Oysters may be a delicacy, but that doesn’t mean they make it easy on you when it comes time to dine. After all, their clamshell design is intended to help keep the squishy innards protected from predators – and that includes us. Sure, a fresh oyster is still worth the struggle.

But does it have to be a struggle?

Following this easy step-by-step guide can make the oyster opening process nice and easy.

Opening Oysters with a Knife

While it may seem hard, opening an oyster with a knife is actually fairly easy.

Special oyster shucking knives can make it even easier, though other kitchen and multipurpose knives can be used in a pinch.

First, make sure that you have the oyster firmly secured on a non-slip surface. Think towels and cutting boards, not slick countertops.

Next, you’ll want to push the knife into the oyster with a steady twisting motion. You’ll need to apply enough force to pry it open, but not too much or you’ll crack and spoil it. The best way to accomplish this with minimal mess or damage to the oyster is to slide it around the bottom.

Cut toward the middle along the bottom adductor muscle. Once you’re there, you should be ready to gently push upward and pop off the top shell.

Finally, you’ll want to remove the bottom shell. This is done the same way as the top shell, and should be easier now that it’s been removed.

Open with Heat

No knife? No problem. Grills, campfires, and other heating options can cause oysters to pop open.

That said, you need to be careful. Too much heat can spoil them or cause them to explode. Once you start hearing popping, the oysters are done and the heat should be lowered immediately.

Whether you use shucking knives or sufficient heat, these steps can make opening oysters easy.