Frequently Asked Questions
What is Provençal Moules Marinières?
It is a classic French seafood dish consisting of mussels steamed in a fragrant broth of olive oil, onion, garlic, tomatoes, and white wine.
How many calories are in this dish?
There are approximately 320 calories per serving.
How many people does this recipe serve?
This recipe serves four people, though it can satisfy two very hungry seafood lovers.
What type of wine is best for the broth?
A dry white wine is recommended to provide the best acidity and flavor for the mussel broth.
How long does it take to cook the mussels?
The mussels take about 3 to 4 minutes to steam until they have opened fully.
Can I use cilantro instead of parsley?
Yes, the recipe allows for either minced parsley or minced cilantro depending on your preference.
What should I serve with these mussels?
It is best served with slices of crusty French bread to soak up the delicious wine and tomato broth.
How much fat is in one serving?
Each serving contains 7g of fat.
What is the protein content of this recipe?
Each serving provides 20g of protein.
How many carbohydrates are in this meal?
There are 28g of carbohydrates per serving.
What size pot do I need to cook 4 lbs of mussels?
A large 8-quart pot is recommended to ensure there is enough room for the mussels to open while steaming.
Is this recipe considered healthy?
Yes, it is tagged as a healthy recipe featuring fresh seafood and lean protein.
How do I know if the mussels are finished cooking?
The mussels are done once they have opened fully; any that remain closed after steaming should be discarded.
How much garlic is required?
The recipe calls for one tablespoon of minced garlic.
Do I need to clean the mussels before starting?
Yes, you should use 4 lbs of cleaned mussels for this recipe.
Can I substitute the canned tomatoes with fresh ones?
While the recipe calls for a 16-ounce can of diced tomatoes, you can use fresh diced tomatoes if preferred.
How long should I sauté the onions and garlic?
Sauté the onions and garlic for approximately 5 minutes until the onion is soft and lightly browned.
What is the first step in the cooking process?
The first step is to heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering.
Is this a quick meal to prepare?
Yes, it is categorized as a quick recipe, making it suitable for a fast weeknight dinner.
What kind of oil should I use?
The recipe specifies using one tablespoon of olive oil.
Is there a specific regional influence for this dish?
Yes, this dish is inspired by the flavors of the French countryside and Provençal cuisine.
How much wine is needed for the sauce?
You will need 1 cup of dry white wine.
What should the heat level be for sautéing?
The onion and garlic should be sautéed over medium heat.
Can I make this dish for a dinner party?
Yes, its gourmet nature makes it perfect for both casual gatherings and cozy dinner parties.
Is there any fiber in this dish?
The specific fiber content is not listed, but the dish includes tomatoes and onions which provide some fiber.
How much onion is needed?
The recipe requires one large, chopped onion.
Do I need to cover the pot?
Yes, you must cover the pot with a lid to steam the mussels properly.
How do I incorporate the parsley or cilantro?
Stir the minced herbs into the pot along with the tomatoes and pepper before adding the wine.
What is the total amount of mussels used?
The recipe uses 4 lbs of mussels.
Can I add pepper to this dish?
Yes, freshly ground pepper should be added to taste during the cooking process.