Eggs, Bacon, Oysters
According to legend, during the California Gold Rush in the mid-1800’s, one fortunate prospector struck gold near a settlement called Hangtown, now the thriving city of Placerville. He was RICH! After subsisting on nothing more than beans since he reached California, he requested that the innkeepers at the El Dorado Hotel prepare him the most extravagant meal available. It consisted of eggs, bacon, and fresh oysters. Exactly how they prepared it is anyone’s guess, but here, I present you with our version of the legendary Hangtown Fry.
Bacon is sliced and sautéed. The fat is reserved for cooking the oysters.
Imagine the process of getting fresh oysters to Hangtown (about 130 miles) from San Francisco Bay in 1849…
Pacific coast oysters are dusted in flour, dipped in egg, coated with panko breadcrumbs then sautéed in the bacon fat with vegetable oil.
Eggs are scrambled in a non-stick skillet, whisking constantly to create a small creamy curd. Bacon is added near the end of cooking.
Original California Cuisine – The Hangtown FryOther oyster recipes you might enjoy:
With what meal would you celebrate your good fortune?
Mine would definitely involve Champagne…
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I don’t eat oysters, but you’re making me reconsider with these fried babies!
This looks delicious! I am not even a big fan of oysters but done this way. YUM!
Hi ECV – I just looked up Bittman’s blurb. Yep, that is the story, he adds shiitakes too. Treadmill would be a good thing here.
Hi Dhanggit – oh you must make fried oysters for your hubby. They are an aphrodisiac you know.
Hi Paz – I was happy to read about Simona’s chicken. This recipe is over 150 years old, I’ve seen it on quite a few California restaurant menus for brunch.
Hi Merisi – sorry for that I love hearing what you have to say.
Hi Ann – not short on flavor or richness…
Oh lord, that looks fabulous!
Oh, blogger ate my comment! Too long, I suppose. 🙁
Would love to have one of the oysters.