Fried Mussels

Fried mussels are a seafood appetizer full of flavor, perfect for those who appreciate seafood with an unexpected crunchiness.

Ingredients

• 1 kg of fresh mussels
• 100 g of flour
• 2 eggs
• Breadcrumbs as needed
• Oil for frying
• Salt
• Lemon for serving
• (optional) Chili powder

Preparation

1. Clean the mussels by removing the encrustations and the byssus, the fibrous “beard” that protrudes from the closing of the shell. Rinse under cold running water.

2. Place the mussels in a large pan without water, cover with a lid, and cook until they open. It will take about 5 minutes. Drain from the cooking water and allow to cool. Remove one of the shells from each mussel, leaving the mollusk attached only to one shell.

3. Prepare three separate bowls: put the flour in the first, beat the eggs with a pinch of salt and, if you wish, a pinch of chili powder, in the second, and the breadcrumbs in the third.

4. Coat each mussel first in the flour, then the beaten egg, and finally the breadcrumbs, making sure it is completely covered.

5. Heat the oil in a large pan and fry the breaded mussels a few at a time until they are golden and crispy. Drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil.

6. Immediately serve the fried mussels, accompanied with lemon wedges.

Note: The mussels must be fresh and cleaned thoroughly. When cooking, be careful not to overcook them before frying; they should just open and remain soft.

Fun Facts

Mussels are an inexpensive food but are rich in nutrients such as iron, protein, and omega-3s. Fried, they are a richer treat compared to the classic steamed version, but offer a pleasurable variety for the palate.