Description
A quick and easy Japanese dinner recipe featuring fresh mussels steamed in a flavorful garlic miso broth, perfect for a cozy and elegant meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 pounds (900g) fresh mussels, cleaned
- 4 large cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons white miso paste
- 1/4 cup (60ml) dry sake (or dry white wine)
- 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 stalks green onions, thinly sliced
- 2 cups (475ml) water or seafood stock
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon neutral oil (vegetable or canola) for sautéing
Instructions
- Rinse mussels under cold water, scrubbing shells to remove dirt or barnacles. Remove the beard by pulling firmly. Soak mussels in cold water for 10 minutes to expel sand. Drain and set aside.
- Heat 1 tablespoon neutral oil in a large deep skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and grated ginger, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until soft and fragrant but not browned.
- Pour in sake and water (or seafood stock) and bring to a gentle simmer. In a small bowl, whisk miso paste with a couple tablespoons of hot broth until smooth, then stir into the pan. Add soy sauce and sesame oil, stirring gently to combine.
- Add cleaned mussels to the pan and cover with a lid. Steam for 6-8 minutes, shaking the pan occasionally. Discard any mussels that do not open.
- Sprinkle sliced green onions over the mussels, give a final gentle stir, and remove from heat. Serve immediately with crusty bread or steamed rice.
Notes
Do not rush steaming the mussels; wait until shells open fully. Whisk miso paste with hot broth before adding to avoid clumps. Use moderate heat to prevent broth evaporation. Reserve broth by straining for a silky finish if desired. Experiment with garnishes like shichimi togarashi or chili oil. Avoid overcooking mussels to prevent rubbery texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Japanese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1/4 of
- Calories: 220
- Fat: 7
- Carbohydrates: 8
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 25
Keywords: mussels, garlic miso broth, Japanese dinner, seafood, quick recipe, easy dinner, umami, miso paste, healthy seafood