Mussel, Green

Common Name:

New Zealand green mussel, greenshell, greenlipped mussel

Product Information:

Green mussels are sweet, tender, delicate, plump and juicy. Meat color varies from apricot (female) to cream (male). The color has no effect on flavor. Greenshells are most commonly available individually quick frozen in the whole or half shell to lock in flavor.Because they are grown on ropes suspended above the seabed, they rarely contain grit or sand. Unlike the blue mussel, the greenshell mussel’s shell is slightly open in its natural state, which New Zealanders refer to as “smiling.” The shell closes tightly when the mussel is subjected to stress, freshwater or rough handling.

Cooking Tips:

Since frozen halfshells are already partially cooked, you can add a topping of your choice before “final-touch” broiling or baking. Cooking from frozen at high heat gives the best results. Live green mussels require only a little steam or heat to open 1/4 inch. After that, add a vinaigrette dressing and enjoy. Also excellent heated in Italian sauces and served with pasta. Meats are good whole or chopped in casseroles, chowders and salads, or minced in terrines, patés and quiches.

Cooking Methods: