Butter Garlic Mussels

Mussels are a high protein food source. Their low fat content makes them potentially healthier than other protein sources.
Mussels are also an excellent source of vitamin B12 and selenium, which is an essential micro-nutrient. Mussels are also good sources of other B vitamins (particularly folate), phosphorus, manganese and zinc. Mussels are a very good source of omega-3 fatty acids and are considered an excellent seafood choice.Mussels are a healthy and nutritious addition to most meals and can provide real benefits to health and well being. They are low in fat and high in nutrients like omega-3 and iron, and are also delicious and versatile.
Here is a simple starter made using mussels.
I have used frozen mussel meat (mussel meat removed from the shells) but the best way to make mussels is to cook them when live since mussels are prone to the same types of bacterial contamination as other seafood and should only be prepared if they are live, as dead mussels quickly deteriorate.

Serves 3

Ingredients:

Mussel meat - 250 gms
Garlic - 6 flakes
Butter - 50 gms
Cayenne pepper or Chilly pepper or red chilly powder - 1 tsp
Salt - only if required as mussels are normally a bit salty
Coriander or mint leaves - 1 tbsp for garnishing
Lemon juice - 1 tsp for garnishing

Method:
Wash the mussel meat. 

You could also use fresh mussels and boil them in a pot of water until they open.

Do not add salt since mussels are normally already a bit salty. Drain excess water and keep aside.

Finely chop garlic.
Now take a heavy bottomed pan or wok and add butter, and then add the garlic.
Fry till translucent, around 1 minute.
Now add the mussel meat or mussels with shell and fry for 3-4 minutes but not more. They will slightly change color too when cooked.
Now sprinkle cayenne pepper/chilly pepper/chilly powder and mix well.
Garnish with coriander leaves/mint leaves and lemon juice. Serve hot.
The excess butter garlic sauce can be used to dip bread while eating this dish. It goes as a good accompaniment.