How to cook mussels recipe

Mussels are a delicious shellfish, with a delicate flavour that can take on a number of accompaniments. However, a lot of people are afraid to cook them at home, feeling that they are too tricky, or easy to get wrong!

Want to know how to cook mussels? Our easy recipe will show you the classic method of how to cook mussels with minimal effort and mouthwatering results.

Mussels are a type of shellfish that are found in both salt and fresh water, and are popular in so many different cuisines, prepared in a variety of ways. Italians like to serve mussels in seafood pasta dishes, you’ll find them served in fragrant and spicy broths and sauces in Asian recipes, and some cultures even fry them.

Mussels are cheap, readily available, and one of the most sustainable types of shellfish to eat – all the more reason to add a classic mussels recipe to your repertoire. Moules frites (mussels with chips) is a classic Belgian dish that is also hugely popular in France. You’ll find bistros serving moules frites in every French seaside town, often offering unlimited chips!

Knowing how to cook mussels might seem intimidating, but they are actually so simple to make!

This easy but impressive recipe will add some French flair to dinner parties and summer lunches. All you need is some crusty bread or oven chips to make this a meal to remember.

For the perfect summer desert to follow the mussels, take a look at this delicious Eton mess.

Ingredients

• 2 shallots, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, crushed
• 180ml white wine
• 2kg mussels
• 150ml cream
• 1 bunch parsley, finely chopped

Method

1. In a large pan, fry the shallots in the butter for 5 minutes until softened, then add the garlic. Stir in the white wine at a high heat and as soon as the mixture starts to boil, tip in the mussels, discarding any that are already open, and cover the pan with a lid.
2. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the mussels have started to open their shells. Throw away any that haven't opened. Remove from the heat and stir in the cream and chopped parsley. Serve with French fries for a traditional Belgian moules frites, or sweet potato chips for a healthier twist.