Steamed Mussels
Steamed mussels are a classic dish that celebrates the briny sweetness of fresh mussels, steamed to perfection in a flavorful broth. This recipe highlights simplicity and elegance, making it ideal for both casual meals and special occasions.
Whether served as an appetizer or a main course with crusty bread for soaking up the delicious broth, steamed mussels are a favorite in seafood cuisine. Follow this recipe to learn how to prepare and enjoy steamed mussels at home, bringing the flavors of the sea to your table.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs (900g) fresh mussels, cleaned and debearded
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio)
- 1/2 cup seafood or chicken broth
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, plus extra for garnish
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Crusty bread, for serving
How to Make Steamed Mussels
Clean and Prepare Mussels:
Scrub the mussels under cold running water to remove any dirt or grit. Remove the beards (the tough fibers sticking out from between the shells) by pulling them firmly towards the hinge of the mussel. Discard any mussels with cracked shells or that do not close tightly when tapped.
Prepare the Broth:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Steam the Mussels:
Increase heat to medium-high. Pour in the white wine and seafood or chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.
Add Mussels and Cook:
Add the cleaned mussels to the pot. Sprinkle chopped parsley and red pepper flakes (if using) over the mussels. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Give everything a gentle stir.
Cover and Steam:
Cover the pot with a lid and steam the mussels for 5-7 minutes, shaking the pot occasionally. Cook until all the mussels have opened. Discard any mussels that do not open.
Serve:
Remove the pot from heat. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the steamed mussels to serving bowls. Pour the broth over the mussels.
Garnish and Enjoy:
Garnish with additional chopped parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread for dipping into the flavorful broth.
Chef’s Note
Ensure to discard any mussels that do not open after cooking, as they may not be safe to eat. For a richer broth, you can add a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk towards the end of cooking. Experiment with different herbs like thyme or basil for variations in flavor. Serve steamed mussels as a starter or a main course with a side salad for a complete meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving, about 1 lb of mussels)
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Protein: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Sugars: 1g
Enjoy this steamed mussels recipe as a delicious and satisfying dish that brings the taste of the sea to your dining table. Whether enjoyed as a cozy meal for two or served at a dinner party, steamed mussels are sure to impress with their simplicity and delightful flavors.
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