Mussels in Luxembourg style

Delicious Mussel Recipe in Luxembourgish Style

Total time: 45 minutes
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Mussels are a wonderful dish, often associated with seafood from coastal regions, but today we will focus on a simple yet extremely tasty recipe inspired by Luxembourgish culinary traditions. Even though Luxembourg does not stand out for an extremely diverse cuisine, French and German influences can be found in every dish. These mussels cooked with butter, garlic, and white wine are a clear proof that simplicity can bring exceptional flavor.

Necessary Ingredients

- 2 kg fresh mussels with shells
- 80 grams butter (preferably high-quality butter)
- 1 medium carrot, sliced
- 1 stalk of celery, sliced
- 5 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 fresh sprig of thyme
- 300 ml Riesling white wine (a wine with fruity and floral notes that perfectly complements mussels)
- 1/2 bunch of fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste

Preparing the Mussels

1. Cleaning the Mussels: Start by cleaning the mussels. Remove the "beard" (the string) that comes out of the shell and scrub each shell well under cold water to remove impurities. It is essential that the mussels are fresh and do not have broken or open shells. Discard any mussels that do not close when lightly tapped.

2. Preparing the Flavored Butter: Use a mortar to crush 3 cloves of garlic with a little salt until it becomes a paste. Add 40 grams of butter and mix well, then add a bit of pepper to enhance the flavor.

3. Sautéing the Vegetables: In a large skillet or pot, heat 40 grams of butter over medium heat. When the butter stops foaming, add the chopped onion and the other two cloves of garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.

4. Adding Carrot and Celery: Next, add the carrot and celery. Cook the mixture for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, then add the sprig of thyme and the Riesling white wine. Bring to a boil, then let simmer for 15 minutes for the flavors to combine.

5. Cooking the Mussels: Add the mussels to the pot and pour in the remaining wine. Increase the heat and cover with a lid. After 2-3 minutes, gently shake the pot to prevent the mussels from sticking to the bottom. Continue to cook for another 3 minutes until all the mussels have opened.

6. Finishing the Dish: Turn off the heat and add the flavored butter with garlic and the chopped parsley. Gently stir to combine all the ingredients. It is essential to discard any mussels that have not opened, as they are not safe to eat.

Serving

These mussels are served immediately, hot, and are perfectly accompanied by crispy fries or garlic butter bread. A personal touch I recommend is to serve alongside a glass of Riesling white wine, which will perfectly complement the dish with its delicate flavors.

Tips and Advice

- Choosing Mussels: Ensure the mussels are fresh. Buy them from a trusted supplier and do not hesitate to smell them to check for freshness.
- Vegetarian Option: If you want a vegetarian version, replace the mussels with large mushrooms, such as portobello mushrooms, which absorb the sauce's flavors just as well.
- Steaming: For a healthier option, you can steam the mussels using the same mixture of wine and spices.
- Frequently Asked Questions: What happens if the mussels do not open? It is important to discard any mussels that remain closed, as they can be dangerous to health.

Nutritional Benefits

Mussels are an excellent source of protein, being rich in B vitamins, zinc, and iron. They also contain omega-3 fatty acids, beneficial for heart health. Consumed in moderation, these seafood can be part of a balanced diet.

Pairing Recommendations

Besides fries and garlic bread, these mussels can be served with a fresh green salad or even a creamy risotto that absorbs the delicious flavors of the sauce.

In conclusion, this Luxembourgish-style mussel recipe is a perfect choice for an elegant dinner or a savory lunch. With a bit of patience and love, you can create a dish that will impress anyone. So put on your apron and let yourself be carried away by the delicious flavors of the sea!