how to serve and eat mussels

Mussels Etiquette: 4 Basics For Serving And Eating Mussels​

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About this micro-class

Mussels etiquette is the set of rules for appropriately serving and eating mussels on any social occasion.

This micro-class is recommended for waiters and restaurant staff, restaurant guests, and house-party hosts and guests.

1. How to choose the best mussels

What you should know about mussels

Mussels are bivalve mollusks with two shells joined by a hinge. They are known for their sweet and briny flavor and are popular in seafood cuisine worldwide.

Season and availability 

Mussels are typically available year-round, with peak availability in colder months. They are farmed and harvested in various coastal regions, providing consistent availability.

Types of mussels and how to choose the best

Types of mussels:
Common types of mussels include blue mussels, Mediterranean mussels, and New Zealand green-lipped mussels. Each type has unique flavor profiles and characteristics.

Choosing and finding quality mussels:
Look for mussels with tightly closed shells. Avoid mussels with broken or cracked shells or those that remain open after tapping. Purchase from reputable seafood markets or grocery stores with high turnover.

Alternatives to mussels

Alternatives include clams or scallops, which offer similar textures and flavors. However, mussels have a distinct taste and are not commonly substituted for other shellfish.

2. How to serve mussels

How to store mussels

Storing mussels:
Store live mussels in the refrigerator at temperatures between 32°F to 40°F (0°C to 4°C). Keep them in a mesh bag or bowl covered with a damp cloth to maintain moisture. Consume within 1-2 days for optimal freshness.

Storing cooked mussels:
Cooked mussels should be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator and consumed within 1-2 days.

Detecting spoilage:
Spoiled mussels will have a strong, fishy odor or an off-putting smell of ammonia. Discard any mussels with open or broken shells or an unpleasant odor.

How to prepare mussels

Before cooking, scrub mussels under cold running water to remove any debris or sand. Don’t soak mussels in water as it kills them.  Mussels can be steamed, boiled, grilled, or baked with various seasonings and sauces.

Cook mussels thoroughly to avoid food poisoning. Mussels open when they are well-cooked. 

How to serve and present mussels

Serving and presentation:
Mussels are often served as an appetizer or main course, accompanied by crusty bread or fries for soaking up the flavorful broth. They can also be incorporated into pasta dishes, paellas, or seafood stews for a hearty meal.

Serve mussels with the shell slightly open. An individual serving is around 500 grams (1 pound) per person.

Serving occasions:
Mussels are suitable for both casual and formal dining occasions, making them a versatile option for various meals and events.

Meal suitability:
Mussels are commonly served for lunch or dinner.

Optimal serving temperature:
Serve cooked mussels hot or warm, depending on the preparation method. Aim for a serving temperature around 145°F (63°C) to ensure food safety and optimal taste.

Tableware and accompaniments:
Use individual bowls or large platters for serving mussels. Avoid shallow individual plates.

Provide guests with an additional small plate to discard the shells, a small bowl of water and lemon to wash the fingers, and plenty of napkins for handling the shells.

Accompaniments may include sauces like garlic butter, white wine broth, or marinara sauce, along with lemon wedges and fresh herbs.

Mussels dietary restrictions

Mussels are among the most common food allergens. Guests with shellfish allergies or sensitivities should avoid consuming them. Furthermore, mussels are not kosher.

3. How to eat mussels

Food pairings

Mussels pair well with lemon, garlic, onion, tomatoes, and aromatic herbs like parsley and thyme. You can accompany them with garlic bread, french fries, pasta, and rice.

They also complement flavors like chorizo, bacon, and saffron in various dishes. Avoid pairings with fresh meat or dairy products.

Beverage pairings

Crisp white wines, light beers, and sparkling wines complement the briny flavor of mussels.

Popular white wine pairings include Chardonnay, Chablis, Pinot Grigio, or Sauvignon Blanc.

Avoid heavy or overly tannic beverages that may overpower the delicate taste of the shellfish, such as red wines.

The appropriate manners to eat mussels

Eating mussels:
Pick mussels up one at a time with your fingers. Widen the opening of the shell with your fingers or a knife. Use an empty shell or a fork to scoop out the mussel meat from the shell. If mussels are served with a sauce, you can eat them with a spoon.

Discarding parts:
Discard any empty shells or ones with no meat. Avoid consuming mussels that don’t open after cooking as they may be unsafe to eat. Put the empty shells in a spare plate or bowl. If one is not available, discard shells on the side of your plate.

4. Etiquette mistakes when serving or eating mussels

Etiquette mistakes (serving/preparing):
Mistakes include serving mussels with broken shells, overcooking the shellfish, or neglecting to provide appropriate utensils and accompaniments.

Etiquette mistakes (eating):
Avoid slurping loudly or making excessive noise while eating mussels. Practice proper dining etiquette, including polite conversation and respectful behavior at the table.

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