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Thai Steamed Mussels

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Thai Steamed Mussels combine the briny taste of fresh mussels with a fragrant, creamy coconut milk broth infused with red curry paste, lime, and fresh herbs. Ready in just 25 minutes, this quick and easy seafood dish is perfect as an appetizer or a main course with jasmine rice.

Ingredients

For the Broth:

  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
  • 2 tablespoons red Thai curry paste
  • 1 can (14 ounces) full-fat coconut milk
  • 1 tablespoon fish sauce
  • 1 teaspoon brown sugar
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh Thai basil leaves, chopped
  • 12 Thai red chilies, sliced (optional, for extra heat)

For the Mussels:

  • 2 pounds fresh mussels, cleaned and debearded
  • 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro leaves, chopped (for garnish)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh Thai basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)
  • Lime wedges (for serving)

Instructions

  • Prepare the Broth:

    • Heat coconut oil in a large pot over medium heat.
    • Sauté the chopped onion until translucent (about 3-4 minutes).
    • Stir in garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
    • Add the red curry paste and cook for 1 minute, stirring well.
    • Pour in the coconut milk, fish sauce, and brown sugar, stirring to combine.
    • Add lime juice, chopped cilantro, Thai basil, and red chilies (if using). Simmer for 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
  • Steam the Mussels:

    • Add the cleaned mussels to the pot, gently stirring to coat them in the broth.
    • Cover and steam over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, until the mussels open.
    • Discard any mussels that remain closed.
  • Serve:

    • Ladle mussels and broth into bowls.
    • Garnish with extra chopped cilantro and Thai basil.
    • Serve with lime wedges on the side.

Notes

  • Spice Level: Adjust by adding more or fewer Thai red chilies.
  • Herbs: If Thai basil is unavailable, substitute with regular basil or mint.
  • Add-ins: Try adding sliced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra texture