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Creamy Coconut Curry Mussels

creamy coconut curry mussels - featured image

A quick and flavorful dish featuring fresh mussels steamed in a silky, slightly spicy coconut curry sauce with hints of lemongrass and lime.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds fresh mussels, cleaned and debearded
  • 1 can (13.5 oz / 400 ml) full-fat coconut milk
  • 1 tablespoon curry powder (mild to medium blend)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 stalk lemongrass, bruised and chopped (optional)
  • 2 small shallots, finely chopped
  • 1 small red chili, sliced (optional)
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • A handful fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fish sauce or soy sauce (use tamari for gluten-free)
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or coconut oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Clean the mussels by rinsing under cold water, scrubbing shells with a brush, and removing the beard. Discard any cracked or open mussels after tapping.
  2. Heat oil in a large deep skillet over medium heat. Add shallots, garlic, ginger, red chili (if using), and lemongrass (if using). Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
  3. Add curry powder and stir for 1 minute to toast the spices gently.
  4. Pour in coconut milk, stir to combine, and bring to a gentle simmer. Add fish sauce or soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes to thicken and meld flavors.
  5. Increase heat to medium-high, add mussels, cover with lid, and steam for 5-7 minutes until mussels open. Discard any unopened shells. Squeeze lime juice over mussels and toss gently.
  6. Serve immediately garnished with chopped cilantro.

Notes

Discard any mussels that do not open after cooking to avoid unpleasant surprises. Toast curry powder with aromatics to unlock flavor. If sauce is too thick, add a splash of broth or water. Serve with crusty bread or jasmine rice. Sauce can be made ahead and reheated gently before adding mussels.

Nutrition

Keywords: mussels, coconut curry, seafood, quick dinner, easy recipe, coconut milk, curry powder, shellfish, weeknight meal