Rice with shrimp and mussels

Shrimp and Mussels Rice – an unforgettable seafood delicacy

Welcome to the world of Mediterranean flavors, where every ingredient contributes to a savory recipe! Today, I invite you to prepare a delicious shrimp and mussels rice together. This recipe, similar to a paella but with a personal touch, will transform any meal into a feast.

Total preparation time: 50 minutes
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 35 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:

- 1 cup of rice (preferably long-grain rice)
- 10 peeled shrimp
- 100 g frozen mussels
- 1 cup of red wine (choose a quality wine that you enjoy drinking)
- 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- 1 carrot
- 1 cube of Maggi seasoning (or another chicken broth cube)
- Dried basil (1 teaspoon)
- Oregano (1 teaspoon)
- White pepper (to taste)
- Salt (to taste)

Recipe history

The roots of seafood rice recipes are lost in the mists of time, being a dish appreciated in various cultures. Over the years, it has evolved, adapting to local ingredients and culinary preferences. Today, this recipe is a perfect combination of fresh ingredients and simple cooking techniques that will bring you a little bit of the vacation atmosphere by the sea.

Step-by-step preparation

1. Preparing the rice: Start by washing the rice under a stream of cold water to remove excess starch. This step is essential for achieving fluffy and well-cooked rice. After washing, heat a large pan over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the rice and sauté for 2 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent sticking.

2. Boiling the carrot: In a separate pot, add salted water and the Maggi seasoning cube. Add the whole carrot and boil it for 15-20 minutes until it becomes soft. Then, remove it from the water and let it cool.

3. Preparing the broth: The broth obtained from boiling the carrot will be used to cook the rice. Gradually add this broth over the sautéed rice, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. This step is crucial to obtain well-hydrated and flavored rice.

4. Grating the carrot: Once the carrot has cooled, grate it and add it to the cooked rice. This will add not only flavor but also a pleasant color to the dish.

5. Preparing the shrimp and mussels: In a separate pan, heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat. Add the peeled shrimp and frozen mussels. Sprinkle the dried basil, oregano, white pepper, and a little salt. Cook these ingredients for 5-7 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and the mussels open.

6. Adding the wine: Once the shrimp and mussels are almost cooked, add the red wine and a little water. Let everything simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to blend. This step adds depth to the dish's taste.

7. Finalizing the dish: Once the shrimp and mussels are ready, add them over the cooked rice. Gently stir to combine the ingredients. Season with salt, pepper, and freshly chopped basil if available.

8. Serving: The shrimp and mussels rice is served warm, alongside pickles for a contrast of flavors. A fresh green salad or a tomato and onion salad can be a perfect accompaniment.

Practical tips:

- It is essential to use extra virgin olive oil for an authentic taste.
- If you want to add other seafood, calamari or white fish are excellent choices.
- You can substitute red wine with white wine for a milder taste.
- Make sure not to overcook the shrimp, as they become rubbery and lose their delicate texture.
- The rice can be prepared in advance, and the seafood can be added just before serving.

Nutritional information:

This recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Shrimp are an excellent source of protein, and mussels contain omega-3 fatty acids essential for heart health. The rice provides complex carbohydrates, offering lasting energy. The carrot adds vitamins and antioxidants, contributing to a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can the dish be frozen? Yes, you can freeze it, but it is best to consume the dish fresh to preserve all the flavors.
- Can I use brown rice? Yes, but the cooking time will be longer, so make sure to adjust the liquid and boiling time.
- What drinks pair best with this dish? A dry white wine or a seafood cocktail are excellent choices.

In conclusion, this shrimp and mussels rice recipe is perfect for a relaxed weekend lunch or a festive dinner. With just a few simple ingredients and easy techniques, you will create an exceptional dish that will impress friends and family. Feel free to experiment with the ingredients, adding your favorites. Enjoy every bite!