysters from the tide to your table!.

5 Reasons Your Restaurant Needs Oysters from Soundside Oyster Company

If you’re looking for ways to add variety and a bit of style to your menu, it might be time to consider offering oysters. Specifically Stumpsound Roses or Soundside Salts from Soundside Oyster Company. Here are five reasons why incorporating these beautiful bivalves into your menu is a great idea.

1. Unmatched Flavor and Quality: Our oysters are packed with flavor that boasts the perfect balance of saltiness and sweetness that oyster lovers crave. Our Soundside Salts feature a briny, buttery, and umami-rich flavor, these beauties are around 3.5” to 4”. We also have Stump Sound Roses, these are the perfect for the oyster bar. Stump Sound Roses are deeper-cupped and very meaty oysters for their size. They grow to around 2.5” - 3” and are our pride and joy.

2. Sustainability You Can Count On: Sustainability is not just a trend for us, it’s a way of life and the foundation of how we choose to operate and cultivate our oysters. Our oyster farming practices are eco-friendly and innovative We are passionate about supporting our local vendors and protecting our coastal ecosystems so that you can feel good about serving in your restaurant.

3. Versatility on a Half-Shell: One of the greatest things about oysters is the fact that they are extremely versatile. You can tailor their preparation methods to fit your menu and themes. They are amazing grilled, broiled, prepared in a stew, or even served raw. You can get as creative as you want with these popular bivalves.

4. Healthy and Delicious: Oysters are as delicious as they are nutritious. These little ones are packed with protein, omega-3 fatty acids and a wide variety of vitamins and minerals. Offering oysters on your menu helps support customers who are looking for a healthy boost and a decadent treat.

5. A Partnership You Can Trust: When you choose Soundside Oyster Company as your vendor, you’re not just buying oysters, you’re entering a partnership where you have our full support. We’re here to help you every step of the way, starting with understanding your business needs, hand-selecting your oysters, and providing our support on social media and beyond.

As we wrap up this article we can promise to deliver sustainably farmed oysters with amazing flavor in every shell. Feel free to contact us today to get started with exploring how oysters  can help add additional variety to your menu. 

Facts You Probably Didn’t Know About Oysters

We might be a little biased, but we think oysters are some of the most amazing animals in the world. They have an extremely unique biology,a rich cultural history, and are so incredibly beneficial to the environment. Here are some amazing facts that you probably didn’t know about oysters.

1. Oyster Filters: Did you know that oysters are hard at work daily filtering up to 50 gallons of water? They play a vital role in helping to maintain water quality and overall ecosystem health.

2. A Delicacy: Oysters have been enjoyed as a delicacy for thousands of years. There is archaeological evidence that suggests humans have been eating oysters since at least 164,00 years ago. This historical data makes them one of the oldest known foods to be enjoyed by our ancestors.

3. Pearls: While not every oyster produces pearls, those that do go through a process of irritation and calcification. Cultured pearls are formed with human intervention and have been created since the late 19th century. 

4. Pint-Sized Environmental Protectors: Oyster reefs can provide a safe habitat for a wide variety of marine life like fish, crabs, and other shellfish. By raising awareness to protect and restore oyster habitats, we can help support biodiversity and promote healthy thriving coastal ecosystems. 

5. Nutritional Powerhouse: Oysters are as delicious as they are loaded with nutrients. They are a wonderful source of protein, vitamins, minerals, and omega-3 fatty acids that make them a great addition to any diet.

6. Oyster Farming: Oyster farming can also be referred to as aquaculture, has been practiced for centuries. Today we use sustainable oyster farming methods to help meet the growing demand for our bivalves while being mindful and minimizing environmental impact.

7. Variety: There are hundreds of varieties of oysters from all around the world. Regionally you may find a select few near you that you can enjoy. Each oyster has its own unique flavor profile and visual characteristics. You’ll find flavors that are briny, salty, and even sweet or buttery! There’s an oyster for every palate, and we think they’re all amazing.

8. Oyster Etiquette: Did you know there’s a proper way to eat an oyster? Traditionally you’ll see many people enjoy raw oysters with a squeeze of lemon or a splash of a mignonette sauce. It’s highly recommended to taste a bit of the liquor before you enjoy the oyster to experience its full range of flavors and textures.

9. Oyster Lore: Oysters have been the inspiration for many myths, legends, and superstitions throughout history. In medieval Europe, they were associated with being wealthy and prosperous.

Oysters are so much more than meets the eye, they are environmental heroes and prestigious culinary delights. As we continue to cultivate and grow these remarkable creatures, we understand the responsibility we have to ensure the long-term health and viability of oyster populations. By supporting sustainable oyster farming practices at Soundside Oyster Company, we are always advocating for ocean conservation so that people can enjoy these incredible bivalves for generations to come.

Click here to contact us to place an order.

Oysters 101: Selecting, Shucking, and Serving

Oysters are briny bivalves that are far more than just a sophisticated appetizer. They are a unique flavor journey with texture and cultural significance. This guide was written to help you gain the knowledge to navigate selecting, shucking, and serving oysters with confidence. 

Anatomy of an Oyster:

The best way to understand how to select an oyster is to understand what it is exactly. An oyster has two main parts:

• Mantle: This is the fleshy muscle, or the part that you eat. As a whole the mantle along with the other internal organs (gills, stomach, digestive system, etc.) is responsible for filtering water and contains the parts that help the oyster feed.

• The shell is the protective outer layer that’s made of calcium carbonate and can come in various shapes and colors depending on the species. Oysters are often called bivalves because their shell is made of two separate parts called valves.

What is Oyster Liquor?

Oyster liquor is a liquid treasure, it’s the clear liquid that is found inside of the oyster. This “liquor” is a concentrated essence made of sea water and some of the oyster’s own juices. Quite a few seafood connoisseurs will usually sip the oyster liquore before actually eating it. 

How to Select Fresh Oysters

Live oysters are a must, look for these typical signs of freshness:

• TIghtly Closed Shells: make sure you’re selecting oysters that are firmly shut. Immediately pass on oysters that are popped open and do not close if disturbed.

• Fishy Odors: oysters should smell like the ocean, not like ammonia or other foul odors.

• Kept Cold: when you’re holding the oyster it should feel cold as ice.

• Healthy Overall Appearance: avoid oysters that have broken or damaged areas on the shell. The meat should be plump and opaque as well.

How to Store Your Oysters

It’s recommended to store your oysters in the refrigerator, place a damp towel over them and keep them cold. Once they are prepared they should be consumed immediately. Be sure to avoid submerging your oysters in water. Remember that they are saltwater animals and that the freshwater would cause them to die and go bad.

Shucking 101

Equipment needed:

• Oyster Knife (with a blunt tip for safety)

• Thick gloves

• Kitchen towel

Steps:

1. Hold the oyster flat-side down with the hinge facing you.

2. Insert the tip of the knife into the hinge’s point.

3. Gently twist the knife, severing that adductor muscle.

4. Very carefully pry open the shell, while trying not to spell the liquor.

And in just four simple, steps you’re well on your way to serving up one of the most delicious and nutritious sources of protein the ocean has to offer.

How to Serve Oysters: Raw and Beyond

A purist approach would be the most simple but still very delicious way to serve oysters. This includes having the oysters raw accompanied by using a fresh squeeze of lemon.

Maybe a bit of mignonette would suit your tastes. A mignonette is a combination of finely minced shallots, red wine vinegar, and fresh cracked black pepper. This combination was created to enhance the oyster’s own natural brininess. 

Another way to enjoy oysters is by adding other garnishes like horseradish, chopped chives, or even a splash of hot sauce if you enjoy a bit of spice. 

Creative Cooking with Oysters

Going beyond eating them raw there are many different ways to have oysters cooked:

• Grilled: oysters can be topped with a variety of items like cheese, herbs, or breadcrumbs and then grilled. 

• Oyster Rockefeller: This is an iconic dish from New Orleans that bakes oysters in a creamy spinach sauce.

• Oyster Stew: Cooking oysters in a hearty stew with a combination of potatoes, onions, and cream is the perfect way to warm up on a cold day.

You know more about oysters now than you did when you first started reading this article.

If you’re ready to try your hand at selecting, shucking, and savoring all of the unique flavors oysters have to offer, contact us here.

Up and running!

Our blog is now set! Here’s a photo of some of us at Shuckin Shack surf city for their oyster roast a while back! The purpose of the roast was to bring all of us farmers together to shed light on how oyster farms positively effect our oceans and sea life, contributing a lot more to environmental sustainability than most people think. Every adult oyster filters up to 50 gallons of water per day, what’s 50 times 1 million? 50 million! We hope that by attending local events and educating others on our practice we can show how much impact even just a single farm has. Stay tuned!

-Charlotte