Friday, October 20, 2017

PAN-ROASTED MUSSELS- NORMANDY STYLE




Found this in a local tourist magazine while camping in Rhode Island.  The Kalberers liked it, I’ll have to make it again so Ronnie who was sick at the time can try it.

6 oz. smoked slab bacon (I used Applewood) cut into 1/2” cubes

2 Tbls butter

2 small shallots, sliced into thin rings

2 cloves garlic, peeled and thinly sliced

1 McIntosh apple, peeled and cut into ½” cubes

Sea Salt and freshly ground pepper

3 lbs (about 35-40) mussels, scrubbed, beards removed

2 springs fresh rosemary

5 whole sprigs thyme, plus more for garnish

1 bay leaf

3 Tbls Calvados (apple brandy)

½ cup apple cider

1 cup heavy cream

1-2 French baguettes or your favorite crusty bread



Add bacon to a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed stockpot set over medium heat and let cook 5-6 minutes. Once the fat is rendered and bacon is turning golden drain the excess fat; add butter, shallots, garlic and apple. Season with salt and pepper and continue to stir an additional 4-5 minutes.

To the same pot, add cleaned mussels and fresh herbs. Season again with salt and pepper. Cook mussels for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Add brandy, cider and cream to pot scraping up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pot; bring contents to a light boil. Reduce heat, cover and allow to simmer until all the mussels have opened. Check seasoning again before serving.

Ladle into bowls, top with broth and garnish with thyme  OR  just gather around the big pot and everyone shares. Serve with lots of warm crusty bread. Serves 6.

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