Cozze Gratinate
Gratinated Mussels
A classic Pugliese appetizer featuring fresh mussels baked with a savory breadcrumb topping until golden and crispy. This dish highlights the simple, fresh flavors of Southern Italian cuisine.
🧂 Ingredients
- 24 Large fresh mussels(Ensure they are live and smell of the sea. Scrubbed and debearded.)
- 100 g Panko breadcrumbs(Panko provides a superior crispness, but regular dried breadcrumbs can be used.)
- 3 tbsp Fresh parsley(Finely chopped.)
- 2 cloves Garlic(Minced very finely or grated.)
- 4 tbsp Extra virgin olive oil(Plus extra for drizzling.)
- 30 g Pecorino Romano cheese(Finely grated. Parmesan can be substituted.)
- 60 ml Dry white wine(Optional, for steaming mussels.)
- 4 Lemon wedges(For serving.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the mussels: Scrub the mussels under cold running water to remove any dirt or barnacles. Pull out the 'beard' (the fibrous thread) from each mussel. Discard any mussels that are open and do not close when tapped, or those with cracked shells, as they are not fresh.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 2
Steam the mussels: In a large pot, heat the white wine (if using) or a splash of water over medium-high heat. Add the prepared mussels, cover tightly, and steam for 3-5 minutes, or until the mussels just begin to open. Shake the pot occasionally. Discard any mussels that remain tightly closed after steaming. Carefully remove the top shell from each opened mussel, leaving the mussel attached to the bottom shell.
⏱️ 5-7 minutes - 3
Make the gratin topping: In a medium bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, finely chopped parsley, minced garlic, grated Pecorino Romano cheese, and 4 tablespoons of olive oil. Mix well until the breadcrumbs are evenly moistened. Season with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 4
Assemble the dish: Arrange the cleaned, single-shelled mussels on a sturdy baking sheet (you can line it with parchment paper for easier cleanup). Spoon a generous amount of the breadcrumb mixture onto each mussel, pressing gently to adhere. Drizzle a tiny bit more olive oil over the topping if it seems dry.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 5
Bake and broil: Preheat your oven's broiler to high, or preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Place the baking sheet with the mussels under the broiler or in the oven. Broil or bake for 5-8 minutes, watching very carefully, until the breadcrumb topping is golden brown and crispy, and the mussels are heated through. The goal is a crisp topping, not overcooked mussels.
⏱️ 5-8 minutes - 6
Serve immediately: Carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. Serve the Cozze Gratinate hot, garnished with fresh lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the mussels.
⏱️ 1 minute
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For the best texture, use fresh panko breadcrumbs or lightly toast homemade breadcrumbs before mixing.
- ✓Avoid over-seasoning the topping, as the mussels have a natural briny flavor.
- ✓Always keep a close eye on the mussels when broiling, as the topping can burn quickly.
- ✓Ensure mussels are properly cleaned and debearded before cooking to avoid gritty texture.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a tablespoon of tomato paste to the breadcrumb mixture for a hint of tomato flavor.
- Incorporate finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes or capers into the topping.
- Experiment with different herbs like oregano or basil in the breadcrumb mix.