Name: Japanese Baked Mussels Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 dozen Mussels on a half shell, frozen; ½ cup Kewpie mayonnaise; 1 teaspoon Sriracha; 1 teaspoon Soy sauce; 1 teaspoon Lemon juice; 2 tablespoon Masago (smelt roe); 1 Stalk scallions only the green part

Table of Contents

If you’re a fan of Japanese cuisine or looking to explore new and exciting flavors, get ready to indulge in a tantalizing dish known as Japanese Baked Mussels. This Japanese Baked Mussels Recipe combines the briny goodness of mussels with a creamy miso mayo sauce, creating a mouthwatering appetizer that is sure to leave you craving for more.

If you’ve ever dined at a Japanese izakaya or sushi restaurant, you might have come across this delectable dish, sometimes referred to as “Mussels Dynamite” or “Mussels Motoyaki.” The combination of plump, juicy mussels, the umami-packed miso mayo sauce, a hint of heat from Sriracha, and the finishing touch of vibrant garnishes create a flavor profile that is both indulgent and harmonious.

Ingredients Used In Japanese Baked Mussels Recipe

1 dozen Mussels on a half shell, frozen
Kewpie mayonnaise, ½ cup
Sriracha, 1 teaspoon
Soy sauce, 1 teaspoon
Lemon juice, 1 teaspoon
Masago (smelt roe), 2 tablespoon
1 Stalk scallions only the green part

Here are the step-by-step instructions for the Japanese Baked Mussels Recipe

Step 1

Make sure the mussels are rinsed under cold water. Chop the meat roughly after removing it from its shell.

Step 2

Add Kewpie, sriracha, soy sauce, lemon juice, half the masago, and half the scallions to the meat (reserve the remaining masago and scallions for garnish).

Step 3

The mixture should be spooned into the shells again.

Step 4

Lay a baking sheet lined with foil on which you will place the mussels.

Step 5

You can broil these for about 10 minutes at 450 degrees using a toaster oven.

Step 6

Masago and scallions may be garnished with the remaining ingredients.

Variations and Substitutions

While the traditional Japanese Baked Mussels recipe is a delight on its own, there are various ways to add your own twist or accommodate dietary preferences. Here are some variations and substitutions you can consider:

Seafood Variations: If you’re a seafood lover, feel free to experiment with different types of seafood. Instead of mussels, you can try using scallops, shrimp, or even a combination of seafood. Just ensure that the seafood you choose is suitable for baking and adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Cheese Topping: For an added layer of indulgence, consider sprinkling some grated cheese over the stuffed mussels before baking. Mozzarella or Parmesan cheese works well and adds a deliciously gooey and golden finish.

Vegetarian Option: If you prefer a vegetarian version of the Japanese Baked Mussels Recipe, you can substitute the mussels with firm tofu or grilled eggplant slices. Prepare the miso mayo sauce as usual and proceed with the recipe.

Gluten-Free: To make the Japanese Baked Mussels Recipe gluten-free, ensure that the ingredients you use, such as soy sauce and Sriracha, are certified gluten-free. You can also explore gluten-free alternatives for the miso sauce, such as gluten-free miso paste.

Spiciness Level: Adjust the spiciness of the dish according to your preference. If you enjoy a milder flavor, reduce the amount of Sriracha. Conversely, if you love spicy food, feel free to add more or incorporate other hot sauces of your choice.

Herb Infusion: For an herbaceous twist, consider adding fresh herbs to the miso mayo sauce or as a garnish. Chopped cilantro, parsley, or thinly sliced basil leaves can complement the flavors and add a refreshing touch.

Citrus Zest: Enhance the tangy notes of the dish by adding zest from citrus fruits like lime or orange to the miso mayo sauce. This will infuse the mussels with a bright and zesty aroma.

Garnish and Serving

To elevate the presentation and enhance the flavors of your Japanese Baked Mussels Recipe, consider the following garnish and serving suggestions:

Toasted Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds not only add a nutty aroma but also bring a delightful crunch to the dish. Sprinkle them on top of the baked mussels for an extra layer of texture.

Microgreens or Sprouts: For a touch of elegance and a hint of earthiness, garnish the dish with a small handful of microgreens or sprouts. Choose delicate greens like micro cilantro or radish sprouts to complement the flavors.

Drizzle of Sriracha Mayo: If you enjoy an extra kick of spiciness, mix some Sriracha sauce with mayonnaise and drizzle it over the baked mussels just before serving. This adds a beautiful visual contrast and a creamy, fiery finish.

Lemon Wedges: Serve Japanese Baked Mussels with lemon wedges on the side. The fresh citrus juice can be squeezed over the mussels just before eating to enhance the flavors and provide a bright, tangy element.

Serving Platter: Arrange the baked mussels on a decorative platter or individual serving plates. Consider using a bed of rock salt or a bed of fresh lettuce leaves to create an appealing presentation.

Conclusion

We hope that this Japanese Baked Mussels Recipe has not only provided you with a delightful culinary experience but has also sparked a newfound appreciation for the intricate flavors and techniques of Japanese cuisine. So gather your ingredients, embrace your inner chef, and embark on a journey of taste and discovery with Japanese Baked Mussels Recipe.

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