Mussel Soup

Mussel Soup
  • Author: James Martin

This delectable recipe for creamy mussel soup is a delightful combination of fresh mussels, aromatic fennel, and a splash of aniseed liqueur. The mussels are cooked in a flavorful broth infused with saffron, then blended to create a luscious and creamy texture. Serve this soup alongside freshly toasted garlic bread for a comforting and satisfying meal that is sure to impress.

— Constant Cookbook

Ingredients

  • 1 kg/2lb 3oz fresh mussels
  • 200ml/7fl oz white wine
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 shallot
  • 1 garlic
  • 1 fennel
  • pinch saffron
  • 50ml/2fl oz aniseed liqueur
  • 300ml/10½fl oz fish stock
  • 100ml/3½fl oz double cream
  • 2 tsp coriander cress
  • 1 loaf white bread
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 garlic

Instructions

  • Clean the mussels by thoroughly scrubbing them under plenty of running water, pulling away and discarding the 'beards', the seaweed-like stringy threads. Discard any broken mussels, and any mussels that don't close tightly when you tap them.
  • Place the mussels in a saucepan, add the white wine and cook for 3-4 minutes.
  • Drain, reserving the cooking liquor, and pick the mussels from their shells. Set aside the liquor and the mussels, but discard the shells.
  • Heat a large frying pan and add the oil. Add the finely chopped shallot, garlic and fennel and cook for 3-4 minutes.
  • Add the saffron, aniseed liqueur, stock, three-quarters of the mussel meat, finish with the cream
  • Cook for a further 3-4 minutes until warmed through, then blend with a stick blender until smooth.
  • Heat a large griddle pan and drizzle the sliced bread with oil and rub with the halved clove of garlic. Toast the bread on the griddle for 2-3 minutes.

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Cook Time

30M

Prep Time

PT30M

Yield

Serves 4