STEAMED MUSSELS PROVENCAL

Steamed Mussels Provencal image

Provided by Pierre Franey

Categories dinner, appetizer, main course

Time 25m

Yield 4 servings

Number Of Ingredients 15

Ingredients

5 pounds fresh mussels
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon finely chopped garlic
1/2 cup finely chopped fennel
1/2 cup finely chopped onions
1 sweet red pepper, cored, seeds removed and finely chopped
1 cup crushed canned tomatoes
1/2 teaspoon saffron threads (optional)
1 teaspoon ground turmeric
1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes, or to taste
1/2 cup dry white wine
4 sprigs fresh thyme, or 2 teaspoons dried
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper to taste
4 tablespoons chopped fresh basil or parsley

Steps:

Scrub the mussels, remove beards and barnacles, and wash in cold water, agitating with the hand; repeat until the water remains clear. Drain well.
Heat oil in a large saucepan or kettle. Add garlic, fennel, onions and sweet red pepper, and cook briefly over medium-high heat until wilted. Do not burn garlic. Stir often.
Add tomatoes, saffron, turmeric, pepper flakes, wine, thyme, bay leaf, salt and pepper. Bring to a boil and simmer 2 minutes.
Add mussels and basil. Cover tightly, and cook over high heat until all mussels are opened, 5 to 6 minutes. Serve immediately with French or crusty Italian bread.

Nutrition Facts : @context http, Calories 646, UnsaturatedFat 15 grams, Carbohydrate 32 grams, Fat 23 grams, Fiber 4 grams, Protein 69 grams, SaturatedFat 4 grams, Sodium 1714 milligrams, Sugar 4 grams, TransFat 0 grams