What You’ll Need
- 2 pounds of fresh mussels
- 3 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup of white wine
- 1 cup of tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon of freshly chopped parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Clean the mussels thoroughly by scrubbing them under cold water, removing any barnacles or beards. Discard any mussels that are already open.
2. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
3. Pour in the white wine and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for a few minutes to allow the alcohol to evaporate.
4. Add the tomato sauce to the pot and stir well to combine all the flavors. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Gently place the cleaned mussels into the pot, making sure they are evenly distributed.
6. Cover the pot with a lid and cook on medium-high heat for about 6-7 minutes, or until all the mussels have opened. Discard any mussels that remain closed.
7. Sprinkle the freshly chopped parsley over the mussels and give them a final toss to coat them with the sauce.
8. Serve the Taranto-style mussels hot with crusty bread or on a bed of linguine pasta for a complete meal.
Tips and Variations
- For an extra kick of flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Replace the white wine with dry white vermouth for a unique twist.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes.
Now that you have the recipe for Taranto-style mussels, it’s time to head to your kitchen and get cooking! This dish is perfect for a cozy night in or for impressing guests at a dinner party. Enjoy the delicate flavors and the satisfaction of creating a delicious seafood masterpiece.