Oyster Sandwiches

Directions

1. 1
   To make the biscuits: preheat oven to 450-degrees F.
2. 2
   Grease cookie sheets.
3. 3
   In a large bowl, sift together flour - baking soda. Cut in shortening until mixture resembles coarse meal. Stir in buttermilk until dough comes together.
4. 4
   Turn dough out onto floured board.
5. 5
   Knead dough gently 10 times, adding more flour if needed.
6. 6
   Roll dough out to a thickness of 3/16 - inch and then cut into 16 rounds using a 2-inch cookie cutter (I use a coffee cup) and then transfer to prepared cookie sheets.
7. 7
   Bake for 12-14 minutes or unti lightly browned. Cool on wire racks.
8. 8
   For the relish: in a heavy skillet over medium heat fry bacon until crisp. Remove and drain on paper towels. Pour off all but 3 tablespoons drippings.
9. 9
   Stir water into skillet and then add next 3 ingredients (tomatoes - garlic) and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until peppers are soft and mixture thickens. Stir in parsley and salt and pepper.
10. 10
    Crumble bacon into relish and set aside.
11. 11
    Preheat broiler: arrange oysters on broiler pan, brushing with oil and lemon juice.
12. 12
    Broil for 4-5 minutes, turning once or until edges begin to curl. DO NOT OVERCOOK.
13. 13
    To assemble sandwiches: split biscuits. Spead both halfs with relish and top 1 half with oystes and then cover with second half. Repeat for remaining sandwiches.