Deep Fried Oysters

Ingredients

• 1 pint raw Gulf oysters, well drained (do not rinse)
• 2 cups yellow corn meal
• 1-1/2 teaspoons Old Bay seasoning, or to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon lemon pepper or freshly cracked black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon Creole or Cajun seasoning, or to taste, optional
• Cooking oil (vegetable, canola) for deep frying (enough to fully cover oysters)
• Hot pepper sauce and cocktail sauce, for the table, optional

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat the deep fryer to 375 degrees F or heat oil in a heavy pot or skillet over high heat until it shimmers.

2. 2

   Season cornmeal and roll the oysters in the seasoned cornmeal.

3. 3

   Drop immediately into the hot oil, frying until crisp and golden brown, only a few minutes. Serve immediately.