Name: Creamy Mussels Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: ½ onion; 1 bay leaf; 1 garlic clove; 2 tbsp Carrot; ⅔ cup fish stock; ⅔ cup dry white wine; 4 lbs fresh mussels; ⅔ cup heavy cream; salt and pepper

Indulge in this exquisite creamy mussels recipe, where the delicate flavors of mussels meld seamlessly with a rich and velvety sauce. This dish is perfect for seafood enthusiasts looking to elevate their meal with a touch of gourmet flair.

Photos of Creamy Mussels Recipe

Some ingredients in this recipe might not be staples in your pantry. Fresh mussels need to be purchased from the seafood section or a fishmonger to ensure they're fresh and safe to eat. Fish stock can usually be found in the soup or broth aisle, and dry white wine is available in the wine section. Make sure to check for these items when you head to the supermarket.

Ingredients for Creamy Mussels Recipe

Onion: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor to the dish.

Bay leaf: Provides a mild, herbal aroma that enhances the broth.

Garlic clove: Imparts a fragrant, savory note that complements the seafood.

Carrot: Contributes a slight sweetness and texture to the broth.

Fish stock: A flavorful liquid base that enriches the overall taste of the dish.

Dry white wine: Adds a crisp acidity and complexity to the broth.

Mussels: The star of the dish, providing a tender, briny flavor.

Heavy cream: Creates a luxurious, creamy texture for the sauce.

Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance and balance the flavors.

One reader, Chelsey Dixon says:

This creamy mussels recipe is a delight! The flavors blend perfectly, and the mussels are tender and delicious. The broth is rich and comforting, making it a perfect dish for any seafood lover. Highly recommend!

Chelsey Dixon

Techniques Required

How to chop an onion: Peel the onion and cut it in half. Place the flat side down and make horizontal cuts, then vertical cuts to dice it finely. How to mince garlic: Peel the garlic clove and use a knife to finely chop it into small pieces. How to julienne a carrot: Peel the carrot and cut it into thin matchstick-sized pieces. How to clean mussels: Rinse the mussels under cold water, scrub the shells, and remove the beards by pulling them out with your fingers or a knife. How to use a slotted spoon: Use the spoon to scoop out the mussels, allowing the liquid to drain through the slots.

How To Make Creamy Mussels

Seafood lovers are going to love this deliciously savory mussels recipe! It’s cooked in delicious cream and wine for a more hearty plate.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 10 minutes

Total: 20 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

½oniondiced
1bay leaf
1garlic clovechopped
2tbspcarrotfinely chopped
⅔cupfish stock
⅔cupdry white wine
4lbsfresh musselsscrubbed and debearded
⅔cupheavy cream
Salt and pepperto taste

Instructions

In a large saucepan, combine the onion, bay leaf, garlic, carrot, fish stock, and wine.
Bring to a boil, and cook for 5 minutes.
Add the mussels to the boiling mixture, cover, and cook over high heat for 5 minutes, until the mussels open.
Shake the pan occasionally to cook evenly.
When the mussels have opened, remove them with a slotted spoon and set aside.
Remove the bay leaf from the broth, and stir in the heavy cream. Heat through, but do not boil.
Taste, and season with salt and pepper.
Place the mussels into serving dishes, and spoon the broth over them.
Serve, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 579.23kcal
Fat: 25.25g
Saturated Fat: 11.18g
Monounsaturated Fat: 6.65g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.38g
Carbohydrates: 22.20g
Fiber: 0.88g
Sugar: 2.35g
Protein: 56.15g
Cholesterol: 181.74mg
Sodium: 1380.39mg
Calcium: 163.80mg
Potassium: 1628.01mg
Iron: 18.33mg
Vitamin A: 415.87µg
Vitamin C: 38.26mg

Technique Tip for This Recipe

To ensure the mussels cook evenly and open up properly, give the pan a good shake every couple of minutes while they steam. This helps distribute the heat and allows the mussels to cook uniformly.

How to Save Time on This Recipe

Prep ingredients in advance: Chop the onion, garlic, and carrot ahead of time to streamline the cooking process.

Use pre-made fish stock: Save time by using store-bought fish stock instead of making it from scratch.

Clean mussels beforehand: Scrub and debeard the mussels before starting the recipe to avoid interruptions.

Measure liquids early: Measure out the wine and heavy cream before you begin cooking.

Cook in batches: If your pan is small, cook the mussels in batches to ensure even cooking.

Substitute Ingredients For Creamy Mussels Recipe

½ onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots provide a similar flavor profile but are slightly sweeter and more delicate.
1 bay leaf - Substitute with thyme: Thyme offers a different but complementary herbal note that works well in creamy dishes.
1 garlic clove - Substitute with garlic powder: Use 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder for each clove to maintain the garlic flavor.
2 tbsp carrot - Substitute with celery: Celery adds a similar aromatic base and crunch to the dish.
⅔ cup fish stock - Substitute with vegetable stock: Vegetable stock provides a similar depth of flavor without the fishiness.
⅔ cup dry white wine - Substitute with chicken broth: Chicken broth adds a savory depth without the alcohol content.
4 lbs fresh mussels - Substitute with clams: Clams offer a similar texture and briny flavor, making them a good alternative to mussels.
⅔ cup heavy cream - Substitute with coconut milk: Coconut milk provides a creamy texture and a subtle sweetness that complements seafood.
salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce adds umami and saltiness, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.
pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper offers a milder heat and a slightly different flavor profile that blends well in creamy dishes.

Best Way to Present This Dish

Use a deep, wide bowl: Select a pristine white bowl to contrast with the vibrant colors of the mussels and broth.
Arrange the mussels artfully: Place the mussels in the bowl with the shells facing upward, creating a visually appealing pattern.
Pour the creamy broth delicately: Gently ladle the broth over the mussels, ensuring each one gets a generous coating without drowning them.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle finely chopped parsley or chives over the dish to add a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
Add a touch of citrus: Place a thin slice of lemon or a wedge on the side of the bowl to enhance the presentation and offer a burst of acidity.
Serve with crusty bread: Accompany the dish with a slice of toasted baguette or sourdough on a separate plate, perfect for soaking up the delicious broth.
Drizzle with a hint of olive oil: Finish with a light drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil over the mussels and broth for added richness and shine.
Use a contrasting napkin: Place a dark-colored napkin under the bowl to make the dish stand out and add a touch of elegance to the presentation.

Best Tools for This Recipe

Large saucepan: Used to combine the onion, bay leaf, garlic, carrot, fish stock, and wine, and to cook the mussels.
Slotted spoon: Essential for removing the mussels from the broth without taking too much liquid.
Knife: Needed to finely chop the onion, garlic, and carrot.
Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping the vegetables.
Measuring cups: Used to measure the fish stock, wine, and heavy cream accurately.
Stirring spoon: Useful for stirring the broth and incorporating the heavy cream.
Lid: Necessary to cover the saucepan while the mussels cook, ensuring they steam properly.
Serving dishes: Used to present the mussels and broth attractively.
Tongs: Handy for handling the mussels when transferring them to serving dishes.
Heat-resistant gloves: Important for safely handling the hot saucepan and lid.

How to Store or Freeze This Dish

Allow the mussels and broth to cool to room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation, which can affect the texture and flavor.
Transfer the mussels to an airtight container, ensuring they are covered with the broth. This keeps them moist and flavorful.
Store the container in the refrigerator if you plan to consume the creamy mussels within 2 days. The cold temperature helps maintain their freshness.
For longer storage, place the container in the freezer. The mussels can be frozen for up to 3 months without significant loss of quality.
When ready to enjoy, thaw the mussels in the refrigerator overnight. This gradual thawing preserves their texture.
Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. Avoid boiling to prevent the cream from curdling.
If the broth appears too thick after reheating, add a splash of fish stock or white wine to achieve the desired consistency.
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper before serving.

How to Reheat Leftovers

Store the leftover mussels in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Make sure to include some of the broth to keep them moist.
When ready to reheat, place the mussels and broth in a large saucepan or skillet.
Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. Be careful not to overcook the mussels as they can become rubbery.
If the broth has thickened too much, add a splash of fish stock or white wine to thin it out.
Once the mussels are heated through, remove from heat and serve immediately.
Alternatively, you can reheat the mussels in the microwave. Place them in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Always check the temperature to ensure the mussels are heated evenly and thoroughly.
Serve the reheated mussels with a fresh sprinkle of parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice for added freshness.

Random Fact About This Recipe

A random fact about this creamy mussels recipe is that mussels are a great source of protein, iron, and omega-3 fatty acids. They are also considered a sustainable seafood choice, as they are farmed in an environmentally friendly manner.

Is This Recipe Economical for Home Cooking?

The creamy mussels recipe is relatively cost-effective, especially if you have access to fresh mussels at a reasonable price. The main expenses are the mussels and heavy cream, while the other ingredients like onion, garlic, carrot, and fish stock are generally inexpensive. For a household of 4, the approximate cost would be around $20-$25 USD. Overall Verdict: 8/10.

Healthy or Unhealthy?

This creamy mussels recipe is a delightful blend of flavors, but let's dive into its health profile. Mussels are a fantastic source of lean protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential minerals like iron and zinc. The use of fresh vegetables like onion, garlic, and carrot adds a touch of fiber and vitamins. However, the recipe does have some elements that could be improved for a healthier twist.

The inclusion of heavy cream significantly increases the saturated fat content, which might not be ideal for heart health. Additionally, the fish stock and wine can add a considerable amount of sodium and calories.

Swap heavy cream with a lighter alternative like half-and-half or a plant-based cream (e.g., coconut cream or cashew cream).
Reduce the amount of wine and fish stock, and replace some of it with low-sodium vegetable broth.
Add more vegetables like diced tomatoes, spinach, or bell peppers to increase fiber and nutrient content.
Use whole grain bread or a side salad instead of traditional bread to serve with the mussels.
Limit the amount of added salt, relying more on herbs and spices for flavor enhancement.

By making these adjustments, you can enjoy a delicious and healthier version of this creamy mussels recipe.

Editor's Thoughts

This creamy mussels recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The combination of fish stock and dry white wine creates a rich, aromatic base, while the addition of heavy cream adds a luxurious, velvety finish. The use of fresh mussels ensures a briny, oceanic taste that pairs beautifully with the subtle sweetness of the carrots and the aromatic notes from the onion and garlic. The simplicity of the preparation allows the natural flavors of the mussels to shine through, making this dish both elegant and comforting. A truly refined yet approachable seafood dish.

Enhance Your Creamy Mussels Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Bread: Garlic Bread: Imagine the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your kitchen, each slice generously brushed with garlic butter and a sprinkle of parsley. This crispy, golden delight is the perfect companion to soak up every last drop of the creamy broth from your mussels.

Roasted Asparagus: Roasted Asparagus: Picture tender asparagus spears, lightly drizzled with olive oil and a hint of lemon, roasted to perfection. The slight char and vibrant green color make it a visually stunning and deliciously healthy sidekick to your main course.

Caesar Salad: Caesar Salad: Envision a crisp romaine salad, tossed with a creamy Caesar dressing, crunchy croutons, and a generous shaving of Parmesan cheese. This classic salad adds a refreshing crunch and a burst of flavor that complements the rich mussels beautifully.

Herb-Roasted Potatoes: Herb-Roasted Potatoes: Think of golden potatoes, roasted with a medley of fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme, and a touch of garlic. These crispy, flavorful bites are a hearty and satisfying addition to your seafood feast.

Lemon Sorbet: Lemon Sorbet: Visualize a refreshing lemon sorbet, served in a chilled bowl. This light and zesty dessert cleanses the palate and provides a delightful contrast to the creamy richness of the mussels, leaving you with a perfectly balanced dining experience.

Other Alternative Recipes

Garlic Butter Shrimp: Dive into a plate of succulent shrimp sautéed in a rich garlic and butter sauce. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fancy weekend treat. Serve it over a bed of pasta or with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Clam Chowder: Warm up with a bowl of creamy clam chowder. This classic soup is loaded with tender clams, potatoes, and a savory broth that's thickened with cream. Perfect for a cozy night in or as a starter for a seafood feast.

Seafood Paella: Transport yourself to the coasts of Spain with a vibrant seafood paella. This dish features a medley of mussels, shrimp, and calamari cooked with saffron-infused rice and a mix of colorful vegetables. It's a showstopper for any dinner party.

Lemon Herb Grilled Salmon: Enjoy a healthy and flavorful meal with lemon herb grilled salmon. The salmon fillets are marinated in a zesty lemon and herb mixture, then grilled to perfection. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.

Crab Cakes: Indulge in crispy, golden crab cakes that are packed with sweet crab meat and a blend of spices. These cakes are perfect as an appetizer or a main course, served with a tangy remoulade sauce and a side of coleslaw.

Suggested Appetizers and Desserts

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with these stuffed mushrooms. Start by selecting large, firm mushrooms and remove their stems. Create a savory filling using breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, and finely chopped garlic. Add a touch of olive oil and fresh herbs like parsley and thyme. Spoon the mixture into the mushroom caps and bake until golden brown. These bite-sized delights are perfect for any gathering.

Shrimp Cocktail: Elevate your appetizer game with a classic shrimp cocktail. Begin by poaching large shrimp in a flavorful broth infused with lemon, bay leaves, and peppercorns. Once cooked, chill the shrimp in an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Serve the shrimp with a tangy cocktail sauce made from ketchup, horseradish, lemon juice, and a dash of hot sauce. Arrange the shrimp on a platter with a bowl of the sauce in the center for a stunning presentation.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in the richness of Chocolate Lava Cake. Imagine a decadent molten center that flows out as you cut into it, creating a luxurious experience with every bite. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the intense chocolate flavor. A sprinkle of powdered sugar and a few fresh berries add a touch of elegance and color to this irresistible dessert.

Lemon Meringue Pie: Delight in the tangy and sweet flavors of Lemon Meringue Pie. This classic dessert features a buttery crust filled with zesty lemon curd, topped with a cloud of fluffy meringue. The contrast between the tart lemon and the sweet meringue creates a harmonious balance that is sure to please your palate. Serve it chilled for a refreshing end to your meal, and garnish with lemon zest or mint leaves for an extra touch of sophistication.

Why trust this Creamy Mussels Recipe:

This recipe combines the natural brininess of fresh mussels with the richness of heavy cream, creating a luxurious dish. The use of fish stock and dry white wine enhances the depth of flavor, while the aromatic blend of onion, garlic, and bay leaf ensures a fragrant and well-rounded broth. Each step is designed to maximize taste and texture, making it a trusted choice for seafood lovers.

Share your thoughts and experiences with the Creamy Mussels Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section.

FAQ:

Can I use frozen mussels instead of fresh ones?

Yes, you can use frozen mussels, but fresh mussels will give you the best flavor and texture. If using frozen, make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess water before cooking.

What type of dry white wine should I use?

A good rule of thumb is to use a wine that you would enjoy drinking. Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or Chardonnay are all great choices for this recipe.

How do I know if the mussels are cooked properly?

The mussels are done when they open up. This usually takes about 5 minutes of cooking over high heat. Discard any mussels that do not open, as they may not be safe to eat.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

It's best to make this dish fresh, as mussels can become rubbery if reheated. However, you can prepare the broth ahead of time and reheat it before adding the mussels.

What can I serve with creamy mussels?

Crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious broth. You can also serve it with a side of steamed vegetables or a light salad to complement the rich flavors.