Belgian Grilled Mussels with Garlic Butter

Introduction

Grilling mussels over an open fire brings out a smoky depth of flavor that perfectly complements the rich, garlicky butter sauce. Cooking them on the Arteflame grill ensures even heat and perfect caramelization, making this a must-try dish for any seafood lover.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs fresh mussels, cleaned and debearded
• 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
• 1/4 cup dry white wine
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lemon wedges for garnish
• Baguette slices for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them inside the grill.
2. Stack firewood over the napkins.
3. Light the paper napkins and allow the fire to build for about 20 minutes until the grill is ready for cooking.

Step 2: Prepare the garlic butter sauce

1. Place the butter on the flat cooktop, letting it melt gently.
2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
3. Add the chopped parsley and crushed red pepper flakes.
4. Deglaze with white wine and let it reduce slightly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Grill the mussels

1. Place the cleaned mussels directly on the flat cooktop in a single layer.
2. Let them cook until they open, about 3–5 minutes.
3. Discard any mussels that do not open.

Step 4: Coat the mussels with garlic butter

1. Once the mussels have opened, drizzle them generously with the garlic butter sauce.
2. Let them cook for another 1–2 minutes, allowing the flavors to infuse.

Step 5: Serve

1. Transfer the mussels to a serving platter.
2. Garnish with lemon wedges.
3. Serve with toasted baguette slices for soaking up the delicious sauce.

Tips

• If using farmed mussels, they may not need much cleaning, but always rinse them thoroughly.
• Use fresh garlic for the best flavor.
• Make sure the mussels are in a single layer so they cook evenly.

Variations

1. Belgian Beer Infused: Substitute the white wine with a rich Belgian beer to enhance the depth of flavor.
2. Spicy Cajun: Add 1 tsp of Cajun seasoning for a bold, spicy kick.
3. Lemon Herb: Increase the amount of lemon juice and add fresh thyme for a zesty variation.
4. Asian Fusion: Add 1 tbsp of soy sauce and ginger to the butter sauce for an umami-packed profile.
5. Tomato Basil: Stir in some diced fresh tomatoes and basil for a Mediterranean twist.

Conclusion

Belgian Grilled Mussels with Garlic Butter are an incredibly easy and flavorful dish to make on the Arteflame grill. Whether you enjoy them as a main dish or an appetizer, they are sure to impress every seafood lover. Pair them with a crisp white wine or a classic Belgian beer for the ultimate experience.

Best Pairings

• A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a classic Belgian Witbier
• Grilled asparagus or charred Brussels sprouts
• Crusty baguette or rustic sourdough bread