Best 2 Classic French Mussels Recipes
Welcome to the delectable world of classic French mussels, a timeless dish that captures the essence of culinary perfection. In this comprehensive guide, we will embark on a journey to explore the secrets of preparing this iconic seafood masterpiece. From selecting the freshest mussels to understanding the intricacies of the cooking process, we'll provide you with all the knowledge and techniques you need to create an unforgettable dish that will tantalize your taste buds and impress your dinner guests. So, let's dive into the world of classic French mussels and discover the art of crafting this culinary delight.
Check out the recipes below so you can choose the best recipe for yourself!
CLASSIC FRENCH MUSSELS RECIPE
Provided by ames107
Number Of Ingredients 10
Steps:
- Heat oil in lg pot over med-high heat, add shallots and garlic and cook until soft, 5 min. Add mussels, wine, cream, butter and parsley and season well with salt. Give it a good stir, cover pot, cook until mussels open and are cooked through, 10-15 min. Divide mussels and juices between 2 bowls and serve with crusty bread...
AHOY THERE! MOULES MARINIèRES - FRENCH SAILOR'S MUSSELS
I adore moules, mussels, and this is the classic French recipe for them. Moules Marinières is also commonly known as Sailor's mussels or Mariner's mussels. The dish consists of delicately steamed fresh mussels in a white wine, garlic, parsley, butter, onion and cream sauce. Moules Marinières can be served as an appetising starter or even a light main meal. It is delicious served with fresh crusty bread or with frites (chips/fries). There is nothing more mouth-watering than a huge bowl of artistically presented mussels, yet the fun part is eating them. The best way is to use an empty mussel shell as the "spoon" in which to pick the remaining mussels from their shells and then eat them. It's a brilliant excuse to use your fingers to eat rather than the usual knife and for - very tactile! A traditional French recipe will use butter, however the butter may be substituted for a few tablespoons of olive oil for a healthier option - I sometimes use a mix of butter and olive oil I hope you find the step-by-step photos helpful, this recipe was used in the September 2008 Cooking School for the TOTM - hopefully, the photos will debunk the myth that mussels are hard to prepare and cook, NOT so! Bon Appétit!
Provided by French Tart
Categories One Dish Meal
Time 35m
Yield 2 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 8
Steps:
- Place the live mussels in fresh water. Scrub and debeard the mussels (see the photos), discarding any that are open, broken or cracked.
- Fry the chopped onion and chopped garlic cloves (over medium heat) in a little butter (or oil) in the biggest saucepan you have. Add half of the finely chopped fresh herbs - I have used a mixture of parsley, oregano and tarragon. Season with black pepper, wait to season with salt to taste later.
- Add the white wine to the butter and herbs, and then tip in the freshly cleaned mussels - turn up the heat to high. Cover the pan and let the mussels steam for about 5 minutes. Shake the pan every minute or so to coat the mussels in the liquid.
- Take the pan off the heat and add the double cream or creme fraiche; then add of the remaining finely chopped herbs. Mix through thoroughly. That's it! Enjoy with crusty bread, frites and a chilled white wine -- divine!
- NB: Discard any mussels that don't open during cooking. (see photos).
Nutrition Facts : Calories 819.4, Fat 43.8, SaturatedFat 22.6, Cholesterol 237.5, Sodium 1642.5, Carbohydrate 28.2, Fiber 0.8, Sugar 3.1, Protein 62.5
Tips:
- Choose plump mussels: To ensure the best flavor and quality, select mussels that are tightly closed and have a shiny, unbroken shell. Avoid any mussels with cracked or chipped shells, as these may indicate age or damage.
- Properly clean the mussels: Before cooking, thoroughly clean the mussels to remove any dirt, sand, or debris. Use a stiff brush to scrub the shells under cold running water. Remove any barnacles or seaweed that may be attached to the shells.
- Use fresh ingredients: The quality of your ingredients will greatly impact the flavor of your mussels. Use fresh herbs, such as parsley, thyme, and bay leaves, to enhance the taste. High-quality white wine will also contribute to the overall flavor of the dish.
- Cook the mussels until they open: Mussels typically take 5-7 minutes to cook. Cook them until the shells open, which indicates that they are done. Discard any mussels that remain closed after cooking, as they may not be safe to eat.
- Serve immediately: Mussels are best served immediately after cooking. They can be enjoyed as an appetizer or main course, paired with crusty bread or frites (French fries).
Conclusion:
In conclusion, preparing classic French mussels is a delightful culinary experience that offers a taste of French coastal cuisine. By following the tips and techniques outlined in this comprehensive guide, you can create a flavorful and succulent mussel dish that will impress your family and friends. Remember to choose fresh, high-quality mussels, clean them properly, and cook them until they open. Experiment with different variations of the recipe, such as adding different herbs, spices, or vegetables, to create your own unique mussel dish. Whether you serve them as an appetizer or main course, classic French mussels are sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
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