Grilled Oysters with Fennel Butter

1. 1

   Light a grill or preheat the oven to 500.

2. 2

   In a small skillet, toast the fennel seeds over moderately high heat until fragrant, about 1 minute.

3. 3

   Transfer to a plate to cool.

4. 4

   Pound the seeds to a coarse powder in a mortar.

5. 5

   In a bowl, blend the butter with the ground fennel seeds, shallots, fennel fronds, pepper and salt.

6. 6

   Arrange the oysters on the grill, cover and cook for 3 to 5 minutes, just until they start hissing and releasing their juices but are not wide open.

7. 7

   Transfer the oysters to a large baking sheet.

8. 8

   Alternatively, arrange the oysters on a large rimmed baking sheet and roast in the oven for 3 to 5 minutes, until they start hissing.

9. 9

   Using an oyster knife, pry each oyster open at the hinge, loosen the oyster and discard the flat shell.

10. 10

    Top each oyster with 1/2 teaspoon of the fennel butter and serve hot.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.