OYSTERS

OYSTERS - Served simply, on the half-shell with a squeeze of lemon. Provide crackers and cocktail sauce for those wary of slurping straight from the shell.

BAKED RICE  - makes 6 cups, enough for 2 batches of gumbo

Ingredients:

2 cups uncooked rice (not instant)
2-1/2 cups high-quality chicken stock
1-1/2 tbsp very finely chopped onions
1-1/2 tbsp very finely chopped celery
1-1/2 tbsp very finely chopped red bell peppers
1-1/2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
1/2 tsp salt
1/8 tsp garlic powder
a pinch of cayenne pepper

Method:

In a 5x9x2.5 loaf pan, combine all ingredients and mix well. Seal pan snugly with aluminum foil. Bake at 350° until the rice is tender, about 1 hour 10 minutes. Serve immediately.