A delightful and easy-to-make dish featuring mussels steamed in beer with a flavorful herb butter sauce.
Clean the mussels thoroughly under cold water, discarding any that remain open after tapping.
Ensure the mussels are fresh and alive; this is crucial for both flavor and safety.
Heat a large sauté pan over medium heat and melt the butter. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened.
Cook the onions and garlic slowly to release their natural sweetness.
Sprinkle in the red pepper flakes and stir to combine.
Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your spice preference.
Pour in the beer and bring to a simmer.
Choose a beer with a flavor profile that complements seafood, like a lager or ale.
Add the mussels to the pan, cover, and cook for 5-7 minutes until they open.
Discard any mussels that do not open during cooking.
Sprinkle the chopped parsley over the mussels and give everything a gentle stir.
Adding the parsley at the end preserves its fresh flavor and vibrant color.
Serve the mussels hot with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth.
Toast the bread with a drizzle of olive oil for an extra touch of flavor.
