Loch Fyne smoked mussels are a true delicacy, sourced from the pristine waters of Loch Roag on the Isle of Lewis in Scotland. These mussels are grown on ropes, allowing them to develop a unique flavor and texture that sets them apart from other varieties. Loch Fyne Oysters is the first ASC approved mytilus edulis mussel grower in the world, ensuring that you are getting responsibly farmed seafood.
Cooking Loch Fyne Smoked Mussels
Before you can enjoy the delicious taste of Loch Fyne smoked mussels, they require cooking. Here is a simple guide on how to prepare and cook them:
Preparation
Start by removing the mussels from the packaging and rinsing them thoroughly under fresh water. It's important to never store mussels in water. Before cooking, make sure to remove any threadlike fibres (beard) from the shell. Any mussels that do not close before cooking or do not open after cooking should be discarded. It's crucial that the mussels are alive when sold to ensure their freshness and safety.
Cooking Method
One popular serving suggestion is to steam the mussels with shallots and bacon. This dish is quick and easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for a main course. Here's how to make it:
- Finely dice 200g of bacon, 8 shallots, and crush 4 cloves of garlic.
- Fry the bacon, shallots, and garlic together in a little rapeseed oil for one minute.
- Add 2kg of cleaned mussels (in their shells) and some freshly ground black pepper.
- Place a lid on the pan and cook for 5 to 10 minutes until all mussels are opened.
- Sprinkle the dish with finely chopped fresh parsley and serve with crusty bread.
Storage and Nutritional Information
Once you've cooked the Loch Fyne smoked mussels, it's important to store any leftovers properly. Keep them in the refrigerator at a temperature of 2° to 4° C in their original packaging. Avoid freezing them, as it can compromise their taste and texture.
For those conscious about their nutritional intake, Loch Fyne smoked mussels offer a range of health benefits. They are low in fat, with only 0.8g per 100g serving, and contain essential nutrients such as protein. Here is the nutritional information per 100g serving:
| Nutrient | Per 100g | RI for Average Adult | RI% |
|---|---|---|---|
| Energy | 294kj/69kcal | 8400kj/2000kcal | 5% |
| Fat | 0.8g | 70g | 1% |
| Carbohydrate | 2g | 260g | 4% |
| Protein | 8g | 50g | 16% |
| Salt | 3g | 6g | 27% |
Reference intake of an average adult (8400kj / 2000kcal)
RI = % of your daily reference intake
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Loch Fyne smoked mussels sustainable?
Yes, Loch Fyne Oysters is the first ASC approved mytilus edulis mussel grower in the world, ensuring that the mussels are responsibly farmed and sourced.
Where can I buy Loch Fyne smoked mussels?
Loch Fyne smoked mussels are available in more than 100 Waitrose stores. To find your nearest store, you can visit their website.
Can I freeze Loch Fyne smoked mussels?
No, it is not recommended to freeze Loch Fyne smoked mussels as it can affect their taste and texture. It's best to consume them fresh or store any leftovers in the refrigerator.
How long can I store cooked Loch Fyne smoked mussels?
Once cooked, you can store the Loch Fyne smoked mussels in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Make sure to keep them in an airtight container to maintain their freshness.
Enjoy the exquisite taste of Loch Fyne smoked mussels today and experience the flavors of Scotland's larder.
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