06 Jul, 2023
Mussels are the ultimate seafood for the bold and adventurous. Not only are they delicious, but they're also a sustainable option for those who care about the planet. So if you're ready to step up your seafood game and try something new, mussels are the perfect choice.
How to harvest mussels in the UK
Mussels are readily available in most supermarkets these days and are a great option for ease. But if you’ve got time and feel the sense of adventure, why not try harvesting mussels yourself? The UK has plenty of prime locations to find these gems, including Cornwall in England, Conwy Estuary in North Wales and the Isle of Mull in Scotland. Just make sure to check local regulations and only collect mussels from areas where it's legal to do so. And remember, when it comes to mussels, the bolder the better. Look for mussels that are healthy and alive, and don't shy away from ones that have a bit of character like a barnacle or two. Make sure to only choose ones with closed shells though and avoid any that are open or have broken shells.
How to cook Moules Frites at home
For the ultimate dish for entertaining friends, try Moules Frites. This classic French dish is made with steamed mussels in a white wine and garlic sauce, paired with crispy fries. To really take things to the next level, serve it with Dark Horse Chardonnay. This dry, mellow wine complements the richness of the mussels and garlic sauce in moules frites. The toasted oak notes add depth to the dish, while the notes of baked apple and honey tones helps to cut through the cream sauce. The Chardonnay also has smooth caramel undertones that balance out the saltiness of the fries, making it a perfect pairing for this indulgent meal.
On the other hand, Dark Horse Sauvignon Blanc is a crisp option that pairs perfectly with the briny flavours of the mussels. The wine's bright acidity cuts through the richness of the garlic sauce and cream, while its notes of citrus and tropical fruit add a burst of flavour. The Sauvignon Blanc's clean finish also makes it an excellent palate cleanser between bites of the salty fries, making it a perfect wine to pair with moules frites.
Here's a recipe for moules frites:
Ingredients:
- 900 grams mussels
- 100 grams shallot, finely chopped
- 10 grams garlic, minced
- 240 ml white wine
- 120 ml heavy cream
- 28 grams butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- 450 grams potatoes, cut into fries
Directions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the shallot and garlic in butter until softened.
2. Add the white wine and bring to a simmer.
3. Add the mussels and cover the pot. Cook for 5-7 minutes, until the mussels have opened.
4. Remove the mussels from the pot and set aside.
5. Add the heavy cream to the pot and simmer until the sauce has thickened.
6. Meanwhile, heat the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or a large pot until hot. Fry the potato fries until crispy and golden brown.
7. Serve the mussels with the sauce and the fries on the side. To truly elevate this dish, why not sprinkle some blue cheese across the top for an added twist?
Mussels in tomato red wine sauce
Ready to up the ante even more? Try something unconventional and cook mussels in a tomato-based sauce, paired with Dark Horse Merlot. The bold, fruity notes of the Merlot complement the tangy tomato sauce and the briny mussels, creating a truly exciting experience.
Here's a recipe for mussels in tomato sauce:
Ingredients:
- 900 grams mussels
- 100 grams onion, chopped
- 10 grams garlic, minced
- 1 can (400 grams) crushed tomatoes
- 120 ml red wine
- 28 grams olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in olive oil until softened.
2. Add the crushed tomatoes and red wine and bring to a simmer.
3. Add the mussels and cover the pot. Cook for 5-7 minutes, until the mussels have opened.
4. Remove the mussels from the pot and set aside.
5. Simmer the tomato sauce until it has thickened.
6. Serve the mussels with the tomato sauce on top.
Cook mussels on the BBQ
If you're looking for a unique way to cook mussels, try grilling them on a BBQ or an open fire. Simply place the mussels on a grill or a cast iron skillet and cook until they open. Serve with a squeeze of lemon and some crusty bread for dipping in the delicious juices. Grilling mussels on a BBQ or open fire adds a smoky, bold flavour that takes these already indulgent molluscs to the next level.
So, if you're ready to step up your seafood game and try something new, mussels are the ultimate choice. Why not harvest them yourself for an adventurous and sustainable experience? Try classic dishes like moules frites or more unconventional recipes like mussels in tomato sauce. And don't be afraid to experiment with different cooking methods, like grilling on a BBQ or an open fire. With mussels, the more adventurous you are, the better.