Crispy & Savory: Beer-Battered Fried Mussels with Garlic Aioli

Crispy & Savory: Beer-Battered Fried Mussels with Garlic Aioli
Ingredients:

For the Mussels:

1 pound fresh mussels, cleaned and debearded
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup cold beer (lager or pale ale works best)
Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Garlic Aioli:

1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 cloves garlic, finely minced or grated
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:

Prepare the Mussels:

Rinse the mussels thoroughly under cold water, discarding any that are cracked or won’t close when tapped.
Steam the mussels in a large pot with a splash of water or beer over medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes, just until they open. Discard any that remain closed.
Remove the mussels from their shells and pat them dry with a paper towel.
Make the Beer Batter:

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Slowly pour in the cold beer, whisking until a smooth batter forms. The batter should be thick enough to coat the mussels without dripping excessively.
Heat the Oil:

Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or heavy pot over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer for accuracy.
Fry the Mussels:

Working in batches, dip each mussel into the beer batter, letting the excess drip off. Carefully lower the battered mussels into the hot oil.
Fry for 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried mussels to a plate lined with paper towels to drain.
Prepare the Garlic Aioli:

In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy.
Serve and Enjoy:

Arrange the beer-battered fried mussels on a serving platter and serve with a side of garlic aioli for dipping. Garnish with lemon wedges and fresh parsley if desired.
A Crispy Coastal Treat!
Beer-Battered Fried Mussels with Garlic Aioli is a perfect dish for seafood lovers. The light, crispy batter paired with the zesty, creamy garlic aioli makes for an irresistible appetizer or snack. Pair it with a cold beer or crisp white wine for the ultimate indulgence!