Stuffed Mussels with Lucanian Twist

Ingredients

In the original Italian version, the stuffing for the mussels typically includes breadcrumbs, garlic, parsley, Parmesan cheese, and sometimes a touch of white wine. However, in this Lucanian adaptation, we incorporate the flavors of the region by using pecorino cheese and spicy Calabrian chili. These additions give the dish a unique Lucanian twist, adding a bit of heat and a distinct tanginess to the stuffing. We alse have the original recipe for Cozze ripiene, so you can check it out.

• 24 fresh mussels, cleaned and debearded 24 fresh mussels, cleaned and debearded
• 1 cup (100g) breadcrumbs 1 cup (100g) breadcrumbs
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup (30g) chopped fresh parsley 1/4 cup (30g) chopped fresh parsley
• 1/2 cup (50g) grated pecorino cheese 1/2 cup (50g) grated pecorino cheese
• 1 teaspoon spicy Calabrian chili flakes 1 teaspoon spicy Calabrian chili flakes
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for drizzling Olive oil for drizzling

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 10g, 4g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 20g, 2g
• Protein: 20g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. 2.
   In a bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, minced garlic, chopped parsley, grated pecorino cheese, and spicy Calabrian chili flakes. Mix well.
3. 3.
   Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
4. 4.
   Take each cleaned mussel and fill it generously with the breadcrumb mixture.
5. 5.
   Place the stuffed mussels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. 6.
   Drizzle the mussels with olive oil.
7. 7.
   Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the mussels are cooked through and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
8. 8.
   Serve the Stuffed Mussels hot as an appetizer or a main course.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Pecorino cheese — Use a good quality pecorino cheese for the best flavor. If unavailable, you can substitute with Parmesan cheese.
• Calabrian chili flakes — Adjust the amount according to your spice preference. If you prefer a milder version, reduce the amount or omit it altogether.

Tips & Tricks

• Make sure to thoroughly clean and debeard the mussels before stuffing them.
• Serve the Stuffed Mussels with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for an extra burst of flavor.
• If you prefer a crispier topping, broil the mussels for a minute or two after baking.

Serving advice

Serve the Stuffed Mussels as an appetizer with a side of crusty bread or as a main course accompanied by a fresh salad.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Stuffed Mussels on a platter, garnished with fresh parsley leaves and lemon wedges for an attractive presentation.