These mussels in a Thai style broth are the ultimate in simple, healthy fast food. And if you’re visiting the coast on holiday, you should be able to source some straight-from-the-sea fresh ones!
When I’d planned this recipe for mussels in a Thai style broth a week or two back, I had fully intended to pop down to the beach and collect the mussels myself. However with all the crazy weather Cornwall has been hit with lately, I cheated and bought a bag from my fishmonger instead.
Mind you, they’re so cheap to buy, that I don’t feel all that bad.
I love how decadent & grown up a big steaming bowl of fresh mussels look and they make the perfect quick lunch when you have friends round (although as they seem to divide more people than Marmite, so do check with said friends beforehand whether they are fans or not!)
How to Clean a Mussel
First up, give the shell a tap with the back of a knife. Within a couple of seconds the shell should clamp shut by a very disgruntled resident. If it doesn’t, it means the mussel is dead and you need to bin that one.
On the opposite side of the hinge, you’ll often find what looks like a fuzzy piece of seaweed sticking out of the shell. This is known as the beard, and you need to pull that away before they go in the pot. Often times it’s easier to use the blade of blunt knife and your thumb to yank the beard out, but be warned, as soon as that shell closes, it closes tight.
Lastly, give each shell a good scrub under running water washing to remove any sand or silt and you’re good to go.
- 1 kilo super fresh mussels
- 2 spring onions sliced
- 1 red chilli sliced
- 275 ml of hot chicken or vegetable stock
- 150 ml coconut milk
- 1 teaspoon fish sauce
- In a large saucepan bring the stock to boiling point, then add the mussels. Pop the lid on the pan, turn the heat down and let them cook for 2 minutes, shaking the pan as they cook.
- Add the other ingredients, giving the mussels a quick stir and let cook for 1 more minute before dishing up the mussels into bowls and pouring the stock over them.
- Serve with a chunk of baguette to mop up the juices
Glamorous Glutton says
This looks really yummy. Such a shame I can’t eat shellfish any more. I love it but have developed an allergy so I watch Mr Glam with envy every time he tucks in. Perhaps I’ll be kind and cook this for him. GG xx
Jane Sarchet says
Oh no, that’s awful. You have a stronger will than me if you could cook it and not eat it! Poor Jonny doesn’t get anything with melted cheese any more purely cos I can’t eat it :)
Janie x
Kay says
Hi, I love your blog and have just started following it. A friend recommended your blog and suggested I have a look at your egg recipes because my 2 hens are still laying like crazy and I needed some ideas to use up the glut that I seem to be accumulating. I live in Cornwall too, a few miles outside Liskeard and I love reading blogs that are local to me. I can’t wait to try some of the egg recipes :-)
Kay
Jane Sarchet says
Hi Kay, sounds like we’re practically neighbours! Those eggs sure do creep up on you if you’re not careful! I hope you find some new family favourite eggy recipes :)
Janie x
Karen says
I am a huge moules lover Janie and these look divine Darlink!
Jane Sarchet says
Cheers Karen, they are tasty little beggars aren’t they!
Janie x
Nick @ Bakingbeardy says
Love mussels! When I was living in Ireland, I used to gather them off the beach at Donegal – I miss that so much. So jealous of you!
Jane Sarchet says
Next time you’re in Cornwall I’ll take you to a beach to gather your fill :)
Janie x
Louisa Foti says
I’m a tad boring with my mussels normally, just a simple white wine and tarragon or parsley sauce, maybe a dash of cream. Loving the Thai flavours in your broth though, I’d happily plough through an enormous bowl of these any day. Thanks so much for linking up to Four Seasons Food #SomethingFishy event.
Jane Sarchet says
Thanks Louisa, they are seriously tasty!
Janie x