Step 1

Soak mussels in cold salt water (3 cups + ¼ cup salt) for about 15 minutes. Discard open mussels, scrub the shells, de-beard, and rinse until the water runs clear.

Step 2

In a large pot, heat oil over medium-high heat. Cook shallots and red chili peppers for 30 seconds. Cook garlic, for 30 seconds, cook tomato paste and sugar for 1 minute. Cook dried basil and thyme for 1 minute. Keep stirring.

Step 3

Add diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil, lower the heat to medium-low and simmer, uncovered, for 15-20 minutes or until slightly thickened.

Step 4

Increase the heat to high. Add dry white wine, butter, and saffron. Give it a quick stir then add the cleaned mussels into the pot. Cover the pan, cook for about 6 minutes or until the mussels have opened.