Spicy Coconut Lemongrass Mussels

15 mins Prep Time

10 mins Cook Time

Written By

Vicky Tran

Mussels have got to be one of the lowest investment recipes in terms of time and money, but with the highest ROI's in flavour and satisfaction. There are so many ways that you can dress these ocean bivalves up using different aromatics, sauces and fresh herbs, but this spicy coconut lemongrass one is always a hit. The mussels' natural salty brininess is balanced with sweet coconut milk, soft spice from the chili, tart lime juice, aromatic lemongrass, and a generous hit of fresh cilantro. Don't forget copious amounts of your favourite crusty bread on the side to mop up all of that delicious broth!

Ingredients

Spicy Coconut Lemongrass Mussels

3 pounds fresh mussels
2 stalks fresh lemongrass, pounded and cut into 2 inch pieces
2 pieces shallots, peeled and thinly sliced
2 stalks scallions, sliced
1 red finger chili, sliced
1 handful fresh cilantro, rough chopped
1 lime, cut into halves
1/2 cup coconut milk
1/2 cup white wine
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
2 portions crusty bread, toasted

Directions

Spicy Coconut Lemongrass Mussels

7 Steps

Step 1

Clean the mussels: Soak in ice-cold water and use your fingers to pull and remove the “beards”, scrub the exterior with a clean dish scrubbie. Discard any mussels that have cracked shells or are open. Set aside cleaned mussels over a strainer.
Step 2

Start with a cold pan, add in the olive oil and the lemongrass. Turn the heat up to high and when the lemongrass begins to sizzle, cook for 30 to 45 seconds, stirring often.
Step 3

Add in the butter, sliced shallots and sliced chilies, cook for 30 seconds.
Step 4

Deglaze with white wine and cook until the wine has reduced by half, approximately 1-2 minutes on high heat.
Step 5

Add in the coconut milk and cook until it has reduced by half, approximately 1-2 minutes on high heat.
Step 6

Add in the cleaned mussels and mix to combine, bring to a boil and cover with a tight fitting lid. Allow to cook covered on high heat for 2-3 minutes until all the mussels have opened.
Step 7

To finish, add in the sliced scallions and chopped cilantro, as well as a good squeeze of freshlime juice. Serve alongside crusty toasted bread for dipping.