How To Clean Mussels

Learn how to properly clean, wash, and store mussels with this simple step-by-step guide!

3.67 from 6 votes

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 0

Total Time 15

Course Cooking Skill

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 390 kcal

Dump the entire bag of mussels into a bucket or sink of fresh cold water. Tap water is fine as long as it is COLD!
Swish the mussels around with your hands to dislodge any debris or dirt that may be clinging to the shells. You may be surprised how dirty the water gets!
Start picking out the mussels all the while checking to make sure the shells are closed. If you come across a mussel with an open shell, tap it on the counter or edge of the bucket and see if it closes.
Place the washed live mussels in a clean container which can be stored in the fridge or a bowl if you plan on cooking right away.
As you are picking the washed mussels out of the water, de-beard any mussels that still have the bristles attached. Simply grab a hold of the beard and yank it of. Heads up! It can be quite stubborn and tough to remove!

Storing Washed Mussels

If just purchased, the mussels can be kept in their mesh bags until you plan on washing them. This keeps them contained, and they wont accidentally spill. Place the mesh bag in a suitably sized bowl, and cover the bowl with a soaking wet kitchen towel or newspaper. This keeps the mussels wet, and as cold as possible.
If you just washed and picked the mussels and plan on storing them for a day, place the loose washed mussels in a bowl, and again cover with a soaking wet cloth or newspaper. Keep in mind the mussels need to be quickly re-washed right before cooking.

Calories: 390kcal

Nutrition info is auto-generated. This information is an estimate; if you are on a special diet, please use your own calculations.

Keyword how to wash mussels

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