Belgian-style Steamed Mussels

Ingredients

While the original Portuguese dish, Ostra ao bafo, focuses on steaming oysters, this Belgian adaptation replaces oysters with mussels, which are more commonly found in Belgian cuisine. Additionally, the flavor profile is adjusted to incorporate Belgian ingredients such as white wine, shallots, and butter, giving the dish a distinct Belgian twist. We alse have the original recipe for Ostra ao bafo, so you can check it out.

• 2 kg (4.4 lbs) fresh mussels 2 kg (4.4 lbs) fresh mussels
• 1 cup (240 ml) dry white wine 1 cup (240 ml) dry white wine
• 2 shallots, finely chopped 2 shallots, finely chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons butter 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 bay leaf 1 bay leaf
• 1 sprig of thyme 1 sprig of thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish Fresh parsley, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories: 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat: 12g (Saturated Fat: 6g)
• Carbohydrates: 12g (Sugars: 1g)
• Protein: 32g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Clean the mussels thoroughly, removing any beards and scrubbing off any debris. Discard any mussels that are open or damaged.
2. 2.
   In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the shallots and garlic, and sauté until translucent.
3. 3.
   Pour in the white wine and add the bay leaf and thyme. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. 4.
   Add the mussels to the pot and cover with a lid. Steam the mussels for about 5-7 minutes, or until they have opened.
5. 5.
   Remove the mussels from the pot using a slotted spoon and transfer them to a serving dish.
6. 6.
   Strain the broth to remove any impurities and pour it over the mussels.
7. 7.
   Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Mussels — Ensure that the mussels are fresh and alive before cooking. Discard any mussels that do not open after cooking.
• White wine — Choose a dry white wine with a crisp flavor, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, to enhance the taste of the broth.

Tips & Tricks

• Serve the mussels with a side of crispy Belgian fries and mayonnaise for an authentic Belgian experience.
• Use the broth as a base for a delicious seafood soup by adding additional seafood and vegetables.
• For added flavor, sprinkle some freshly ground black pepper over the mussels before serving.
• Enjoy the mussels with a glass of Belgian beer for a complete Belgian dining experience.
• Don't forget to provide extra bowls for the discarded mussel shells.

Serving advice

Serve the Belgian-style steamed mussels in a large communal dish, allowing guests to help themselves. Provide plenty of crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth.

Presentation advice

Present the mussels in a rustic-style serving dish, garnished with fresh parsley. Serve with a side of crispy fries and a dollop of tangy mayonnaise for dipping.