Let’s start with the basics. Mussels are a type of shellfish found in both freshwater and saltwater environments. They’re a popular ingredient in many cuisines around the world, especially in Mediterranean countries like Italy. When cooked properly, mussels are tender and flavorful, with a slightly briny taste that pairs well with a variety of sauces and seasonings.
At Bano Carrisi, the mussels are served in a rich tomato sauce that’s been simmered for hours to develop deep, complex flavors. The sauce is made with San Marzano tomatoes, a type of plum tomato grown in the volcanic soil near Mount Vesuvius. San Marzano tomatoes are prized for their sweetness and low acidity, which make them ideal for making sauces.
To prepare the mussels, they’re first scrubbed and cleaned to remove any dirt or debris. Then they’re steamed in a large pot with white wine, garlic, and parsley until they open up and release their briny juice. The steamed mussels are then added to the tomato sauce and left to simmer for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
The result is a bowl of tender, plump mussels bathed in a rich, flavorful sauce that’s perfect for soaking up with a slice of crusty bread. The sauce is slightly spicy, thanks to the addition of red pepper flakes, and has a nice sweetness from the San Marzano tomatoes. The mussels themselves are cooked just right, tender and juicy with a slight chew.
Of course, any good seafood dish needs the right wine pairing, and Bano Carrisi has plenty of options to choose from. Their wine list features a range of local and regional wines, as well as international options. If you’re in the mood for a white wine, try a crisp, refreshing Falanghina or a full-bodied Chardonnay. For red wine lovers, a medium-bodied Primitivo or a rich, complex Nero di Troia would be a great match.
Beyond the mussels, Bano Carrisi has plenty of other delicious dishes to try. Their menu features a range of traditional Puglian dishes, like orecchiette pasta with broccoli rabe and sausage, baked eggplant Parmigiana, and grilled octopus with potatoes and olives. And if you’re feeling indulgent, don’t miss the dessert menu, which includes classics like tiramisu and panna cotta, as well as more creative options like almond and lemon cake and strawberry sorbet.
So if you’re a seafood fan, make sure to add Bano Carrisi to your dining bucket list. With its fresh, flavorful mussels and other traditional dishes, this restaurant is a must-visit for foodies in Puglia. And who knows, you might just discover your new favorite wine pairing while you’re there.