Steamed Fresh Mussels with Cider & Chorizo

FreshAIG Quick Facts

• Species: Blue Mussel (Mytilus edulis)
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Diet Types: High-Protein, Low-Carb

Preparation Method: Steam

Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 2 lbs fresh Blue Mussels, scrubbed and debearded
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 lb Spanish chorizo, diced
• 1 large shallot, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup hard apple cider
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Crusty bread for serving

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat.
2. Add the diced chorizo and sauté until crisp and the oils are released, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the shallot and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant.
4. Pour in the hard apple cider and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
5. Add the fresh mussels to the pot. Steaming is a great way to cook clams, mussels, and other bivalves. They cook in their own juices, enhancing the briny flavor that shellfish eaters enjoy about seafood.
6. Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and let the mussels steam for 5 to 7 minutes. When they open they are cooked.
7. Remove the pot from the heat. Throw out any that have not opened after cooking.
8. Stir in the fresh parsley and serve immediately with thick slices of crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth.

Fresh mussels are often a great value from local merchants compared to imported varieties. Elevate your dinners while serving nutritious shellfish to guests while supporting your community and local economy with seafood from FreshAIG.