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Buttery Steamed Mussels with Sake and Chillies

This aromatic steamed mussels recipe offers a contemporary twist on a coastal classic, replacing the traditional white wine and garlic base with the refined, umami-rich notes of Japanese sake. The heat from the Thai bird chillies cuts beautifully through the rich, buttery sauce, while fresh coriander provides a vibrant finish. It is a sophisticated yet deceptively simple seafood dish that brings a touch of elegance to any dinner table.

Perfect as a light starter or a main course for two, these sake-steamed mussels are an excellent choice for a quick midweek treat or a relaxed weekend supper. Serve in deep bowls with plenty of crusty bread or even some simple steamed rice to soak up the fragrant, spicy broth. High in protein and rich in minerals, this dish is as nourishing as it is flavourful.

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Ingredients for Buttery Steamed Mussels with Sake and Chillies

  • 5 tablespoons butter, divided

  • 575g chopped spring onions (about 10 large)

  • 1 cup chopped fresh coriander

  • 1 cup sake

  • 6 Thai bird chillies with seeds or 3 small serrano chillies with seeds, sliced crosswise into thin rounds

  • 2 teaspoons soy sauce

  • 3 large garlic cloves, pressed

  • 1.1kg mussels, scrubbed, debearded

How to make Buttery Steamed Mussels with Sake and Chillies

Melt 45ml butter in large pot over medium-high heat. Add spring onions and sauté until beginning to soften, about 2 minutes. Add next 5 ingredients. Bring to boil. Add mussels. Cover pot and increase heat to high. Cook until mussels open, 5 to 6 minutes.

Divide mussels among bowls (discard any mussels that do not open). Boil juices in pot to reduce slightly, about 1 minute. Whisk in remaining 2 tablespoons butter. Season sauce to taste with salt and pepper. Spoon sauce over mussels; serve.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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