A pot of mussels can be a very satisfying, hearty dish that comes together in minutes. This version involves cooking the mussels with smoky bacon, leeks and beer. Finished with Dijon mustard and a touch of heavy cream, all you need to serve it with is a toasty baguette.
Cook the bacon in a Dutch oven or other large heavy pot over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned and crisp, 3 to 5 minutes. Add the butter and let melt, then add the shallots and cook until tender, about 2 minutes. Stir in the garlic until softened, about 30 seconds. Add the leeks and cook, stirring occasionally, until slightly wilted, about 2 minutes.
Add the beer and thyme sprigs to the pot and bring to a simmer. Add the mussels, cover and cook until they open, 3 to 5 minutes. Stir together the mustard and heavy cream in a small bowl, then stir the cream mixture into the mussels until combined; return to a simmer. Discard any mussels that do not open and discard the thyme sprigs.
Divide the mussels, vegetables and broth among shallow bowls. Sprinkle with the parsley and serve with the sliced baguette.
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Photograph by Andrew Purcell
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