Lodge

Ingredients for Soup

• 3 slices bacon cut into small pieces
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 medium onion, diced 2 cloves garlic, crushed
• 3 cups diced Yukon gold or baking potatoes
• 1 quart chicken stock
• 2 teaspoons salt pinch cayenne pepper
• 1 cup heavy cream liquor drained from
• 1 pint Gulf oysters fresh herbs - thyme, chives, parsley - of choice

Ingredients for Oysters

• 1 quart oil for fryin
• 1 pint Gulf oysters, drained, liquor reserved
• Louisiana style hot sauce
• Pre-packaged fish fry of choice

Preparation Directions for Soup (video)

1. Place a gallon-sized stockpot over medium heat. Add bacon and render until crispy.
2. Drain on paper towels. Set aside.
3. Add butter and onions to stockpot and saute until onions are sof
4. Add garlic, potatoes, chicken stock and seasonings. Increase heat to high. Bring to a boil and cook until potatoes are soft, about 25 minutes.
5. Add heavy cream and oyster liquor and return to a boil for 4 minutes. Puree soup with an immersion blender until smooth. 
6. Ladle soup into bowls and top each with 3 or 4 oysters. Garnish with reserved bacon and fresh herbs.

Preparation Directions for Oysters

1. Heat oil to 350ºF. Coat oysters with hot sauce and salt to taste.
2. Place 2 or 3 oysters at a time in fish fry and coat them thoroughly before adding to hot oil. Cook until crispy. 
3. Drain on paper towels. Note: Soup may be made 1 day in advance. Oysters must be cooked immediately before serving.