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Chorizo and Mussels Recipe

A rich, garlicky mussels recipe simmered with smoky chorizo, white wine, cherry tomatoes, and a touch of cream and harissa, served with baguette for dipping.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Appetizer
Cuisine Spanish
Servings 4 servings

Equipment

  • Large pot or Dutch oven
  • Slotted spoon

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/2 pound chorizo sliced or crumbled
  • 2 large shallots finely chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup non-oak Sauvignon blanc white wine
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tablespoon harissa lemon paste
  • 1/2 tablespoon harissa seasoning
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional for extra heat
  • 1/2 pint cherry tomatoes halved
  • 2 pounds fresh mussels cleaned and debearded
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped plus extra for garnish
  • Himalayan salt to taste or regular salt
  • Wild Madagascar peppercorn or regular black pepper freshly ground to taste
  • Lemon wedges for serving
  • Baguette bread for dipping

Instructions
 

  • Rinse the mussels under cold water, scrubbing the shells and removing any beards. Discard any that are open and do not close when tapped.
  • Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chorizo and cook until it starts to brown and release its oils, about 5 minutes. Remove the chorizo with a slotted spoon and set aside.
  • In the same pot, add unsalted butter, chopped shallots and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add in harissa paste and seasoning and cook until fragrant.
  • Pour in the white wine and chicken broth, add diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  • Add the mussels to the pot and stir to coat them with the sauce. Cover the pot with a lid and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the mussels have opened. Discard any mussels that do not open.
  • Return the cooked chorizo to the pot and stir in heavy cream to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Sprinkle fresh parsley in and give it a final stir.
  • Serve the mussels with lemon wedges on the side and baguette bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Keyword chorizo, chorizo and mussels, mussels recipe, seafood appetizer