Drunken Mussels

Posted by Lysander Rothwell October 21, 2023
Drunken Mussels

Background and History:

Drunken Mussels, or “Cozze Ubriache” in Italian, is a beloved seafood dish that originated in the coastal regions of Italy. This dish features fresh mussels cooked in a flavorful broth infused with white wine, herbs, and a hint of spice. The term “drunken” in the name refers to the addition of wine, which imparts a delightful depth of flavor to the mussels. It’s a dish steeped in Mediterranean culinary traditions and is celebrated for its simplicity and taste.

Ingredients:

  • 2 pounds fresh mussels, cleaned and debearded
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup white wine
  • 1/2 cup tomato sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Crusty bread for serving

Serves: 4

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Instructions:

  • In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
  • Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, and sauté until they become translucent and fragrant.
  • Pour in the white wine and allow it to simmer for a few minutes, letting the alcohol evaporate.
  • Stir in the tomato sauce and red pepper flakes, and let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
  • Add the cleaned mussels to the pot, season with salt and black pepper, and cover with a lid.
  • Steam the mussels for about 5-7 minutes or until they open up. Discard any mussels that do not open.
  • Stir in the chopped parsley and serve the mussels in a deep bowl with the flavorful broth.
  • Accompany with crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth.

Nutrition Facts: (Per serving)

  • Calories: 290
  • Total Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 45mg
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 2g
  • Protein: 22g

Notes:

  • Serve with a side of pasta or over a bed of linguine for a heartier meal.
  • Ensure that all mussels are tightly closed before cooking. Discard any that remain open after tapping them.
  • Adjust the level of red pepper flakes to suit your spice preferences.

Allergy Warning:

  • Be cautious of any shellfish allergies among your diners. Adapt the recipe as needed to accommodate any dietary restrictions or allergies.
Lysander Rothwell
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Lysander Rothwell, a passionate Food Enthusiast, shares his culinary adventures and expertise on his website. With a flair for exploring diverse cuisines and flavors, Lysander offers insights, recipes, and tips to inspire fellow food lovers. Through his engaging content, he aims to celebrate the joy of cooking and eating, inviting readers to embark on delightful culinary journeys with him.