Thai mussel soup

6 Servings

Ingredients

QuantityIngredient
2cupsWhite wine
2tablespoonsLemon juice
1smallOnion,chop
1Bay leaf
2tablespoonsGarlic,chop
8Cilantro sprigs
2poundsMussels,med,clean
4ouncesRice noodles/vermicelli
2tablespoonsOil
2smallsSerrano chilies,crush lightl
1tablespoonLime zest,grate
1tablespoonGarlic,chop
1tablespoonGingerroot,mince
2cupsBok choy,chop
8Scallion,slice thin,seperate
2cupsClam juice
1cupWater
2tablespoonsLime juice
2tablespoonsFish sauce
1tablespoonSoy sauce
1teaspoonSugar
2tablespoonsCilantro,chop

Directions

In large pot w/lid, combine wine, lemon juice, onion, celery, bay leaf, garlic & cilantro sprigs. Boil, add mussels, cover & steam til they open, 3-4min. (Don't overcook; they get a second cooking late) Remove mussels w/slotted spoon & cool. Strain liquid through srainer lined w/several layers of cheesecloth. sholud be 3cups.

Break up noodles, cover w/hot water & soak, 10-15min.

In heavy pot, heat oil. Add crushed chilies, zest, remaining garlic & ginger. Saute til tender, 1-2min; don't let ingredients brown. Add bok chou & white parts of scallion & cook another 3-4min, stir occasionally. Add clam juice, water, lime juice, fish sauce, soy sauce, sugar & strained mussel broth. Bring to simmer.

While heating, remove mussels from shells ( reserve anu juice, strain & add liquid to soup; add mussels. Simmer another 2-3min, garnish w/cilantro & scallion greens. Source: Fine Cooking, Feb/Mar'96,pp33