Dutch Blue Mussels: A Cleaning and Preparation Guide

Dutch Blue Mussels are esteemed worldwide for their plump, juicy meat and exquisite flavor. Known as some of the finest mussels available, they make a delightful addition to any seafood lover’s table. Here’s a simple guide on how to clean and prepare Dutch Blue Mussels to ensure a delicious and safe cooking experience.

Cleaning Dutch Blue Mussels:

1. Inspect and Discard:

  • Before cleaning, inspect each mussel individually. Discard any mussels with cracked shells, ones that are open and do not close when tapped, or any that feel unusually heavy.

2. Scrub the Shells:

  • Using a stiff brush under cold running water, scrub the shells of the mussels to remove any debris, barnacles, or Pay particular attention to the hinge area where the two shells meet.

3. Remove Beards:

  • Some mussels may have tough, fibrous threads called beards protruding from between the shells. To remove these, grab the beard firmly with your fingers or use a small knife to pull it downward towards the hinge. Pull firmly and quickly to ensure you remove the entire

4. Rinse Thoroughly:

  • Rinse the mussels once more under cold running water to wash away any remaining sand or debris loosened during scrubbing and beard removal. This step helps ensure that your mussels will be clean and grit-free when

Preparation for Cooking:

  • Ingredients Needed:
    • Cleaned Dutch Blue Mussels
    • Cooking liquid (e.g., wine, broth, or water)
    • Aromatics (e.g., garlic, shallots, herbs)
    • Optional: butter, olive oil, or cream for sauce

Cooking Method:

5. Choose Your Recipe: Decide whether you want to steam, boil, or cook the mussels in a

6. Basic Steaming Method:

  • In a large pot, add about 1 inch of your chosen cooking liquid (such as white wine or broth) and any aromatics you desire (garlic, shallots, herbs).
  • Bring the liquid to a boil over medium-high

7. Add Mussels:

  • Once the liquid is boiling, add the cleaned mussels to the
  • Cover the pot with a lid and let the mussels steam for about 5-7 Shake the pot occasionally to distribute the heat evenly.

8. Check for Doneness:

  • After 5-7 minutes, check to see if the mussels have opened wide. Discard any mussels that have not opened after cooking, as they may not be safe to

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Exquisite Dining: Steamed Red King Crab Legs from Japan

When it comes to indulgent seafood dining, few things rival the exquisite taste of Red King Crab legs from Japan. Renowned for their succulent, sweet meat and impressive size, these crab legs are a treat for any seafood enthusiast. Here’s a simple yet spectacular recipe to prepare these delicacies at home using the steaming method, ensuring you enjoy the natural flavors and tender texture of the crab.

Ingredients:

  • Fresh Red King Crab legs from Japan (as many as desired)
  • Water (enough to steam, about 2 inches in the steamer pot)
  • Optional: melted butter, lemon wedges, and fresh parsley for serving

Equipment Needed:

  • Steamer pot or a large pot with a steamer basket
  • Tongs
  • Timer

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Steamer:

  • Fill the steamer pot with about 2 inches of water. Place it over medium-high heat and bring the water to a

2. Arrange the Crab Legs:

  • Using tongs, carefully place the Red King Crab legs in the steamer basket. Arrange them in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded. If necessary, steam the crab legs in batches.

3. Steam the Crab Legs:

  • Once the water is boiling, cover the steamer pot with its lid. Steam the crab legs for approximately 15 minutes per pound of crab. For example, if your crab legs weigh 2 pounds, steam them for about 30

4. Check for Doneness:

  • After the steaming time is up, carefully lift the lid of the steamer pot. The crab shells should have turned bright red, and the meat should be opaque and white, not translucent. Use tongs to gently pull apart a section of the shell to ensure the meat is fully cooked.

5. Serve:

  • Transfer the steamed Red King Crab legs to a serving platter. Serve immediately while
  • Optionally, serve with melted butter, lemon wedges for squeezing, and fresh parsley for garnish. The butter complements the sweet crab meat beautifully, while a squeeze of lemon adds a refreshing zest.

6.Enjoy:

  • Delight in the tender, sweet meat of the Red King Crab legs from Japan. Dip each piece into melted butter or simply enjoy its natural

Why Steaming?

Steaming is an excellent method for cooking Red King Crab legs because it preserves their delicate flavor and ensures the meat remains tender and juicy. Unlike boiling, which can sometimes water down the flavors, steaming allows the crab to cook gently in its own juices and the steam, resulting in a more intense and satisfying taste experience.

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A Touch of Elegance with Regal King Salmon Fillet: A Delicious Recipe for Every Occasion

Regal King Salmon is farmed in pristine, clean rearing environments in New Zealand. These salmon are fed sustainable and nutritious ingredients, ensuring they not only taste exceptional but also contribute to a healthy diet. Carefully and humanely harvested, the salmon farms adhere to best management practices (BMP) guidelines, which guarantee consistency in quality. Packed with Omega 3 fatty acids, vitamins A, B12, and D, Regal King Salmon offers nutritional benefits that complement its outstanding taste.

Recipe: Baked Regal King Salmon with Lemon and Herbs Ingredients:

  • 1 lb Regal King Salmon fillet
  • 1 lemon, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease with olive oil.
  2. Prepare the salmon: Place the Regal King Salmon fillet skin-side down on the baking sheet. Pat dry with paper towels.
  3. Season the salmon: Drizzle olive oil over the salmon fillet. Sprinkle minced garlic, chopped parsley, and chopped dill evenly over the Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Add lemon slices: Arrange lemon slices over the salmon fillet, covering it
  5. Bake the salmon: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a
  6. Serve and enjoy: Once baked, remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve the baked Regal King Salmon fillet hot, garnished with additional fresh herbs if Pair with your favorite sides such as roasted vegetables, steamed rice, or a fresh salad.

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Indulge in Gooey Goodness: Savour Our Irresistible Cheese-filled Snacks!

When it comes to satisfying cravings and delighting taste buds, nothing quite compares to the irresistible allure of cheese. Imagine biting into a perfectly crispy exterior only to discover a molten, gooey center of real cheese goodness. That’s exactly what our latest lineup of snacks promises to deliver: Camembert Bites, Mozzarella Sticks, and Chilli Cheese Nuggets.

Camembert Bites: A Taste of Luxury

 Derived from the finest Camembert cheese, these bite-sized delights offer a sophisticated twist on traditional snacking. Encased in a light, golden breadcrumb coating, each bite releases a creamy burst of Camembert with every indulgent nibble. Ideal for those who appreciate the finer things in life, Camembert Bites are perfect for elevating any gathering or treating yourself to a moment of culinary bliss. https://thefrenchgrocer.com/product/camembert-bites-1kg-pac-frozen

Mozzarella Sticks: Timeless Crunch with a Cheesy Twist

 Who can resist the classic appeal of Mozzarella Sticks? Our version takes this beloved snack to new heights with a generous filling of real mozzarella cheese. Encased in a crispy, seasoned coating, these sticks are not just appetisers—they’re a journey into cheesy perfection. Whether enjoyed on their own or paired with your favorite dipping sauce, Mozzarella Sticks are sure to be a hit at any party or casual get-together. https://thefrenchgrocer.com/product/mozxarella-sticks-1kg-pac-frozen

Chilli Cheese Nuggets: Spicy, Savoury, and Simply Addictive

 For those who crave a little heat with their cheese, our Chilli Cheese Nuggets offer the ideal balance of spice and savoury goodness. Each nugget features a blend of real cheese and just the right amount of chili kick, all wrapped in a crunchy shell. Perfectly bite-sized for easy snacking, these nuggets are a surefire way to add excitement to your appetiser spread or to spice up your snack time routine. https:// thefrenchgrocer.com/product/chili-cheese-nuggets-1kg-pac-frozen

Ready to elevate your snacking experience? Treat yourself and your guests to the cheesy goodness of our Camembert Bites, Mozzarella Sticks, and Chilli Cheese Nuggets. Whether you’re planning a celebration or simply craving a delicious snack, our products are here to satisfy your cheese-loving soul. Discover why our cheese- filled snacks are a must-have for any occasion! But wait, there’s more. Head on down to our new menu listing at https://thefrenchgrocer.com/shop/95-oil-vinegar-and- sauces to discover more good stuff!

Explore the Savoury Delight of Australia Sunrise Dairy’s Shredded Parmesan Cheese

When it comes to adding a burst of flavour to your dishes, few ingredients rival the rich complexity of Parmesan cheese. And for aficionados seeking the pinnacle of this beloved cheese variety, look no further than Australia Sunrise Dairy’s Shredded Parmesan Cheese. Crafted with precision and care, this cheese is left to mature for a significant period, allowing its flavours to deepen and intensify.

What sets Australia Sunrise Dairy’s Parmesan apart is its meticulous aging process. Left to mature for a minimum of 9-12 months, this cheese develops a dense yet crumbly, grainy texture that is a hallmark of traditional Parmesan. This extended aging period allows the flavors to concentrate, resulting in a cheese that boasts a bold, robust character.

One of the most striking features of Sunrise Dairy’s Parmesan is its aroma. From the moment you open the packet, you’re greeted with an enticing scent that hints at the cheese’s depth and complexity. But it’s upon tasting that the true magic unfolds. The cheese’s strong aroma is complemented by a “bitey” and full piquant flavour that dances on the palate, leaving a lasting impression with every bite. Get it here at : https://thefrenchgrocer.com/product/australia-sunrise-dairy-parmesan-shredded-1kg-bag-chilled

Ways to Enjoy Australia Sunrise Dairy’s Shredded Parmesan Cheese

  1. Classic Pasta Dishes: Sprinkle generously over your favourite pasta dishes such as spaghetti carbonara or fettuccine Alfredo for a burst of flavour.
  2. Savory Salads: Toss with fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a delightful salad with a hint of sophistication.
  3. Gourmet Grilled Cheese: Upgrade your grilled cheese sandwich by layering shredded Parmesan between slices of bread along with your favourite cheese for an indulgent twist on a classic.

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Enjoy Culinary Excellence at Home With Thomas Food’s Lamb Rack (8 Ribs)

When it comes to culinary excellence, few meats can rival the succulent, rich flavor of Australian lamb. Renowned for its unparalleled taste, versatility, and natural goodness, Australian lamb has captivated palates worldwide. At the forefront of delivering this gastronomic delight is Thomas Food, a name synonymous with premium quality and unwavering commitment to excellence.

A Tradition of Quality:

Thomas Food has earned a distinguished reputation for consistently delivering premium quality lamb sourced from Australia’s pristine pasturelands. With a keen understanding of consumer preferences and an uncompromising dedication to quality, Thomas Food ensures that families worldwide can savor the finest chilled or frozen lamb products.

Recipe: Herb-Crusted Frenched Lamb Rack

Ingredients:

  • 1 Frenched Lamb Rack (8 Ribs Cap Off) from Thomas Food
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, finely chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, and chopped thyme to create a herb paste.
  3. Season the lamb rack generously with salt and pepper on both
  4. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the lamb rack on all sides until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
  5. Remove the lamb rack from the skillet and brush the herb paste evenly over the surface of the meat.
  6. Transfer the lamb rack to a baking dish and roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes for medium-rare, or until the internal temperature reaches 130°F (54°C) for medium doneness.
  7. Once cooked to your desired level of doneness, remove the lamb rack from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing between the ribs.
  8. Serve the herb-crusted Frenched lamb rack with your favorite sides and enjoy the exquisite flavors of Thomas Food’s premium quality lamb.

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Elevate Your Culinary Experience with Premium Iowa Angus Beef Short Ribs

Introducing our premium Angus beef short ribs, sourced directly from the lush pastures of US Iowa. Bursting with robust beef flavor and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness, these boneless beauties are a culinary delight waiting to be savored.

Whether you’re a grill master looking to impress at your next barbecue or a home chef eager to create a memorable meal, our Angus beef short ribs are the perfect choice.

Versatile and full of flavor, they can be grilled to perfection for a smoky charred exterior and juicy interior, or slow-roasted for a succulent dish that practically falls off the bone.

One of the most divine ways to prepare our Angus beef short ribs is by slow-roasting them to perfection. Here’s a simple yet sensational recipe to get you started:

Ingredients:

  • 4 lbs boneless Angus beef short ribs
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 cup red wine
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 2 sprigs fresh thyme
  • 2 bay leaves

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
  2. Season the beef short ribs generously with salt and
  3. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high Add the short ribs and sear them on all sides until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the ribs from the pot and set aside.
  4. In the same pot, add the chopped onion and Cook until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
  5. Deglaze the pot with the beef broth and red wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
  6. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, thyme sprigs, and bay Return the short ribs to the pot, nestling them into the liquid.
  7. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated Let the short ribs slow- roast for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until fork-tender.
  8. Once done, remove the pot from the oven and discard the thyme sprigs and bay leaves. Serve the beef short ribs hot, with your favorite sides.

Prepare to be amazed as the irresistible aroma of slow-cooked, beefy goodness fills your home. Our premium Angus beef short ribs promise to deliver a dining experience unlike any other, making every occasion feel truly special.

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New Caledonia “Frosted” Vanilla…A Unique Variety!

It’s official. The newest batch of vanilla beans from New Caledonia has been imported and I am delighted to share this good news with all my friends and commercial partners of The French Grocer! As you know, I travel the world frequently in search of good food and ingredients that I can bring to the dining table and this quest has brought me to New Caledonia, birthplace of the mesmerisingly fragrant vanilla. If you are familiar with the variety from Madagascar, you’d be amazed by this batch from New Caledonia because of the terrain’s stunning climate that allows them to grow into one of the world’s most appreciated varieties!

But first, before we get into why this variety is so special, let me walk you through the incredible landscape of New Caledonia. It is a magical paradise where there is abundant sunshine and just the right amount of rainfall all year round. This creates a conducive environment for the cultivation of vanilla especially one where the harvesting process is entirely managed by hand. On this enchanting island thus comes a beautiful variety that top chefs love — or what they call frosted”. You might recognise this variety when you see the French word “grivée”. This is a unique phenomenon that happens during during storage when the humidity level reaches between 45% and 50%. Here, the vanillin comes into contact with the air on the surface of the pods and forms crystallisation, giving the impression that the vanilla beans are frosted!

This is a unique variety boasting aromas of prune, cacao and fruit confit, making it the top choice among celebrated chefs like Guy Martin. Interested to find out more about this intriguing vanilla?

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A Taste of the Sea: Australian Blue Mussels

Australia is known for its diverse and delicious seafood, and one gem that stands out is the Australian Blue Mussel. Harvested from the pristine waters of Mornington, Victoria, these mussels offer a taste of the sea like no other. In this blog, we’ll explore a simple and delightful recipe that allows the natural flavours of these succulent mollusks to shine.

Here’s a simple no-frills recipe that you can immediately try at home to whip up a lovely dish of sweet, succulent mussels:

Ingredients:

  • 1 kg Australian Blue Mussels
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 small onion (finely chopped)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Crusty bread for serving

Instructions:

  1. Prepare Mussels:
    • Rinse and debeard mussels.
  2. Saute Aromatics:
    • Sauté garlic and onions in olive oil until soft.
  3. Cook Mussels:
    • Add mussels and white wine; steam until opened (discard unopened ones).
  4. Add Tomatoes and Season:
    • Stir in cherry tomatoes; season with salt and pepper.
  5. Finish with Parsley:
    • Sprinkle chopped parsley over the mussels.
  6. Serve:
    • Ladle mussels and broth into bowls, serve with crusty bread.
  7. Enjoy Mornington’s Flavors:
    • Indulge in the taste of Australian Blue Mussels from Mornington, Victoria, with this quick and delightful recipe.

Gustavsen Fossen’s Atlantic Pre-Sliced Smoked Salmon: A Culinary Legacy

In the world of smoked salmon, Gustavsen Fossen stands as a beacon of tradition and excellence. With a rich history dating back to 1972, this supplier has seamlessly blended commercial farming with two centuries of fishing and smoking tradition. Today, they continue to produce Atlantic pre-sliced smoked salmon using the time-honored methods that have been passed down through generations.

The Legacy of Gustavsen Fossen: Gustavsen Fossen’s journey began in 1972, leveraging an impressive 200 years of collective knowledge in fishing and smoking. Their commitment to quality is reflected in the fact that they adhere to the old-fashioned way of smoking salmon, creating a product that pays homage to tradition while meeting the demands of modern consumers.

What Sets Gustavsen Fossen Apart:

  1. Heritage in Fishing and Smoking: With roots deeply embedded in both fishing and smoking traditions, Gustavsen Fossen’s expertise sets them apart from others in the industry.
  2. Commercial Farming with a Traditional Touch: By combining commercial farming practices with traditional smoking techniques, they bring a unique and authentic flavor to every slice of Atlantic smoked salmon.
  3. Attention to Quality: Gustavsen Fossen’s commitment to quality ensures that each slice of smoked salmon meets the highest standards, providing a true taste of the Atlantic.

Ways to Enjoy Gustavsen Fossen’s Atlantic Pre-Sliced Smoked Salmon:

  1. Classic Bagel and Lox:
    • Spread cream cheese on a toasted bagel.
    • Layer Gustavsen Fossen’s Atlantic smoked salmon over the cream cheese.
    • Add capers, red onion slices, and a sprig of fresh dill for a classic and satisfying meal.
  2. Smoked Salmon Salad:
    • Toss mixed greens with a light vinaigrette.
    • Top the salad with Gustavsen Fossen’s pre-sliced smoked salmon.
    • Garnish with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and avocado for a refreshing and nutritious salad.
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