Wild mussels are full of sand and dirt, and a chore to clean. Farm-raised mussels are significantly cleaner and just as flavorful. You should buy 1 to 1 1/2 pounds of mussels per person for a main-course serving.
When it comes time to cook PEI Mussels, follow these simple instructions to serve up delicious classically-steamed mussels.
Heres a simple how-to for steamed PEI Mussels.
- Rinse and stir mussels under cold running fresh water. Mussels naturally open and close their shells when out of water. For any mussels that do not close after rinsing, tap their shells or lightly squeeze them while running under the water again. For any mussel that still does not close, throw it away.
- Place enough liquid in an empty pot to cover the bottom.
- Turn on the element to high.
- Add the mussels to the pot and cover with the lid. Keep temperature to high.
- Cooking will take 5 to 7 minutes depending on the strength of heat, how much liquid you use, and the amount of mussels.
- When the steam is pouring out from under the lid of the pot for 15 seconds, they are done!
- Let rest 1 minute and then tip the contents into a bowl and serve with some fresh crusty bread for dipping in the wonderful broth– its that simple!
How to Cook Mussels
FAQ
How many mussels should I eat per person?
Knowing the proper proportions of mussels to the number of guests you have will ensure a successful event. We suggest 1 to 1¼ pounds per person for a main course or ½ pound per person for an appetizer.
How many people does 1lb of mussels feed?
A serving is generally about 20 mussels (or about one pound, in the shell). This should yield between 3-4 oz. of meat. One pound of mussels can serve one person a meal or two people as an appetizer.
How many mussels per person for a main meal?
Choose the best mussels Allow about 500g per person for a main meal, and half that amount for a starter or for use in pastas or soups.
How many mussels for 6 adults?
If you’re adding mussels to a dish with other seafood or with pasta, then a large handful or two per person will be enough. If mussels are the main part of the recipe as in a bowl of steamed mussels then you’ll need about 500g per person.