Mussels in Asian Style
If you’re looking for a quick yet flavorful dish to elevate your lunch or dinner, Mussels in Asian Style is the perfect option. This aromatic dish combines the delicate flavors of mussels with the boldness of Asian seasonings like ginger, garlic, and mint. The addition of turmeric powder, although optional, plays a key role in minimizing the strong smell often associated with shellfish. A simple, easy-to-make recipe that promises a satisfying meal.
Whether served as a side dish or as part of a larger feast, these Asian-style mussels are sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. It pairs wonderfully with stir-fries, rice dishes, or even on its own with a fresh salad.
Mussels in Asian Style Recipe
Cuisine: Asian
Course: Dinner
Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Serving Size: 4 servings
Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Mussels | 800 grams |
| Oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Red Chili Paste | 3 tablespoons |
| Onion Powder | 1 tablespoon |
| Garlic (minced) | 10-12 cloves |
| Ginger (minced) | 2-inch piece |
| Apple Cider Vinegar (or lemon juice) | 1 tablespoon |
| Garlic Powder | 1 tablespoon |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1 tablespoon |
| Mint Leaves (Pudina) | 2 tablespoons, chopped |
| Coriander (Dhania) Leaves | 2 tablespoons, chopped |
| Water | 1/2 cup |
Instructions
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Prep the Mussels: Begin by cleaning the mussels thoroughly. Wash them under cold running water 3 to 4 times, discarding any beards if present. If your mussels are slightly open, that’s fine—simply refrigerate them until ready to cook. They will open further when cooked. If they remain closed, discard them.
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Saute Aromatics: In a large saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced ginger and garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until they release their fragrance and become slightly golden.
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Flavor the Base: Add 2 tablespoons of red chili paste and 1 tablespoon of onion powder to the saucepan. Continue sautéing for another 30 seconds, allowing the spices to bloom in the oil.
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Cook the Mussels: Pour in the water and add the mussels to the pan. Stir gently to combine. Cover the pan and cook over medium-high heat for about 10 minutes. The mussels will start to open as they cook. Discard any mussels that do not open during this time.
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Season the Mussels: Once the mussels have opened, stir the mixture and add the remaining 1 tablespoon of garlic powder, 1 tablespoon of red chili paste, apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), mint leaves, and coriander leaves. Stir to combine, then cover and simmer for an additional 5 minutes over medium heat.
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Add Turmeric: Remove the lid and sprinkle in the turmeric powder. This ingredient helps to reduce the fishy smell and adds a nice golden color to the dish. If you’re not a fan of turmeric or prefer a milder flavor, you can skip this step.
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Final Stir and Serve: Stir everything together to combine well, then remove from heat. Serve the mussels hot as a delicious side dish.
Serving Suggestions
These mussels in Asian style are perfect on their own or paired with dishes such as Hoisin Tofu & Mushroom Stir Fry and Mushroom Fried Rice for a complete weekend meal. You can also enjoy them with a side of steamed jasmine rice or a light salad to balance the bold flavors.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 200-250 kcal |
| Protein | 20-25 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 10-15 grams |
| Fat | 8-10 grams |
| Fiber | 2-3 grams |
| Sodium | 400-500 mg |
This Mussels in Asian Style recipe brings a bold, tangy twist to the classic seafood dish with the use of spices and herbs that are signature to Asian cooking. The quick preparation time and simplicity of the recipe make it a perfect go-to option for any weeknight dinner. Whether you are a seasoned chef or a beginner, you’ll find this recipe easy to follow and incredibly satisfying to eat. Enjoy the bright flavors and fresh ingredients in this one-pan wonder!
