Mirada Bay Oysters

Farmers cultivate Mirada Bay Oysters, a type of Pacific Oysters (Crassostrea gigas), in the southern end of Hood Canal, Washington. They grow oysters on tidal beaches with sandy or rocky bottoms. During low tides, the oysters strengthen their adductor muscles and harden their shells as they are exposed to the air, in a practice known as intertidal or beach culture.

The Mirada Bay Oysters are known for their hardy and sturdy shells, which make them easier to shuck. This toughness results from their life on the beach, where they must withstand the tides and protect themselves from predators by clamping tightly shut during low tides to preserve their “liquor” (the natural oyster juices inside the shell).

Mirada Bay Oysters have tender meats with a balanced brine and a crisp, citrus finish in terms of flavor. They also feature a light brine with organic mineral undertones and supple hints of spinach. Their size is typically around 3 inches and is available year-round, although their peak availability is from September to July.

Mirada Bay Oysters are considered dual-purpose, meaning they are great on the half-shell and on the grill. Their versatility and flavor profile make them popular with oyster enthusiasts and chefs.

Culinary Uses

Mirada Bay Oysters and other Pacific Northwest oysters possess versatile flavor profiles and textures that make them ideal for various culinary uses. Their tender meats, balanced brine, and crisp, citrus finish suggest they pair well with Cava, making them suitable for sophisticated and delicate flavor combinations. Their light brine with organic mineral undertones and supple hints of spinach also suggests they can complement a wide range of dishes, from simple raw preparations to more complex cooked recipes.

The dual-purpose nature of Mirada Bay Oysters, being great on the half shell and on the grill, points to their historical use in both raw and cooked forms. Raw oysters have been a delicacy for centuries, often served with minimal dressing to highlight their natural flavors. Various toppings would have adorned grilled or roasted oysters, including simple herb butter and more complex sauces, reflecting local ingredients and culinary traditions.

Throughout history, people have likely enjoyed Mirada Bay Oysters in various ways, from using them as a staple food source to featuring them in upscale dining. The Pacific Northwest’s rich oyster culture emphasizes sustainable cultivation and appreciation for the unique flavor profiles of different oyster varieties, suggesting that traditional and contemporary cuisine have valued Mirada Bay Oysters for their specific qualities.

About Penn Cove Shellfish

Penn Cove Shellfish, the oldest and largest mussel farm in the United States, was established in 1975 by the Jefferds family in Coupeville, Washington. In 1996, the company formed a joint venture with Coast Seafoods Company, America’s largest oyster farm, and became known as Penn Cove Shellfish, LLC. The company’s mission has always been to be the premier producer and provider of the finest sustainably farmed shellfish products.

Penn Cove Shellfish has significantly contributed to the industry by pioneering sustainable shellfish farming and providing high-quality products. Since its establishment in 1975, the company has remained committed to being the leading provider of the finest sustainably farmed shellfish products.

Additionally, their sustainable practices are a “Best Choice” on various seafood ranking guides, signifying that their production does not harm the oceans. Therefore, Penn Cove Shellfish has promoted sustainable and high-quality shellfish farming practices.

You can learn more about Penn Cove Shellfish on their official website. Check out their social media: Facebook, Instagram, X, and Pinterest to get the latest news, deals, and information. Please note that Penn Cove Shellfish may not be the only farm cultivating Deer Creek oysters.

Mirada Bay Oysters Information

Oyster: Mirada Bay

Species: Crassostrea gigas

Cultivation Method: Farmed

Culture Method: Intertidal Beach Method. This method involves raising the oysters on tidal beaches with sandy or rocky bottoms. During low tides, the oysters clamp tightly shut to preserve their “liquor” and protect themselves against predators, as they are accustomed to fighting the tides.

Seasonality: Year-Round

Size: 2.75″

Salinity: 26 ppt

Appearance: Mirada Bay oysters have hard, sturdy shells that shuckers appreciate for their ease of handling. They have fluted edges and deep cups.

Flavor Profile: These oysters have a reputation for their full and satisfying meatiness, offering a substantial eating experience. They have a medium level of brininess. A noticeable sweetness lingers on the palate, adding a delightful contrast to the earlier flavors. The texture of the oyster meat is tender and delicate. Finally, the flavor concludes with a crisp, citrus finish.

Location

The southern end of Hood Canal, a naturally formed fjord in Washington State, is a region rich in natural beauty and recreational opportunities. This area, near Belfair, has several state parks, including Potlatch State Park and Belfair State Park. These parks offer a variety of outdoor activities, such as camping, boating, shellfish harvesting, and hiking.

The ideal environment for oyster farming is offered in the region at the southern end of Hood Canal. The narrow channels create Hood Canal, a naturally formed fjord in Washington state with medium tides and swift currents. These conditions are conducive to the growth of oysters, as they contribute to their flavor and texture. The rock and sand composition at the southern end of Hood Canal is ideal for beach-grown oysters like Mirada Bay Oysters. Wave action helps harden their shells and strengthen their abductor muscles.

Suggested Beverage Pairings

1. Allagash Tripel – This golden ale has a mix of flavors like honey and herbs that pair well with Mirada Bay Oysters. The beer’s light and dry finish will cleanse the palate between oysters.
2. Chateau Ste. Michelle Sauvignon Blanc Columbia Valley 2013 – This wine’s grapefruit flavor enhances the oysters’ mineral notes. It has a mouthwatering finish that keeps you coming back for more.
3. Left Hand Milk Stout – A lighter stout with creamy mouthfeel and toasty malt notes. That contrasts the sharp brine and sweet finish of the oysters without overpowering their delicate flavor.
4. Cava – The apple and citrus notes in a Spanish Cava pair well. Those from producers like Codorníu or Freixenet will complement the oysters nicely. The effervescence offers a refreshing counterpoint to the oysters’ texture.
5. Hendricks Gin Martini – A classic gin martini made with Hendricks, known for its subtle cucumber notes, would pair well with the oyster. The clean and robust flavors of the martini can stand up to the brininess while complementing the oysters’ sweetness.

Where Can I Buy Mirada Bay Oysters?

You can buy Mirada Bay Oysters from the following sources:

1. Penn Cove Shellfish – offers Mirada Oysters in 5 dozen and 10 dozen units. They are located at the southern end of Hood Canal, Washington.
2. Taylor Shellfish Farms – sells a variety of Pacific Northwest Oysters. They farm oysters in several locations across Western Washington and British Columbia, capturing many unique flavor profiles.