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pot of creamy oyster stew with oysters floating in broth, saltines and hot sauce visible in the background

Old-Fashioned Oyster Stew (Southern Style)

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Ingredients
  

  • - 1 pint oysters with liquor
  • - 3 cans evaporated milk
  • - 3 cans whole milk
  • - 3 cans water
  • - 1 stick butter
  • - Salt and black pepper to taste
  • - Hot sauce for serving
  • - Saltine crackers

Instructions
 

  • In a large pot, combine evaporated milk, whole milk, water, and butter. Heat over medium until butter melts.
  • Bring mixture to a gentle boil. Turn off heat and let rest 30 minutes.
  • Add oysters with their liquor. Stir gently.
  • Simmer on low for 4–6 hours, stirring occasionally.
  • Season with salt, pepper, and hot sauce.
  • Serve hot with saltine crackers.

Notes

- Keep heat low to prevent curdling.
- Add oysters only after the rest stage.
- Do not freeze; dairy separates.
- Oyster stew should be brothy, not thick.