Delicious Mussels Recipe with White Wine and Bacon
Are you looking for a dish that is quick, easy, and packed with flavor? Look no further than this recipe for mussels with bacon and white wine. This dish is perfect for both entertaining guests or enjoying a cozy night in with loved ones. The combination of fresh mussels, crispy bacon, and savory white wine will leave your taste buds singing.
Mussels are one of my favorite types of seafood because they are a sustainable source of protein that is also delicious. Plus, they are incredibly versatile and can be cooked in many different ways. By steaming the mussels in white wine, we create a delicious broth that is infused with the flavors of garlic, shallots, and fresh herbs like thyme and parsley.
But it isn’t just the broth that makes this recipe shine. The addition of rich and salty bacon adds a new level of depth to the dish. When combined with the creamy white wine sauce, this dish becomes truly irresistible.
In this article, I will guide you through all the steps necessary to make this delectable dish at home. From prepping the ingredients to cooking the mussels to serving suggestions, I will provide you with all the knowledge necessary to make this recipe a success. So join me as we delve into the world of mussels with bacon and white wine – your taste buds won’t regret it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Are you looking for a dish that’s perfect for your next family dinner or gathering? Look no further than this amazing recipe for mussels with bacon and white wine! No matter what the occasion, these flavorful and delicious mussels are guaranteed to please even the most discerning palates.
One of the best things about this recipe is the way it combines classic flavors in a truly unique way. The smoky, salty flavor of bacon pairs perfectly with the briny sweetness of fresh mussels, while the smooth, creamy sauce made with garlic and white wine ties it all together. Every bite is a delight!
But that’s not all. This recipe is also incredibly versatile, making it perfect for any number of occasions. Whether you’re looking to impress dinner guests or just want a fancy meal at home, these mussels will fit the bill perfectly.
So what are you waiting for? Try this amazing recipe today and discover just how delicious mussels can be!
Ingredient List
Here are the ingredients you will need to make Mussels with Bacon and White Wine recipe:
- 2 pounds mussels
- 8 slices thick-cut bacon, diced
- 1 medium shallot, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
- 1 cup dry white wine, such as Pinot Grigio
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 1/2 cup chopped tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chopped flat-leaf parsley
The Recipe How-To
Now that we know the ingredients for this mouthwatering dish, let’s move on to the recipe how-to section. Trust me, this is where the magic happens.
Step 1: Clean Mussels
Start by cleaning the mussels thoroughly under cold running water. Discard any that are open and do not close when tapped lightly. Scrub their shells using a brush to remove any dirt or debris. Drain the mussels and set aside.
Step 2: Cook Bacon
Cut 8 slices of thick-cut bacon into small pieces and cook them in a large pan over medium heat until they’re crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon from the pan, setting it aside while keeping the fat in the pan.
Step 3: Cook Shallots and Garlic
Add 1 diced shallot and 4 minced garlic cloves to the same pan and sauté until they’re soft and fragrant.
Step 4: Add White Wine and Butter
Deglaze the pan with 2 cups of dry white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon. Then add 1/2 cup of butter, stirring until it has melted.
Step 5: Steam Mussels
Add cleaned mussels to the wine sauce, cover with a lid and steam them for 2-3 minutes, shaking the pan occasionally. The mussels are ready when their shells have opened up.
Step 6: Serve with Bacon and Parsley
Divide mussels among serving bowls, spoon over some wine sauce, then top with cooked bacon pieces and freshly chopped flat-leaf parsley. Serve immediately with some crusty bread on the side for dipping into that delicious sauce.
That was it! Now you have an idea on how to cook this classic Steamed Mussels with Bacon and White Wine dish with the recipe how-to section. Impress your guests with this amazing dish at your next dinner party or enjoy it with your loved one for a romantic night in.
Substitutions and Variations
For this recipe, you can try substituting the bacon for smoked salmon or pancetta for a different flavor. If you prefer a vegetarian option, omit the bacon and add sliced mushrooms for a meaty texture.
Additionally, you can experiment with the wine used in this recipe. Instead of using Pinot Grigio, you can try a Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc for a more citrusy taste.
To make this recipe even spicier, add some red pepper flakes or chopped jalapenos to the garlic butter sauce. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some crumbled blue cheese to the wine garlic butter sauce for an extra kick of flavor.
For those who are allergic to seafood, you can substitute mussels with other types of seafood like clams or shrimp. Additionally, if fresh mussels are not available in your area, you can use frozen mussels instead.
With these substitution and variation options, you can create your own unique take on the classic Mussels with Bacon and White Wine recipe.
Serving and Pairing
Serve these succulent steamed mussels with bacon and white wine hot and fresh out of the bowl with some crusty bread to soak up all of the delicious juices. They are best enjoyed with a glass of Pinot Grigio or any dry white wine. The wine’s acidity will perfectly complement the dish’s richness, enhancing the sweetness of the mussels and the savory flavor of bacon.
The dish is versatile enough to go well with many sides. Roasted vegetables or garlic bread can take this dish to another level. You could also serve it with a green salad that has crispy flat leaf parsley for an added crunch. This pairing will make you want for more.
If you’re feeling more adventurous, try serving these mussels with a blue cheese dip as this adds a punchy flavor that perfectly contrasts sweet mussels.
This dish is perfect for a casual family dinner or other special occasions like date nights among others. Its simple recipe makes it easy to prepare in large quantities, making it perfect for parties or gatherings.
The perfect balance between seafood, smoky bacon, and creamy white wine makes these steamed mussels a favorite seafood comfort food that everyone loves!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
This dish is best served immediately after preparing, but if you find yourself with leftovers, there are options for storing and reheating.
If you know ahead of time that you won’t be serving all the mussels, you can remove them from the shells and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 1-2 days. When reheating, place them in a saucepan over medium heat with some extra wine or broth to help steam them back to life. The bacon and white wine sauce will also still taste great when reheated.
It is not recommended to freeze this dish as it may cause the mussels to become rubbery and lose their texture.
If you have any extra sauce or broth, it can be stored in a separate container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. When reheating, pour it into a small saucepan over low heat until it comes to a simmer. Be sure to stir frequently and do not let it boil.
Overall, this dish is best enjoyed right away, but with proper storage and reheating, you can still indulge in its deliciousness even after the first serving.
Tips for Perfect Results
Cooking mussels can seem overwhelming, but with a few tips, it can be a breeze. Here are some tips to make the best steamed mussels with bacon and white wine recipe.
1. Clean the Mussels
Ensure you buy fresh mussels from the store, and if possible, have them clean it for you. However, cleaning them is still essential before cooking. Scrub the shells under cold running water and remove any beards or debris.
2. Use Fresh Ingredients
There is no substitute for fresh ingredients when it comes to this recipe. Ensure that your ingredients are fresh and of good quality—use fresh garlic cloves, bacon, shallots apple to get the most flavor out of these ingredients.
3. Cook Bacon First
Cook the bacon first before adding other ingredients like garlic and shallots in the same pan so that flavors mingle as each ingredient is added.
4. Don’t Overcook
If overcooked, mussels will become rubbery and tough. Take care not to overcook your mussels; they’ll cook quickly in about 2-3 minutes under medium heat on the stovetop. Any longer than that might ruin the dish’s delicate flavors.
5. Pair With Good Wine
The right wine pairing is crucial to unlock all the flavors of this dish; Pinot Grigio or any dry white wine would go well with this meal. A glass of wine would also help balance out the saltiness of the bacon.
6. Add Blue Cheese
For an extra flavor twist, add blue cheese crumbles to the wine-garlic butter sauce or swap out some of the cream for blue cheese in the sauce for an unforgettable taste experience.
By following these simple tips on your next attempt at making steamed mussels with bacon and white wine, you’re sure to impress everyone seated at your table with a flavorful and dainty meal!
FAQ
Before we wrap up this recipe, I want to acknowledge some of the most commonly asked questions about making Mussels with Bacon and White Wine. Getting answers to these frequently asked questions can help you better understand the process and give you confidence when cooking this dish. Let’s dive into some of the FAQs that many people have when it comes to making this recipe.
What white wine is best with mussels?
When looking to pair your delectable mussels, consider serving them with a crisp dry white wine. A Pinot Grigio or other Italian white would make for a classic pairing, especially if the mussels are topped with garlic and breadcrumbs. However, you may also want to consider matching them with an unoaked Chardonnay or a fruity Sauvignon Blanc, such as Sauvignon de Touraine. These options can all enhance the flavors of your seafood dish and provide a satisfying sensory experience.
What wine is best to cook with mussels?
When you are looking for the perfect wine to steam your mussels, Italian Pinot Grigio is the ideal choice. This white wine has a dry and refreshing taste with subtle undertones of smoke and minerals, as well as neutral hints of apple, pear and peach.
What alcohol is best with mussels?
When it comes to pairing wine with mussels, the ideal choice is a crisp and lively wine with a zesty acidity. As an alternative to Muscadet, Chilean Sauvignon Blanc or a dry Alsatian Riesling are excellent options that offer a similar level of freshness and vibrancy. These wines enhance the flavors of the mussels and create a striking balance to the briny and savory notes of the seafood.
Bottom Line
Now that you know how to make this delicious recipe, it’s time to get cooking with mussels, bacon, and white wine. I highly recommend this dish for seafood and wine lovers like myself. The combination of the salty bacon, garlic, and tender mussels with a splash of white wine creates a symphony of flavors that is impossible to resist.
With the right ingredients and some simple steps, you’ll be able to make a restaurant-worthy dish in the comfort of your own kitchen. Don’t be surprised if friends and family start asking for the recipe after they taste this delectable dish.
So go ahead and give this recipe a try. You won’t regret it. And who knows? It may just become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Happy cooking!
Mussels With Bacon and White Wine Recipe
Ingredients
- 3 lbs mussels, scrubbed
- 1 cup white wine
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 2 shallots, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 8 slices bacon, chopped
- 2 large tomatoes, deseeded and chopped
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons chopped flat leaf parsley
Instructions
- Clean the mussels and discard any that don’t close when sharply tapped.
- Place the mussels in a large saucepan and cover with the wine. Cook for 3–4 minutes, shaking the pan once or twice, until the mussels are open. Transfer them to a bowl and discard any that do not open. Strain the cooking liquid into a separate bowl to remove any grit or impurities and set this and the mussels aside.
- Melt half the butter in a pan over a low heat and add the shallots and garlic.
- Add the bacon, increase the heat to medium and cook for a few minutes until the bacon is crisp.
- Now add the tomatoes and cook until softened.
- Mash the flour and the remaining butter in a bowl, then add this mixture to the pan, piece by piece. At the same time, slowly add the mussel cooking liquid. If you find that the sauce is too thick, add a little water to loosen the mixture.
- Reheat the mussels in the sauce, then sprinkle with the parsley. Serve immediately with some crusty bread.
Add Your Own Notes
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