Oysters Rockefeller

Ingredients

• 24 oysters in their shells
• 1/4 cup butter, melted
• 1/4 cup finely chopped celery
• 2 tablespoons freshly chopped parsley
• 1/4 cup Pernod or other anise-flavored liqueur
• 2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons freshly grated Romano cheese
• 1/4 cup fine dry breadcrumbs
• Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Open the oysters and remove the top shell. Place the oysters on the bottom shell on a baking sheet.
3. In a small bowl, combine the butter, celery, parsley, Pernod, Parmesan cheese, Romano cheese, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Spoon the mixture onto the oysters. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown.
5. Serve hot.

Interesting Facts

• This famous dish was created in 1899 at the famous Antoine's Restaurant in New Orleans.
• The original recipe was a secret, but it is believed to include a combination of butter, parsley, breadcrumbs, and seasonings.
• The dish was named after John D. Rockefeller, the richest man of that time, in recognition of the richness of its ingredients.