Method

First, shuck the oysters; using a thick towel to protect your hand, hold an oyster with the flatter shell up. Insert the point of an oyster knife (or other small, thick-bladed knife) into the hinge of the oyster – this is the thin, pointed end of the shell. Carefully move the knife back and forth until the hinge breaks, then push the knife under the shell to cut the ligament. Take off the top shell, and place the oyster meat in a coriander to drain. Wipe the shells dry and then set them aside.

Tip the seasoned flour into a shallow dish, then pour the breadcrumbs on to another dish or plate. Crack the eggs into a separate bowl, beating them well with a fork. After draining, pat the oyster meat dry with kitchen paper. Dust each piece of oyster meat in seasoned flour, then dip it into the beaten egg, and finally coat it well in the breadcrumbs.

When you have prepared all the oysters, put a frying pan over a medium heat and add the olive oil. As soon as the oil is hot, add the oysters and fry for 1-2 minutes on one side (or until golden), then turn them over and cook the other side. To serve, put the fried oysters back into the oyster shells and take to the table with the Tabasco Sauce.