Simple Steamed Mussels

Simple steamed mussels are a delicious and satisfying dish perfect for a quick meal or as an appetizer for a larger gathering. This recipe focuses on letting the natural flavor of mussels shine by enhancing them with basic spices. Mussels are a great source of lean protein, vitamins, and minerals, making them a healthy addition to your diet. The recipe is easy to prepare and doesn't require expert culinary skills, making it ideal for beginners. Fresh or frozen mussels can be used, and the dish is quite forgiving when it comes to seasoning adjustments. Mussels are versatile and can be paired with a variety of sides, from salads to crusty bread, to soak up the flavorful broth. The gentle cooking method ensures the mussels are tender and infused with the deliciousness of the seasoning. Mussels cook quickly, so this dish is ready in under an hour, great for a busy weeknight. Enjoy them warm or cold, and customize them with your favorite side dishes. This steamed mussels recipe provides a delightful culinary experience with minimal effort, making it a favorite in any seafood lover's kitchen.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 2 x 200 g frozen mussel meat
• 0.5 liters milk
• 150 ml oil

Spices

• 1/3 teaspoon ground pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Preparation Time

Total time: 40 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Thaw Mussels: If using frozen mussel meat, ensure it's properly thawed before starting.
2. Prepare Cooking Liquid: Pour 0.5 liters of milk into a large pan.
3. Season the Milk: Add 1/3 teaspoon of ground pepper and 1/2 teaspoon of salt to the milk. Adjust the amount of salt to taste, keeping it slightly saltier than you prefer at this stage.
4. Heat the Milk: Bring the milk to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
5. Cook Mussels in Milk: Add the thawed mussels to the simmering milk.
6. Stir Occasionally: To ensure even cooking, gently stir mussels and milk mixture occasionally.
7. Monitor Foam Formation: After 10-15 minutes of cooking, the mussels will release juices, and foam will form on top.
8. Remove Excess Milk: Carefully drain most of the milk, leaving just enough to keep the mussels moist.
9. Add Oil: Pour 150 ml of oil over the mussels remaining in the pan.
10. Continue Cooking: Increase heat slightly and continue to cook the mussels.
11. Stir Well: Stir the mussels occasionally to ensure they are coated in oil and cook evenly.
12. Check for Browning: Cook until mussels are lightly browned and achieve a slightly crispy texture.
13. Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more pepper or salt to your preference.
14. Plate Mussels: Use a slotted spoon or tongs to transfer the mussels to a serving plate.
15. Prepare Sides: While mussels rest, prepare sides like Korean carrot salad or seaweed.
16. Serve Warm or Cold: Mussels can be served either warm or cold, depending on preference.
17. Pair with Side Dishes: Garnish with sides, enhancing the meal's presentation and flavor.
18. Plate with Style: Arrange neatly on a plate for a visually appealing presentation.
19. Enjoy Your Meal: Serve immediately, savoring each flavorful bite.
20. Bon Appétit: Enjoy the delightful combination of textures and tastes with a chilled beverage, if desired.

Tips

• Use Fresh Mussels: For a fresher taste, consider using fresh mussels instead of frozen.
• Experiment with Flavors: Add a splash of white wine or a pinch of paprika for a different flavor profile.
• Oil Alternatives: Use olive oil for a rich, fruity aroma or coconut oil for a subtle sweetness.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 560 kcal per serving
• Protein: 40g
• Fats: 30g
• Carbs: 15g

Variations

• Dairy-Free: Substitute almond or coconut milk for cow's milk.
• Spicy Kick: Add a dash of chili flakes or cayenne pepper for a spicy version.
• Gluten-Free Option: Ensure all spices and side dishes are free of gluten-containing ingredients.

Serving Suggestions

• Side Dishes: Korean carrot salad, seaweed salad, or a simple green salad.
• Drink Pairings: White wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a crisp cold beer.
• Garnishes: Fresh herbs like parsley or chives, lemon wedges for zest.

Best Places

• The Mussel Pot - Known for their steamed mussels with fragrant herbs. Location: 99 Green Street, Nelson, New Zealand.
• Belgian Beer Café - Specializes in traditional Belgian mussels and frites. Location: 135 South Wharf Promenade, Melbourne, Australia.
• Catch 22 - Offers a contemporary twist on seafood classics including mussels. Location: 36 Flyover Ave, Scottsdale, USA.
• Barbados Purple Turtle - Known for exquisite seafood and beachside ambiance. Location: Bathsheba, Saint Joseph, Barbados.
• La Mar - Celebrated for their Peruvian twist on traditional seafood dishes. Location: Av. Malecón de la Reserva 610, Lima, Peru.
• Oyster Bar & Grill - Offers fresh, local sea produce in creative dishes. Location: 233 George Street, Sydney, Australia.
• Le Chique - A gastronomy hotspot with innovative seafood cuisine. Location: Carretera Cancún-Tulum km. 45, Riviera Maya, Mexico.
• J Sheekey - Offers London's finest seafood dishes, including a renowned mussel platter. Location: 28-32 St Martin's Court, London, UK.
• Aqua Shard - Famous for its incredible view and fine dining seafood options. Location: Level 31, The Shard, London, UK.
• Les Fables de la Fontaine - Praised for rustic flair and exceptional mussel dishes. Location: 131 Rue Saint-Dominique, Paris, France.