Does Oyster Sauce Need To Be Refrigerated?

Oyster sauce is a staple ingredient in many Asian cuisines, especially Chinese, Thai, and Vietnamese. It is a rich, savory sauce that is made from oyster extract, sugar, salt, and sometimes soy sauce and corn starch. It adds a depth of flavor and a glossy finish to stir-fries, sauces, marinades, and more. But does oyster sauce need to be refrigerated? And how long does it last? Here’s what you need to know about storing and using this delicious condiment.

Oyster sauce does not need to be refrigerated before opening, as long as it is kept in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. However, oyster sauce should be refrigerated after opening to extend its shelf life and prevent spoilage. Opened oyster sauce can last for 6 months to a year in the fridge.

What Is Oyster Sauce?

Oyster sauce is a thick, dark brown sauce that is made from oyster extract, which is the liquid that comes from boiling oysters in water. The oyster extract is then mixed with sugar, salt, and sometimes soy sauce and corn starch to thicken it and enhance its flavor. Oyster sauce has a sweet and salty taste with a hint of seafood flavor. It is not very spicy, but it has a lot of umami, which is the savory taste that makes food more satisfying.

Oyster sauce was invented by accident in the late 19th century by a Chinese cook named Lee Kum Sheung, who forgot to turn off the heat while simmering a pot of oyster soup. The soup reduced to a thick paste that had a delicious flavor. Lee decided to sell his new creation as a seasoning sauce under the brand name Lee Kum Kee, which is still one of the most popular brands of oyster sauce today.

How to Store Oyster Sauce

Oyster sauce is sold in glass or plastic bottles or jars, and can be found in the Asian section of most supermarkets or online. Before opening, oyster sauce can be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. It can last for up to a year if unopened.

After opening, oyster sauce should be refrigerated to extend its shelf life and prevent spoilage. Make sure to close the lid tightly and use a clean spoon or utensil when scooping out the sauce. Avoid cross-contamination by not dipping food directly into the bottle or jar. Opened oyster sauce can last for 6 months to a year in the fridge, depending on the brand and how often you use it.

How to Tell If Oyster Sauce Is Bad

Oyster sauce is a fermented product that has a long shelf life if stored properly. However, it can still go bad over time or if exposed to unfavorable conditions. Here are some signs that your oyster sauce is bad:

• Mold: If you see any fuzzy or slimy growth on the surface or inside the bottle or jar of oyster sauce, discard it immediately. Mold can produce toxins that are harmful to your health.
• Color change: If your oyster sauce turns lighter or darker than its original color, it means that it has oxidized and lost its freshness. It may also have an off smell or taste.
• Texture change: If your oyster sauce becomes watery or lumpy instead of smooth and thick, it means that it has separated or dried out. It may also have lost some of its flavor and saltiness.
• Expiration date: If your oyster sauce has passed its expiration date or best-by date printed on the label, it may not be safe to consume. Always check the date before using oyster sauce.

FAQs

How do I use oyster sauce in cooking?

You can use oyster sauce in many ways in cooking. Here are some ideas:

• Mix it with soy sauce, sugar, vinegar, and corn starch to make a basic stir-fry sauce for meat and vegetables.
• Drizzle it over steamed greens like broccoli, bok choy, or Chinese broccoli for a simple side dish.
• Add it to soups, stews, curries, or noodles to add some richness and flavor.
• Use it as a marinade for chicken, beef, pork, tofu, or seafood before grilling or baking.
• Blend it with peanut butter, lime juice, garlic, ginger, and water to make a dipping sauce for spring rolls or skewers.

How do I make my own oyster sauce?

You can make your own oyster sauce at home by following a recipe like this one from Recipeland. You will need fresh oysters with their liquid (or canned ones), salt, and soy sauce (optional). You will also need a blender and a strainer. You will need to blend the oysters with their liquid and salt, then strain the mixture and simmer it until it thickens. You can add some soy sauce if you like for extra flavor.

What are some substitutes for oyster sauce?

If you don’t have oyster sauce or can’t find it, you can try some of these substitutes:

• Hoisin sauce: This is a sweet and tangy sauce that is made from fermented soybeans, garlic, vinegar, and spices. It has a similar consistency and color to oyster sauce, but a different flavor. Use about half the amount of hoisin sauce as oyster sauce and adjust to your taste.
• Soy sauce and sugar: This is a simple and easy way to mimic the saltiness and sweetness of oyster sauce. Mix about 2 tablespoons of soy sauce with 1 teaspoon of sugar and use as a replacement for 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce. You can also add some vinegar or lemon juice for some acidity.
• Fish sauce and sugar: This is another option that uses common Asian ingredients. Fish sauce is a salty and pungent liquid that is made from fermented fish. It has a strong seafood flavor that can substitute for oyster sauce. Mix about 1 tablespoon of fish sauce with 1 teaspoon of sugar and use as a replacement for 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce.

Conclusion

Oyster sauce is a delicious and versatile condiment that can enhance your dishes with its rich, savory, and slightly sweet flavor. It is a fermented chili paste that is made from oyster extract, sugar, salt, and sometimes soy sauce and corn starch. It does not need to be refrigerated before opening, but it should be refrigerated after opening to extend its shelf life and prevent spoilage. It can last for 6 months to a year in the fridge if stored properly. You can use oyster sauce in many ways, such as stir-fries, sauces, marinades, or dips. You can also make your own oyster sauce at home or use some substitutes if you don’t have it.