All You Need to Know About Oyster Rockefeller

This photo was my first attempt to cook Oyster Rockefeller at home 3 Years Ago, Fair Oaks, CA 💗

In our recent Lunch Excursion at Sam's Chowder House in Half Moon Bay,  I did not hesitate to order my favorite seafood Dish-Oyster Rockefeller. As a matter of fact, one of the THD residents in our Lunch Group mentioned that the reason why I went to Sam's was just to order the dish and he is correct in his statement. 

My 2 beautiful Lunch Dates- Mary Ann DeWald and Linda Lachick

The other members of our lunch group asked me what is Oyster Rockefeller and I simply told them it has spinach, cheese, garlic, onions,  breaded and baked.  However, the link below is the complete and detailed of the history and variations of these delightful dish for your reading pleasure and information in case you are not familiar with this dish.💚💚

Oysters Rockefeller is a classic seafood recipe originating from the United States, and it has become an iconic dish in American cuisine ever since. The name “Oysters Rockefeller” is derived from John D. Rockefeller, one of the wealthiest individuals in the history of the United States. While there are numerous stories about its origin, one thing is sure - it’s a delicious delicacy everyone should enjoy! 

The original Oysters Rockefeller recipe remains a closely guarded secret, but some common elements are prominent in most contemporary versions. Fresh oysters are the dish's centerpiece, nestled within their half shells and topped with a delectable blend of creamed spinach, butter, breadcrumbs, herbs, and a generous splash of liquor. The concoction is then broiled or baked to create a delightful warm crust, enhancing the natural flavors of the oysters with unparalleled richness. In some recipes a dash of Pernod Absinthe or White wine is added to the sauce during the cooking of the spinach/'herbs/onions/garlic sautéed mixture.

The luxurious flavors of Oysters Rockefeller pair beautifully with a range of drinks and dishes to provide an elegant dining experience. Sparkling wines or champagne often complement the rich oyster flavors, while a classic white wine, such as Sancerre or Sauvignon Blanc, can balance the sauce's richness. 

My first experience of this dish was several decades ago. Macrine (my late spouse) and I enjoyed it for the first time when we visited New Orleans in the 1980's. Macrine who was an excellent cook was curious and she decided to cooked it with her own variations after that. When Macrine joined her Creator in 2020, I started cooking it myself.  Here are the links ( postings) I wrote previously on Oyster Rockefeller.       

💗https://myfavoritepinoydishes.blogspot.com/2019/09/i-feel-like-cooking-oyster-rockefeller.html

💖https://chateaudumer.blogspot.com/2020/07/i-cooked-oyster-rockefeller-yesterday.html

Here are the raw ingredients, I normally used in cooking Oyster Rockefeller or Oyster Bienville.  

Origin of Oyster Rockefeller and Oyster Bienville

Oysters Rockefeller, according to legend, were created about in New Orleans. They were invented to mark the occasion of a visit by industrialist John D. Rockefeller to the Crescent City.

Oysters Bienville, on the other hand, also comes to us from New Orleans. It was named in honor of an early governor Louisiana, Jean de Baptiste Le Moyne Sieur de Bienville.

These two are very elegant dishes . They are the epitome of style and sophistication and the very embodiment of living the good life.

💚💚https://www.rockefellerscottsdale.com/post/all-about-oysters-rockefeller#:~:text=Pairing%20and%20Serving%20Suggestions,-The%20luxurious%20flavors&text=A%20cold%20beer%20also%20works,for%20a%20more%20casual%20pairing.&text=As%20a%20side%20dish%20or,the%20star%20ingredients%20to%20shine.

Meanwhile Here are the Restaurants in the Walnut Creek Area that Has Oyster Rockefeller in their Menu.    

https://www.yelp.com/search?find_desc=Oysters+Rockefeller&find_loc=Walnut+Creek%2C+CA

My personal recommendation is the Walnut Creek Yatch Club, two blocks from THD, a 3 to 5 minute walk. Be sure to call for reservations, however.