Name: Moules-Frites with Herbed Mayo
Prep time: 40 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs fresh mussels, cleaned and debearded; 2 tbsp olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 shallot, finely chopped; 1 cup dry white wine; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 2 tbsp unsalted butter; 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, plus more for garnish; 1 lb frozen thin French fries; 1/2 cup good-quality mayonnaise; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tsp Dijon mustard; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; Salt and pepper, to taste; Pinch of chili flakes (optional)

Moules-Frites with Herbed Mayo

Peter

This classic Belgian-inspired Moules-Frites recipe brings together plump, briny mussels steamed in a fragrant white wine and garlic broth, topped with golden, crispy fries and a dollop of zesty herbed mayo. The interplay of savory shellfish, rich sauce, and crunchy potatoes is pure comfort with a sophisticated twist. Perfect for a California evening, this dish transforms a simple bowl of mussels into a decadent meal, ideal for sharing with friends and best enjoyed with a crisp beverage. The herbed mayo adds a creamy finish that ties the flavors together beautifully.

Ingredients

Instructions

Preheat oven and bake French fries according to package instructions until golden and crisp. Season lightly with salt.
While fries cook, heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or deep pot over medium heat. Add garlic and shallot, sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 2 minutes.
Add mussels to the pot and pour in white wine and chicken broth. Cover tightly and steam for 5-7 minutes, shaking the pot occasionally, until mussels open. Discard any that do not open.
Stir in butter and chopped parsley, then season the broth with salt and pepper to taste.
In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, and a pinch of chili flakes. Adjust seasoning if desired.
Divide mussels and broth between two wide bowls. Pile hot fries directly over the mussels.
Top fries with a generous spoonful of herbed mayo and garnish with extra parsley.
Serve immediately with a spoon and fork for the ultimate mussels and fries experience.