Kodava-style Safron Mussels

Ingredients

In this Kodava-style adaptation, we incorporate traditional Kodava spices and flavors to enhance the original French dish. The saffron-infused broth is enriched with Kodava spices, giving the dish a distinct aroma and taste. Additionally, we use locally sourced ingredients commonly found in Kodava cuisine to add an authentic touch to the recipe. We alse have the original recipe for Moules au safran, so you can check it out.

• 2 pounds (900g) fresh mussels 2 pounds (900g) fresh mussels
• 2 tablespoons coconut oil 2 tablespoons coconut oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1 teaspoon Kodava spice blend (made with coriander, cumin, black pepper, and fenugreek) 1 teaspoon Kodava spice blend (made with coriander, cumin, black pepper, and fenugreek)
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder
• A pinch of saffron threads A pinch of saffron threads
• 1 cup (240ml) coconut milk 1 cup (240ml) coconut milk
• Salt to taste Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 20g, 15g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 10g, 2g
• Protein: 25g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Clean the mussels thoroughly, removing any beards and discarding any open or damaged ones.
2. 2.
   Heat coconut oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
3. 3.
   Add minced garlic and grated ginger to the pan and cook for another minute.
4. 4.
   Stir in the Kodava spice blend, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and saffron threads. Cook for a minute to release the flavors.
5. 5.
   Pour in the coconut milk and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
6. 6.
   Add the cleaned mussels to the pan and cover with a lid. Cook for about 5-7 minutes or until the mussels open up.
7. 7.
   Season with salt to taste and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
8. 8.
   Serve hot with steamed rice or crusty bread.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Coconut milk — Shake the can of coconut milk well before using to ensure the cream and liquid are well combined.
• Saffron threads — Soak the saffron threads in a tablespoon of warm water for a few minutes before adding them to the dish to enhance their flavor and color.

Tips & Tricks

• Ensure the mussels are fresh and discard any that do not open after cooking.
• Serve the dish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a tangy twist.
• Adjust the spice levels according to your preference by increasing or decreasing the amount of red chili powder.

Serving advice

Serve the Kodava-style Safron Mussels as a main course with steamed rice or crusty bread. Accompany it with a fresh green salad to balance the flavors.

Presentation advice

Present the dish in a shallow bowl, allowing the vibrant yellow broth to showcase the mussels. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro leaves for a pop of color.