Chilli & Garlic Mussels

1kg fresh mussels, cleaned and debearded
3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
2 bird’s eye chillies, finely chopped
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, finely chopped
2-3 tablespoons vegetable oil
Small handful coriander leaves, for garnish

The Sauce
1 teaspoon chilli bean paste
1 tablespoon light soy sauce
½ teaspoon dark soy sauce

To Finish
2 tablespoons Shaoxing rice wine
3-4 tablespoons chicken stock or water

PREPARATION

1. Rinse the mussels thoroughly under cold running water several times, removing any beards or grit. Discard any mussels that remain open after tapping.

COOKING

1. Heat a wok over medium-high heat with vegetable oil until shimmering.
2. Add the chopped garlic, ginger and chilli and stir fry briefly until fragrant but not burnt.
3. Increase the heat to high and add the cleaned mussels directly into the wok.
4. Pour in the chilli bean paste, light soy sauce and dark soy sauce, tossing quickly so the sauce coats the shells.
5. Add the Shaoxing rice wine and chicken stock, then bring everything to a vigorous boil.
6. Cover the wok with a lid and allow the mussels to steam for about 2 minutes until they open.
7. Remove the lid and toss the mussels through the sauce so the aromatics coat them evenly.
8. Continue cooking briefly until the liquid reduces slightly and the sauce clings lightly to the shells.
9. Discard any mussels that have not opened.
10. Scatter fresh coriander over the top and give the wok one final toss.
11. Serve immediately while hot with crusty bread or steamed rice to soak up the sauce.

School of Wok Tips

• Always cook shellfish on high heat so they open quickly and stay tender.
• Do not overcook mussels or they will become tough and rubbery.
• Mussels release their own natural stock, which enriches the sauce as they cook.
• Discard any unopened mussels after cooking as they may not be safe to eat.

FAQs

How do I know if mussels are fresh?
Fresh mussels should be tightly closed or close when tapped and should smell clean and ocean fresh.

Can I use clams instead of mussels?
Yes. This same recipe works beautifully with clams or other shellfish.

What should I serve with chilli garlic mussels?
They are great with steamed rice or crusty bread to soak up the rich seafood sauce.