WALKERS' BROWN OYSTER STEW

Walkers' Brown Oyster Stew image

A complete change from the typical dish, this is inspired by the recipe of the Walker family of Orange Beach, AL. It is roux based, not cream, and is rich, hearty and deeply satisfying. Red pepper flakes and/or hot sauce may be added as desired.

Provided by Emily Tisdale

Categories Soups, Stews and Chili Recipes Stews Seafood

Time 1h10m

Yield 12

Number Of Ingredients 11

Ingredients

1 pound bacon, diced
¼ cup rendered bacon fat
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 stalks celery, thinly sliced
¼ cup all-purpose flour
2 cups clam juice
2 cups water
4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 quart shucked oysters

Steps:

Cook the bacon in a Dutch oven or large pot over medium heat until browned and crispy, about 10 minutes. Pour off all but 1/4 cup of bacon fat, and stir in the onions and celery until the onions have turned translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the flour, and cook until the flour begins to brown, about 10 minutes.
Pour in the clam juice, water, and potatoes. Bring to a boil over high heat, stirring constantly then reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer until the potatoes are just tender, about 15 minutes. Season with salt and pepper, and stir in the oysters. Recover, and simmer 5 minutes until the oysters have firmed. Ladle into bowls to serve.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 289.6 calories, Carbohydrate 29.2 g, Cholesterol 60.6 mg, Fat 12.2 g, Fiber 3.1 g, Protein 15.5 g, SaturatedFat 4.1 g, Sodium 675.7 mg, Sugar 1.6 g