Steamed Mussels in a Tomato Sauce

Fresh mussels steamed in tomato sauce is a fresh, fragrant way of enjoying these shellfish. Fresh mussels are readily available and are easy to prepare.

INGREDIENTS

4 strips bacon, chopped
1/2 small white onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, sliced
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup white wine (optional)
700ml marinara sauce
1kg mussels, scrubbed, debearded, rinsed and drained

PREPARATION

Add chopped bacon to a large, deep skillet over medium-low heat. Cook bacon until it renders out fat and starts to get crispy, 5 to 6 minutes. Then add onion, garlic, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper, and cook until onions soften and become translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes.

Cook for another minute or two to soften the garlic and combine flavours. Then pour in the wine to de-glaze the pan—this will release any stuck bits on the pan and help combine flavours. Cook for a minute and then pour in marinara sauce and stir. Bring the mixture to a simmer, turn heat down to low and simmer, partially covered, for 5 minutes.

Remove the lid and add all the mussels. Cover and shake the skillet gently. Cook mussels for 4 to 5 minutes, until they open. Discard any that do not open.

Serve with crusty bread.

Original recipe at simplyrecipes.com