Kusshi Oysters

Kusshi Oysters, originating from Vancouver Island, British Columbia, are renowned for their small, gem-like shells. The name “Kusshi” is Japanese for “ultimate,” reflecting their high quality.

These oysters are farmed for 3 to 4 years using a suspension tray method and a unique tumbling process, which results in smooth, golf-ball-shaped oysters with deep cups. The tumbling process strengthens their shells and adds firmness to the meat.

Kusshi Oysters are available year-round, with an average size of 2.25 inches. They are often compared to Kumamoto oysters, although Kusshi tends to be brinier. Their cultivation process, which includes protection from predators and mud, produces a clean, delicate flavor.

Stellar Bay Shellfish Ltd., led by Keith Reid, has refined the process to produce these unique, world-class oysters. The company’s oysters are regularly monitored for quality and are graded according to size using state-of-the-art technology.

About Stellar Bay Shellfish Ltd.

Stellar Bay Shellfish Ltd., situated in Bowser, British Columbia, Canada, dedicates itself to producing oysters of exceptional quality. The company cultivates its oysters in the pristine waters off of Canada’s Vancouver Island, providing ideal growing conditions.

Stellar Bay Shellfish Ltd. has perfected the process of culturing oysters to produce exceptional, world-class oysters. The company employs state-of-the-art technology to monitor its oysters’ quality and grade them based on size.

Stellar Bay Shellfish Ltd. has positioned itself to supply fresh oysters and clams worldwide by situating its oyster farms within 5km of the processing plant.. This proximity drastically reduces the time the shellfish spend in transit, ensuring freshness.

The British Columbia Wine and Oyster Festival People’s Choice Award has recognized the company’s commitment to quality for the past six years. Today, Stellar Bay Shellfish Ltd. is among Canada’s top shellfish suppliers.

You can contact Stellar Bay Shellfish Ltd. directly at their official website. You can also follow them on Facebook and Instagram!

Kusshi Oysters Information

Oyster: Kusshi

Species: Mallagana gigas

Cultivation Method: Farmed for up to 4 years.

Culture Method: The tray suspension method involves suspending the oysters in mesh trays in deep water for their entire lives. This method protects the oysters from predators and mud and allows them to direct their energy into meat production rather than growing a bigger shel

Seasonality: Year-Round

Size: 1.75″

Salinity:  28-30 ppt

Appearance: Small, deep-cupped, and smooth shells. The shells are thick due to the constant tumble the oysters undergo. The meat fills the shell and has an ivory opacity to it.

Flavor Profile: Oceanic brine balanced by moderate sweetness. The meat is creamy with a firm bite, indicative of their high meat content. The flavor finishes with a bright cucumber note, adding a refreshing and fruity end.

Location

In Deep Bay, which is located off the eastern coast of Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada, farmers cultivate Kusshi oysters in nutrient-rich waters. Baynes Sound, situated in the Strait of Georgia, contains Deep Bay.

Suggested Beverage Pairings

1. Mezcalito – This cocktail’s smoky and zippy flavors, made with mezcal, jalapeño, lime, and agave, complement the sweetness and the mild brine of Kusshi oysters.
2. Mollusca Martini – The smokiness and floral aromas of this martini and the citrus notes from the gin enhance the fruity nature of the Kusshi oysters.
3. Domaine Philippe Gilbert Menetou-Salon – A fruit-forward Sauvignon Blanc from the Loire Valley, this wine’s mix of tart and ripe citrus, tropical fruit, and smoky minerality balances the briny, fruity component in the oyster.
4. Pinot Gris – The bone-dry nature of this wine creates a lush texture with the creamy and meaty Kusshi oysters and brings out a pleasant acidity.
5. Paloma Cocktail – The light tequila and sour grapefruit juice in this cocktail cut through the creamy meat of the Kusshi oyster, while the extra pinch of salt helps the cucumber and grassy notes to shine through.

Where Can I Buy Kusshi Oysters?

1. Kusshi Oysters Official Website – You can buy directly from the source. Visit the official company website for more on the operation and oyster access.
2. Four Star Seafood – This online retailer offers Kusshi oysters in a pack of 12.
3. Coastal Seafoods – Another online retailer that sells Kusshi oysters. They are based in Minneapolis and St. Paul.
4. Honolulu Catch – This online store offers Kusshi oysters by the dozen. They provide detailed information about the oysters, including their size, taste, and origin.