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Mussels and Fries with Mustard Mayonnaise

Although there’s no substitute for enjoying a pot of freshly steamed mussels on the coast of France, this 30-minute supper is a pretty good substitute. The briny flavor and deep garlic aroma of stewed mussels are surprisingly simple to recreate. Crunchy french fries (whether frozen or homemade) and a mellow mustard mayonnaise round out this classic meal. Served with crusty bread, these mussels can create an intimate weekend dinner or an easy weekday escape.

Recipe information

  • Yield

    Makes 2 servings

Ingredients

1 (15- to 16-ounce) package frozen french fries
1 small onion
2 garlic cloves, forced through a press
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 teaspoons dry mustard
2 teaspoons water
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 cup dry white wine
2 pounds cultivated mussels, rinsed
2 tablespoons chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
Crusty bread, preferably a baguette
Special equipment: Mandoline

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Cook the fries according to package instructions and keep warm in the oven if necessary.

    Step 2

    Meanwhile, cut the onion into very thin slices with the slicer, then cook with garlic and a pinch of salt in the butter in a wide heavy medium pot over medium-high heat, covered, stirring occasionally, until pale golden.

    Step 3

    While the onion cooks, whisk together the mustard and water until smooth, then whisk in the mayonnaise and about 1/4 teaspoon pepper.

    Step 4

    Add the wine to the onion and briskly simmer, covered, stirring occasionally, until the onion is almost tender, about 5 minutes. Add the mussels and cook, covered, stirring occasionally, until mussels are just open wide, 4 to 6 minutes, checking frequently after 4 minutes and transferring as cooked to a bowl. (Discard any mussels that remain unopened.)

    Step 5

    Stir the parsley into the cooking liquid and season with salt. Pour liquid over mussels, then serve with fries and mustard mayonnaise.

  2. COOK’S NOTE

    Step 6

    This RECIPE can be doubled in an 8-quart heavy pot.

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