Cozze alla Busara – Italian Mussels in a Savory Broth
Category: Appetizer
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Mussels (Cozze) | 1 kg |
| Fresh Parsley (Prezzemolo) | 1 bunch |
| Garlic (Aglio) | 2 cloves |
| Dry White Wine (Vino bianco) | 50g (about 3 tbsp) |
| Bread Crumbs (Pangrattato) | 40g (about ¼ cup) |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil (Olio extravergine d’oliva) | As needed |
| Black Pepper (Pepe nero) | To taste |
Instructions:
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Prepare the Mussels: Begin by thoroughly cleaning the mussels. Rinse them under cold running water to remove any debris or sand. Discard any mussels that remain open after tapping them gently, as these may not be fresh.
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Cook the Garlic: Peel and finely slice the garlic. In a large saucepan or deep skillet, heat a generous drizzle of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic slices to the pan and sauté them until golden and fragrant, but be careful not to burn them.
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Add the Mussels: Once the garlic is lightly golden, add the cleaned mussels to the pan. Immediately pour in the dry white wine and cover the pan with a lid to help the mussels steam. Let them cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until all the mussels have opened. Discard any mussels that do not open during cooking.
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Season the Mussels: Remove the garlic cloves from the pan and discard them. Also, take out any large parsley stems, leaving behind the tender leaves. Season the mussels with freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Stir to combine.
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Finish the Dish: Turn off the heat and stir in the finely chopped parsley. Add the bread crumbs, mixing gently to ensure the crumbs coat the mussels evenly. The breadcrumbs will absorb the flavorful juices, giving the dish a slight crunch and added richness.
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Serve: Transfer the mussels to serving dishes and serve immediately, making sure to drizzle the pan juices over the top. Enjoy with a slice of crusty bread for dipping, if desired.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~210 kcal |
| Protein | 18g |
| Carbohydrates | 10g |
| Fat | 12g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 500mg |
Tips & Variations:
- Wine Substitute: If you don’t have white wine, a splash of vegetable broth or a non-alcoholic wine can work as a substitute to keep the dish flavorful.
- Herb Variations: For a different flavor profile, try adding a bit of thyme or oregano along with the parsley for added aromatic depth.
- Spicy Twist: For a spicy variation, sprinkle some red chili flakes along with the black pepper to give the dish a bit of heat.
Perfect Pairing: Serve these mussels with a chilled glass of dry white wine, like Pinot Grigio, for a refreshing contrast to the savory dish. This appetizer pairs beautifully with a light salad or a side of grilled vegetables.
About Cozze alla Busara:
Originating from the coastal regions of Italy, especially in the Trieste area, Cozze alla Busara is a beloved seafood dish that combines the fresh flavors of mussels with aromatic garlic, wine, and breadcrumbs. The “Busara” style is a traditional Italian preparation that uses simple yet vibrant ingredients to enhance the natural taste of the mussels, making it a perfect dish to start any meal or serve at a festive gathering.
