What is Oysters Rockefeller?

Through the years there have been many versions of Oysters Rockefeller. However, I prefer this recipe of succulent oysters topped with seasoned spinach and Hollandaise sauce. Ooooh, so delicious!!

What is the Original Recipe? 

The original recipe is a family secret, although we do know it has butter, onions, garlic, and greens. What kind of greens are unknown. In fact, we are not even certain it contains spinach.

Originally thought to include brandy as one of the ingredients, it has been replaced with an anise flavored spirit, such as Pernod.

How did the current version get the name Oysters Rockefeller?

The word on the street is, the dish was named after John Rockefeller, the founder of Standard Oil and, at one time, the richest man in America. Because of the extreme richness of the butter and seasoned spinach, it seemed very appropriate at the time.

The Evolution of Oysters Rockefeller

In 1889, Oysters Rockefeller was created at the famous New Orleans restaurant Antoine’s by Jules Alciatore, the founder’s son. At the time, Escargot Bourguinon was one of the diner’s favorites. Due to a shortage of escargot, Jules had the brilliant idea of substituting the abundantly available local oysters. Hence, the brilliant creation of a scrumptious dish.

Are Oysters an Aphrodisiac?

“We sucked them [oysters] in, one by one, after placing them on each other’s tongue. Voluptuous reader, try it, and tell me whether it is not the nectar of the Gods!”

That is a quote from the diary of Casanova, the famous Italian playboy who seduced over a hundred women. The reason 18th Century Venice acquired its reputation as Europe’s capital for orgies and sexual pleasure.

It’s been said that Casanova consumed 50 oysters every morning for breakfast to jumpstart his libido for the day. Understandably, he may very well be responsible for oysters being perceived as an aphrodisiac. 

Once again, Oysters Rockefeller reinvented…

Although there are many delicious versions of Oysters Rockefeller, this is my favorite, by far! I was introduced to this recipe in 1985 by my first boyfriend, Jim Bindner. He got the recipe from the Dunes Club in Myrtle Beach, SC where he worked as the Food and Beverage Manager for years.

Just before I met Jim, he purchased the Gray Man Restaurant and Lounge in Pawleys Island. Jim added Oysters Rockefeller to his menu and it was one of the diner’s favorites – when you taste it, you will understand why!! I am sure his version varied a bit from the Dunes Club, and I’m sure my version varies a bit from Jim’s, since we both learned by making it and not by following a precise recipe. Either way, it’s AWESOME!

What makes this Oyster Rockefeller so different?

Most current recipes for Oysters Rockefeller contain bacon and cheese. This one does not. The Hollandaise adds a more decadent addition to the seasoned spinach and the lemon in the Hollandaise adds a zesty freshness to the oysters.

What if Oysters are not in season?

I live in Pawleys Island, SC where oysters are only in season during the months that contain the letter “r” – September thru March – if the weather is cold enough and we have not had much rain.

No fret! Other times of the year, you can get oysters from your local seafood market or grocery store. Depending on where there from, and whether or not they are in the shell, will depend on the quality and taste.

If they are not in the shell, you can certainly buy shells or put them in another type of dish. I have even been witness to friends using curled up tin foil shaped into an oyster shell. Because these Oysters Rockefeller are so delicious, it won't matter what you prepare them in.

What’s the Occasion?

Oysters Rockefeller are so decadent, therefore I think special occasions. This is a great idea for an appetizer to impress. Also great for a romantic Valentine’s Day Dinner for two.

They are soooo easy to prepare, you can really make it for any occasion.

Helpful Hint…

Because oyster shells are so wobbly, you can put a layer of rock salt on the plate to keep the shells from tipping over.

Now is a good time to PIN this post, so you can easily refer back to it at any time.

After you have tried this “Ooooh, So Delicious” dish, let me know what you think in the comments below.

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Your Girlfriend,