Julia Child’s Mussels Mariniere

Step 1

Scrub each mussel and rinse well. Pull the beard off the mussel and place all cleaned mussels in a bowl filled with cold water. When all mussels are cleaned, sprinkle flour and toss gently.

Step 2

In a pot, bring the butter, shallots, wine, herbs and salt and pepper to a boil. Allow to reduce slightly (about 4-5 minutes).

Step 3

Use your hands to remove the mussels from the floury water and rinse them well in a colander. Don't pour the mussels into the colander because the collected sand could pour right back on them.

Step 4

Add the mussels and close lid on the pot. Allow to cook for about 5 minutes or until the mussels all open up. If there are any closed mussels, discard those.

Step 5

Serve the mussels in wide bowls. Use a ladle to spoon mussels in bowls first, then use the ladle to pour wine sauce over the mussels. Garnish with chopped parsley and crusty French bread.