Why do they called oyster crackers

Oyster crackers are bite-sized buttery crackers which are commonly offered with meals in the Northeastern region of the United States. These small crackers are closely associated with soups and chowders, since they absorb liquid while adding some crunch for texture and little flavor of their own. Visitors to diners and chowder restaurants have also probably encountered packages of oyster crackers. Contrary to the implications of the name, oyster crackers do not, in fact, contain oysters.

The origins of the name are unclear; the crackers may be thus named because their shape does vaguely suggests a bivalve. These crackers also pair well with seafood soups and chowders, including those with contain oysters. It is possible that the crackers were originally marketed as the perfect companion for oysters, and that their name evolved over the years. A traditional oyster cracker is hexagonal in shape and slightly puffy. Some companies make round perfectly puffed crackers which strongly resemble shelled sea creatures.

The crackers are very crisp and crunchy by tradition, and some versions have small holes which make them look like tiny quilted pillows. Other oyster crackers may have crimped edges, and all versions have a rich, buttery flavor.

The crackers are also usually dusted with salt. There was a backlash after the shape and taste changed, but it was nothing compared to what ensued after the Oyster House started serving different crackers. Patrons try to dress nickel-size crackers with horseradish, making a mess.

Every day, Mink said, someone asks to speak to the owner of the restaurant about the crackers. After hearing the explanation, some suggest the Oyster House make its own. OTC is making the crackers again, but fewer of them, and suppliers have given local restaurateurs no hope of getting any.

It means that they care. Skip to content Share Icon. Facebook Logo. Link Icon. Oyster crackers were part of Philly history for more than a century. Then they disappeared. Published March 27,