Drunken Mussels

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.
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