Savoring the Flavors of New Zealand’s Seafood
New Zealand is renowned for its exceptional seafood, and for good reason. From succulent fish and chips to the famous Bluff oysters, paired perfectly with a glass of Oyster Bay Chardonnay, the country offers a culinary experience like no other. One of the standout stars of New Zealand’s seafood scene is the humble green-lipped mussel.
A Recipe Fit for Royalty
These massive mussels, often as large as the palm of your hand, boast tender, juicy flesh that’s simply irresistible. To bring out their natural sweetness, cooking them in white wine is the way to go. Inspired by traditional Greek cuisine, this recipe is a masterclass in simplicity and flavor.
Brunch or Dinner, This Dish Delivers
Whether you’re serving it up for a leisurely brunch or as an appetizer for dinner, this dish is sure to impress. With a yield of two servings and a total cooking time of just 12 minutes, it’s an easy win for any meal.
Gather Your Ingredients
- 12 fresh green-lipped mussels
- 2 sprigs of fresh thyme
- Half an onion, diced
- 1 cup of whole peeled tomatoes
- 3 cloves of garlic, crushed
- 1 cup of crumbled feta cheese
- Chopped parsley for garnish
A Simple yet Elegant Preparation
- Prepare the Mussels: Scrub the mussels clean, removing any beards or baby crabs from inside.
- Steam Open: Steam the mussels in 2 cups of white wine until they open. Strain and set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Cook the diced onion and crushed garlic until transparent, then add the whole peeled tomatoes, salt, pepper, sugar, and thyme.
- Assemble and Grill: Arrange the steamed mussels on a tray or baking dish, drizzle with the sauce, and sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese. Grill for 5-7 minutes, or until the mussels are slightly browned and bubbling.
- Serve and Enjoy: Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve immediately.
This recipe is a love letter to New Zealand’s incredible seafood, and the perfect way to experience the flavors of this beautiful country. So go ahead, give it a try, and taste the magic for yourself!
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