In modern supermarkets, the range of seafood is striking in its variety. Therefore, it is not difficult for gourmets to prepare even the most capricious dishes. Today mussels are appreciated not only by chefs for the specific taste of a delicacy, but also by nutritionists and athletes for their unique nutritional qualities, richness in trace elements and low calorie content.
Bivalve molluscs are widespread in the wild. In addition, they are actively cultivated by humans on peculiar farms. Their growth period is 18 months. Before being harvested in artificially created conditions, mussels are kept in clean running water for a month to purify them from substances harmful to humans. Indeed, in nature, these mollusks act as natural filters, and therefore absorb poisons, like a sponge. It is for this reason that mussels harvested in the wild should be eaten little by little and with caution.
Cooking use
In cooking, only tightly closed, undamaged shells are used. After heat treatment, the shells of the mollusk open, and meat entrails are used for food, provided that they smell like the sea, and do not exude a rotten smell. Store-bought frozen pre-cooked mussels should also be checked for unpleasant odors. Before using them, it is recommended only to defrost them at room temperature. Light, tender meat with a sweetish sea flavor is baked on coals, smoked, salted, marinated, stewed in sauces, fried. As a side dish, they are served with cereals, vegetables, pasta. The use of shellfish in cooking is simply limitless: from soups and salads to stews and soufflés. It is worth noting that dishes with mussels are quickly perishable, so they should be eaten fresh, since they cannot be reheated and stored.
Nutritional value of mussels
Mussels are a natural natural vitamin and mineral complex, which includes polyunsaturated fatty amino acids, vitamins E, D, group B, and many minerals. In terms of an incredibly large amount of protein, these mollusks overtake any fish and meat, while having a much lower calorie content.
Useful properties of mussels
- accelerate metabolism;
- remove slags and toxins;
- strengthen the immune system;
- serve as a prophylaxis against arthritis;
- have a beneficial effect on the thyroid gland, thereby strengthening the nervous system;
- improve the condition of the skin;
- slow down the aging process;
- improve blood circulation, lower cholesterol levels, therefore they serve as an excellent prevention of heart attacks, strokes, ischemia and sclerosis;
- extremely useful for male potency and fertility.
Mussel harm
It is not recommended to eat shellfish:
- with individual intolerance;
- in violation of blood clotting.
And since this product in nature is a filter that absorbs harmful substances, that is, mussels are often not worth it in large quantities.
