Midhje të Butrintit me Hudhër e Verë (Butrint Lagoon Mussels in White Wine & Lemon) – Authentic Albania Recipe
From the ancient Ionian lagoon of Butrint: sweet mussels steamed in garlic, olive oil, and lemon.
- Country of Origin
- 🇦🇱 Albania (Southern Europe, Europe)
- Dietary Profile
- pescatarian
- Prep Time
- 15 min
- Cook Time
- 25 min
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Signature Staples
- Plump mussels or shrimp, Cherry tomatoes, Grilled rustic bread, Garlic, Dry white wine
Ingredients for Midhje të Butrintit me Hudhër e Verë (Butrint Lagoon Mussels in White Wine & Lemon) (4 Servings)
- 1.25 lbs (or 2.5 cups) plump mussels or shrimp, prepped into bite-sized pieces
- 1.5 cups cherry tomatoes, washed and trimmed
- 1 cup grilled rustic bread
- 1 medium onion and 3 cloves garlic, finely minced with garlic
- 1.5 tbsp traditional Albania seasoning (dry white wine, fresh lemon juice, parsley, chili flakes)
- 2.5 cups rich culinary stock or aromatic cooking liquid, plus 2 tbsp cooking oil
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Warm cooking oil in a heavy pot over medium heat; gently sweat the minced onion, garlic, and garlic for 3–4 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in dry white wine, fresh lemon juice, parsley, chili flakes and toast for 45 seconds to release the essential oils of Albania's kitchen.
- Add plump mussels or shrimp and cherry tomatoes, tossing to coat in the aromatic base.
- Pour in the stock, bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer covered for 18–20 minutes until tender and deeply flavorful.
- Fold in grilled rustic bread, adjust seasoning, and ladle steaming hot into deep bowls.