COCONUT AND CHILE CRUSTED OYSTERS WITH CARAMELIZED RED ONION-PINEAPPLE RELISH

First place in Appetizers and the Grand Prize winner

Michaela Rosenthal, Woodland Hills, Calif.

INGREDIENTS FOR OYSTERS

2 doz. Maryland oysters

1 Tbs. fresh lime juice

1 Tbs. Asian chile sauce

1 c. dark beer

1 c. all-purpose flour

2 c. shredded (unsweetened) coconut

1½ c. peanut oil

2 Tbs. toasted sesame oil

½ tsp. seafood seasoning

INGREDIENTS FOR RELISH

3 Tbs. clarified (unsalted) butter

1 (small) red onion, chopped

1¼ c. freshly chopped pineapple

¼ c. pineapple jam or preserve

2 Tbs. fresh lime juice

1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced

2 Tbs. freshly chopped basil

GARNISH

Boston lettuce leaves

Fresh lime wedges

Fresh basil leaves

Toss the oysters with the lime juice and chile sauce in a small bowl; set aside. In a separate bowl, whisk together the beer and flour to make a batter. Dip the oysters in the batter, one a...