Imagine succulent, smoky mussels, their shells glistening with a rich, savory peanut sauce, punctuated by the sweet bite of caramelized onions. This isn't your average seafood dish; it's a vibrant explosion of flavors that will transport your taste buds straight to the bustling streets of Vietnam. These grilled mussels, marinated in a blend of fragrant herbs and spices, offer a delightful contrast of textures – tender, juicy meat nestled within slightly charred shells. The creamy peanut sauce, a masterpiece of sweet, salty, and tangy notes, perfectly complements the briny mussels.
This incredibly easy recipe requires minimal ingredients and cooking time, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a sophisticated yet simple appetizer. Ready to elevate your seafood game? Let's dive into the step-by-step process to create this unforgettable Vietnamese Grilled Mussels with Onion & Peanut Sauce.
Tools Needed
- Bowls
- Baking tray
- Foil
Ingredients
- Mussels
- Cold water
- Salt
- Green onions
- Oil
- Deep-fried shallots: 1/4 cup
- Crushed salted roasted peanuts: 1/4 cup
- Garlic
- Ginger
- Olive oil
- Cooking wine
- Butter
- Flour
- Hoisin sauce
- Lemon juice
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Mussels
- Combine cold water and salt. Add mussels and soak for 1 hour. Scrub and wash any mussels that aren't tightly closed.
- Remove beards. Soak in salt water for one more hour. Rinse and drain well.
Step 2. Cook the Mussels and Sauce
- Chop the green onion; separate white and green parts into separate bowls.
- Heat oil until it smokes. Pour onto the onions.
- Mix garlic and finely ground ginger.
- Heat olive oil and sauté garlic until fragrant. Add white parts of green onions and sauté until lightly browned.
- Add ginger, cooking wine, and mussels. Cover and cook for 5 minutes, or until mussels open.
- Remove mussels. Continue cooking the sauce until reduced to about 2/3 its original volume.
- Add butter and flour; stir well to dissolve. Let the sauce boil for 1 minute. Add hoisin sauce and stir well.
Step 3. Bake and Finish the Dish
- Adjust seasoning. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking tray with foil. Discard half the shells.
- Cover each mussel with sauce. Place on the tray and bake for 5 minutes.
Step 4. Serve
- Serve with onion sauce, peanuts, and deep-fried shallots. Squeeze lemon juice over and enjoy!
Read more: Vietnamese Grilled Pork: A Delicious BBQ Recipe
Tips
- Ensure mussels are tightly closed before cooking; discard any that are open or don't close when tapped.
- Don't overcook the mussels; they should open easily.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 400-500
- Fat: 25-35g
- Carbs: 20-30g
- Protein: 25-35g
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen mussels?
Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before grilling to prevent excess moisture.
2. What if I don't have all the herbs listed?
Don't worry! The recipe is adaptable. Use what you have – the core flavors are the peanut sauce and onions. Fresh cilantro is a good substitute if you lack other herbs.
3. How do I know when the mussels are cooked?
The mussels will open when they are cooked. Discard any that remain closed after cooking.
This Vietnamese Grilled Mussels recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy fresh mussels with a unique and flavorful twist. The combination of smoky grilled mussels and the creamy peanut sauce is truly irresistible, perfect for a casual weeknight meal or a special occasion. So gather your ingredients and get ready to impress your friends and family with this delicious and easy-to-make dish!