Mussels

Mytilus edulis (common blue mussel) Seafood

Mussels Seafood

At a Glance

  • Category Seafood

The Forktionary Angle

"Mussels Masterclass: From Ocean Floor to Flavorful Feast."

Definition

Bivalve mollusks with dark, elongated shells, highly prized for their tender, briny, and slightly sweet meat, often steamed or sautéed.

Global Aquaculture Production (2020) ~2 million tons
Protein Content ~24g per 100g
Shelf Life (Fresh) 2-3 days refrigerated

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Mussels are:

Briny slightly sweet oceanic earthy

Chef’s Secret

Before cooking, give mussels a final rinse in ice water to encourage them to close tightly, indicating freshness.

Best Substitutes

Clams

similar texture
Ratio 1:1

Oysters

more briny
Ratio 1:1

Scallops

different texture
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Look for mussels with tightly closed shells; discard any that are open and don't close when tapped.

Recipes Using Mussels

Mussels Seafood One Dish Meal Course

Beer Steamed Mussels

Dive into a flavorful seafood feast with this irresistible Beer Steamed Mussels recipe! Perfectly plump mussels are steamed in a rich, aromatic broth of beer, garlic, and onion, creating a delicious sauce you'll want to soak up with crusty bread. Easily customizable – add other seafood for an even more extravagant meal! This recipe is halved for convenience, perfect for a romantic dinner or a cozy night in.

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Low In Something Healthy Preparation Low Carb

Favorite Cioppino

Recreate the magic of a beloved restaurant dish! This Cioppino recipe, once a secret menu item, is now yours to enjoy. Packed with succulent seafood, vibrant herbs, and a rich tomato broth, it's a symphony of flavors perfect for a special occasion or a cozy weeknight dinner. Customize it with your favorite seafood and herbs—feel free to experiment! Don't forget the crusty garlic bread to soak up every last drop of deliciousness.

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Time To Make For 1 Or 2 Shellfish Main Ingredient

Beach House Mussels

Escape to the coast with this vibrant Beach House Mussel recipe! Unlike other generic mussel dishes, this recipe offers a fresh, flavorful twist, perfect for a weeknight meal. Quickly cooked and bursting with deliciousness, it's best served with crusty bread for soaking up the amazing broth. Feel free to adjust ingredient quantities to your liking – it's all about creating your perfect beachside escape!

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Lunch Stove Top 5 Ingredients Or Less Preparation

Bennett's Mussels

A taste of Long Island's culinary history! This recipe, unearthed from an old Westhampton Beach cookbook, recreates the legendary mussels from Bennett's Seafood Market. Experience the simple perfection of perfectly steamed mussels in a fragrant garlic and white wine broth, served with crusty bread for dipping. This easy recipe is ready in under 30 minutes – a delightful weeknight meal or impressive appetizer.

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Brunch Dietary Time To Make Mussels

Avocado Filled With Marinated Scallops And Mussels

Impress your guests with this elegant and flavorful appetizer! Creamy avocado halves are generously filled with perfectly marinated scallops and mussels, creating a delightful balance of textures and tastes. This recipe is surprisingly easy to make and requires minimal prep time, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

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Preparation Mussels Served Hot Appetizers

Ahoy There Moules Marinires French Sailor's Mussels

Experience the taste of the French coast with this classic Moules Marinières recipe! Delicate, fresh mussels are steamed to perfection in a rich, savory sauce of white wine, garlic, parsley, butter (or olive oil for a healthier twist!), onion, and cream. This irresistible dish, also known as Sailor's Mussels or Mariner's Mussels, makes a fantastic appetizer or a light yet satisfying main course. Serve with crusty bread for dipping or alongside crispy frites (fries) for a truly authentic experience. Learn how to easily prepare and cook these mussels – our step-by-step guide makes it effortless! Get ready for a fun, interactive meal where you use the empty shells as your 'spoons'! Bon appétit!

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Easy Main Ingredient Course 3 Steps Or Less

Atlantic Seafood Chowder

Dive into a taste of the Atlantic with this decadent seafood chowder! Bursting with fresh lobster, halibut, salmon, scallops, mussels, and clams, this creamy and flavorful chowder is a true culinary masterpiece. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to impress. Get ready for a seafood extravaganza!

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Main Ingredient Easy For 1 Or 2 Low Saturated Fat

Belgian Mussels

Dive into the rich flavors of Belgium with this authentic Mussel recipe! A classic dish enjoyed nationwide during mussel season, this recipe is quick, easy, and bursting with deliciousness. Perfectly plump mussels are cooked to perfection in a savory broth, then served alongside crispy, homemade Belgian fries for an unforgettable culinary experience. This recipe is a must-try for seafood lovers and anyone seeking an authentic taste of Belgium.

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Time To Make 60 Minutes Or Less Main Dish Seafood

Asian Stir Fried Mussels And Prawns

Dive into a flavor explosion with this quick and easy Asian Stir-Fried Mussels and Prawns recipe! Ready in under an hour, this light yet satisfying meal is perfect for a weeknight dinner. Learn how to achieve perfectly cooked seafood with our expert tips, ensuring a delicious dish free from any unwanted fishy smells. We'll show you how to prep your mussels like a pro, and even offer a solution for those extra-gritty finds! Get ready for a culinary adventure that's both impressive and incredibly simple.

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