Mussels steamed with Cider & Pancetta!

Onwards with the mussel recipes, as the mussels just keep getting better at the moment!

Serves four.

Ingredients

• 1 ½kg Mussels

• Small knob butter

• 140g pancetta

• 2 shallots, finely sliced

• Small bunch thyme, leaves stripped

• glass of cider, about 150 ml

• 2 tbsp crème fraîche (optional)

Method

1. Wash the mussels under plenty of cold, running water. Discard any open ones that won’t close when lightly squeezed.

   
   

2. Heat the butter in a pan large enough to easily fit the mussels, then fry the pancetta for 4 mins, turning occasionally until it starts becoming crisp. Throw in the shallots and thyme leaves, then cook for 1 min until softened. Whack the heat up to maximum and add the mussels to the pan, then pour over the cider. Place the lid on the pan, give it a good shake, then cook the mussels for 5-7 mins, shaking the pan occasionally, until all the mussels have opened. Discard any that haven’t.

   
   

3. Use a slotted spoon to scoop the mussels into bowls and place the pan back on the heat. Bring the juices to the boil and stir in the crème fraîche, if using. Pour the sauce over the mussels. Serve with hunks of crusty bread for mopping up the sauce.

   
   

If you try this recipe, make sure to share your plate and tag us @Fishmongersfr on Instagram!

https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/mussels-steamed-cider-bacon