West Indian Spiced Fried Mussels

Ingredients

In this West Indian adaptation, the traditional Dutch Gebakken mosselen is infused with the bold flavors of the Caribbean. The original dish typically features mussels cooked in white wine and served with a side of mayonnaise. However, in this West Indian version, the mussels are marinated in a blend of Caribbean spices, fried to perfection, and served with a zesty mango salsa. The addition of coconut milk and lime juice adds a tropical twist, giving the dish a unique flavor profile. We alse have the original recipe for Gebakken mosselen, so you can check it out.

• 2 pounds (900g) fresh mussels 2 pounds (900g) fresh mussels
• 1 tablespoon allspice 1 tablespoon allspice
• 1 tablespoon dried thyme 1 tablespoon dried thyme
• 1 scotch bonnet pepper, seeded and minced 1 scotch bonnet pepper, seeded and minced
• 1 cup (240ml) coconut milk 1 cup (240ml) coconut milk
• Juice of 2 limes Juice of 2 limes
• 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper 1 teaspoon black pepper
• Vegetable oil, for frying Vegetable oil, for frying
• For the mango salsa: For the mango salsa:
• 1 ripe mango, diced 1 ripe mango, diced
• 1 small red onion, finely chopped 1 small red onion, finely chopped
• 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and minced 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and minced
• Juice of 1 lime Juice of 1 lime
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
• Salt, to taste Salt, to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 8g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 28g, 8g
• Protein: 24g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Clean the mussels thoroughly, removing any beards and discarding any mussels that are open or damaged.
2. 2.
   In a large bowl, combine the allspice, dried thyme, minced scotch bonnet pepper, coconut milk, and lime juice. Add the cleaned mussels to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
3. 3.
   In a shallow dish, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, and black pepper.
4. 4.
   Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
5. 5.
   Remove the mussels from the marinade, allowing any excess liquid to drip off. Dredge the mussels in the seasoned flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
6. 6.
   Carefully place the coated mussels in the hot oil, frying them in batches for about 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Transfer the fried mussels to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
7. 7.
   In a separate bowl, combine the diced mango, chopped red onion, minced jalapeno pepper, lime juice, chopped cilantro, and salt. Mix well to combine.
8. 8.
   Serve the spiced fried mussels with the mango salsa on the side. Enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Mussels — Ensure that the mussels are fresh and discard any that are open or damaged before cooking.
• Scotch bonnet pepper — Be cautious when handling and mincing the scotch bonnet pepper, as it is very spicy. Consider wearing gloves or wash your hands thoroughly after handling.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, leave the seeds in the minced scotch bonnet pepper.
• Serve the spiced fried mussels with a side of steamed rice or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices.
• If you prefer a lighter version, you can also grill the marinated mussels instead of frying them.
• Adjust the amount of lime juice in the mango salsa according to your taste preference.
• To make the dish more colorful, garnish with fresh cilantro leaves before serving.

Serving advice

Serve the West Indian Spiced Fried Mussels as a main course, accompanied by a side of steamed rice or crusty bread. Provide small bowls for discarded mussel shells and extra napkins for easy cleanup.

Presentation advice

Arrange the spiced fried mussels on a large platter, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves. Place the mango salsa in a separate bowl and position it alongside the mussels. This vibrant and colorful presentation will entice your guests to dig in and savor the flavors of the Caribbean.