Not only is this a delicious way of enjoying seafood but it’s sustainably sourced and rich in nutrients. Mussels are also incredibly cheap and low in calories. I’ve been told that a portion only contains 90 calories!
For a dish to impress, you only need fresh herbs, a few cloves of garlic, onion, white wine and double cream. Preparing mussels is takes hardly any time and if possible try and buy mussels that have been de-bearded. If not, the simple guide below should be helpful.
Try it today, you won’t regret it!
Moules Marinière
Adapted from BBC Good Food
Serves 4
Ingredients
1kg mussels
3 garlic cloves, chopped
Half onion, chopped
15g butter
Bunch of fresh parsley, coarsely chopped
1 bay leaf
120ml white wine
120ml double cream
Freshly ground black pepper
Crusty bread, to serve
Method
- Wash the mussels under plenty of cold, running water. Discard any opened mussels that won't close even after being lightly squeezed.
- Pull out the fibrous beards that protrudes out of the tightly closed shells. Give the clean mussels another rinse in cold water to remove any remaining broken shells.
- Soften the garlic and onions in a large pan with butter and parsley. Set aside a handful of the chopped parsley which will be used as a garnish. *The pan used should be large enough that it should be half full when the mussels are added.
- Add the mussels and wine, turn up the heat and cover and the them steam in their own juices for 3-4 minutes. Give the pan a good shake every now and again.
- Add the cream and a pinch of freshly ground black pepper.
- Remove from heat and spoon mussels into large warmed bowls.
- Top with remaining chopped parsley and serve with crusty bread.
