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Two Shot Glasses Rimmed with Spice, One Filled with An Oyster and Clear Liquid, Sit on A Wooden Surface with A Blurred Background

Oyster Shooters – A Taste of the Ocean

There’s something exhilarating about the first time you try an oyster shooter. The briny freshness of the oyster, the tangy heat of the cocktail sauce, and the crisp bite of chilled vodka create an unforgettable experience.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Servings 4 shooters
Calories 80 kcal

Equipment

  • Oyster knife (for shucking)
  • Kitchen towel (to hold the oysters securely)
  • Small bowl (for mixing cocktail sauce)
  • Shot glasses (for serving)
  • Crushed ice or a chilled platter (to keep oysters cold)

Ingredients
  

  • 4 fresh oysters (Kumamoto, Blue Point, or any small briny variety)
  • 4 tbsp vodka (chilled)
  • 4 tbsp cocktail sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • Hot sauce (a few dashes, to taste)
  • 1 tsp prepared horseradish (optional, for extra zing)
  • 1 lemon, cut into wedges (for garnish)

Optional Additions

  • Pickled jalapeños (for a spicy kick)
  • Celery salt (a dash for extra depth)
  • Tabasco or Worcestershire sauce (to enhance the cocktail sauce)

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Oysters
    Choose fresh oysters from a trusted seafood vendor. Ensure the shells are tightly closed and smell fresh and oceanic.
    Shuck the oysters:
    Rinse under cold water to remove debris. Use a folded towel for grip and safety. Insert an oyster knife at the hinge and twist until the shell pops open. Slide the knife under the oyster to free it while keeping the liquor (natural brine) intact.
    Keep them chilled on crushed ice or a cold plate while you prepare the shooters
  • Mix the Cocktail Sauce
    For the freshest flavor, make your own cocktail sauce:
    3 tbsp ketchup
    1 tsp prepared horseradish
    1 tsp fresh lemon juice
    A dash of hot sauce (adjust to taste)
    A pinch of celery salt (optional)
    Mix these ingredients in a small bowl.
  • Assemble the Shooters
    Place one shucked oyster into each shot glass.
    Add 1 tbsp of cocktail sauce over the oyster.
    Pour in 1 tbsp chilled vodka.
    Top with a dash of hot sauce (and horseradish, if using).
    Garnish each glass with a lemon wedge.
    A Shot Glass with A Spiced Rim Holds an Oyster and Cocktail Sauce, with More Shooters Lined up In the Background
  • Enjoy the Perfect Slurp
    Squeeze a bit of lemon over the top.
    Tilt the shot glass back in one smooth motion.
    Let the flavors burst in your mouth—the briny oyster, tangy sauce, and crisp vodka.
    A Hand Reaches for A Spiced-Rim Oyster Shooter, Ready to Take a Sip

Video

Notes

Tips & Variations

  • Bloody Mary Style: Use Bloody Mary mix instead of vodka and garnish with celery.
  • Tequila Twist: Swap vodka for silver tequila and add a lime wedge.
  • Asian Fusion: Replace vodka with chilled sake and drizzle in a few drops of soy sauce.
  • Michelada Shot: Use beer instead of vodka for a refreshing Mexican-style twist.
Keyword Appetizers, Cocktails, Oysters, Seafood, Spicy