Moules-Frites
Belgium's beloved national dish, featuring plump mussels steamed in a fragrant broth of white wine, herbs, and aromatics, served alongside perfectly crispy, double-fried French fries (frites).
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 kg Fresh mussels(Ensure they are live and smell of the sea. Scrubbed and de-bearded.)
- 1 kg Russet potatoes(Or other starchy potatoes, peeled and cut into 1cm thick fries.)
- 1.5 liters Vegetable oil or peanut oil(For frying)
- 3 tbsp Unsalted butter
- 1 medium Yellow onion(Finely chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic(Minced)
- 240 ml Dry white wine(Such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio)
- 1/4 cup Fresh parsley(Chopped, plus extra for garnish)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper(Freshly ground)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the Frites: Rinse the cut potatoes under cold water and pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels. This is crucial for crispiness. Heat 1 liter of oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer to 150°C (300°F). Carefully add the potatoes in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for 6-8 minutes until they are softened and lightly blanched, but not yet browned. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Let them cool completely for at least 20 minutes.
⏱️ 30 minutes (including cooling time) - 2
Cook the Mussels: While the frites are cooling, melt the butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Pour in the white wine and bring to a simmer. Add the cleaned mussels to the pot. Cover tightly and increase the heat to medium-high. Steam for 5-7 minutes, shaking the pot occasionally, until the mussels have opened. Discard any mussels that remain closed.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 3
Finish the Frites: Reheat the remaining oil in the pot or deep fryer to 180°C (350°F). Carefully add the blanched frites back into the hot oil in batches. Fry for 3-5 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Season immediately with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 4
Serve: Stir most of the chopped parsley into the steamed mussels and their broth. Ladle the mussels and broth into large, shallow bowls. Garnish with the remaining fresh parsley. Serve immediately with the hot, crispy frites on the side for dipping.
⏱️ 2 minutes
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Always discard any mussels that do not open after cooking, as they are not safe to eat.
- ✓The double-frying technique for the frites is essential for achieving a perfectly crispy exterior and a fluffy interior. Ensure the first fry is at a lower temperature to cook the inside, and the second fry at a higher temperature to crisp the outside.
- ✓For an authentic touch, use an empty mussel shell to scoop up the delicious broth and mussels.
- ✓Ensure your mussels are fresh. They should be tightly closed or close when tapped. If they are open and do not close, discard them.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Moules à la Crème: Stir in 120ml of heavy cream along with the parsley in Step 4 for a richer sauce.
- Moules Provençales: Add 1 can (400g) of diced tomatoes (drained) with the onions and garlic in Step 2, and a pinch of dried herbs like thyme or oregano.
- Spicy Moules: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic in Step 2.