Kumamoto Oysters on the Half Shell
Kumamoto oysters on the half shell are a premium raw seafood delicacy featuring small, deep-cupped oysters native to Kumamoto Prefecture, Japan, served freshly shucked on their own shell. Typically presented on a bed of crushed ice, they are often accompanied by classic garnishes like lemon wedges, mignonette sauce, or a dash of soy sauce. This preparation highlights the oyster's natural, clean flavor and is celebrated in seafood cuisine worldwide.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This dish is extremely low in carbohydrates and high in lean protein, providing a rich source of essential minerals like zinc, iron, and selenium, as well as omega-3 fatty acids. A typical serving of six oysters contains roughly 50-70 calories, making it a nutrient-dense, low-calorie option.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 40 kcal |
| Protein | 5 g |
| Carbs | 1 g |
| Fat | 1 g |
| Fiber | 0 g |
| Sugar | 0 g |
| Sodium | 250 mg |
| Zinc | 16 mg |
| Vitamin B12 | 15 µg |
| Iron | 4 mg |
| Selenium | 30 µg |
| Copper | 1.5 mg |
| Vitamin D | 6 µg |
| Phosphorus | 100 mg |
| Manganese | 0.5 mg |
Per 6 medium oysters (about 84 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, the Kumamoto oyster is a Japanese variety that became a global culinary icon after being introduced to the U.S. Pacific coast in the 1940s, and it's prized for its distinctively sweet, buttery flavor and petite size. Nutritionally, oysters are one of the best natural food sources of vitamin B12 and zinc, which are crucial for nerve function and immune health.
