Buzara Style Mussels (Montenegrin Style)
A classic Adriatic seafood preparation, mussels are cooked in a flavorful broth of white wine, garlic, tomatoes, and herbs. This version emphasizes fresh, local ingredients typical of Montenegrin coastal cuisine.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg Fresh mussels(cleaned and debearded)
- 3 tbsp Olive oil
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 medium Shallots or red onion(finely chopped)
- 400 g Canned crushed tomatoes
- 200 ml Dry white wine
- 1/2 cup Fresh parsley(chopped)
- 1/4 cup Fresh basil(chopped (optional))
- 1/4 tsp Red pepper flakes(or to taste)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- for serving Crusty bread
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Thoroughly clean the mussels under cold running water. Discard any that are open and do not close when tapped, or any with broken shells.
💡 Tip: Scrub the shells and remove the 'beard' (byssus threads). - 2
Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped shallots (or onion) and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- 3
Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- 4
Pour in the white wine and bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Let it simmer for 2 minutes to allow the alcohol to evaporate.
- 5
Add the crushed tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Stir well and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
- 6
Add the cleaned mussels to the pot. Cover tightly and cook for 5-8 minutes, or until all the mussels have opened. Shake the pot occasionally.
💡 Tip: Discard any mussels that remain closed after cooking. - 7
Stir in the chopped fresh parsley and basil (if using) just before serving.
- 8
Serve immediately in bowls, spooning the flavorful broth over the mussels. Accompany with plenty of crusty bread for dipping.
💡 Tip: The broth is as important as the mussels themselves!
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Use the freshest mussels possible for the best flavor.
- ✓Don't overcook the mussels, as they can become tough.
- ✓Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your spice preference.
🔄 Variations
- Add a splash of lemon juice at the end for brightness.
- Include a few clams or shrimp along with the mussels.
- For a richer sauce, add a tablespoon of butter at the end.