Smoking mussels on a propane grill can be a delicious way to prepare them with a smoky flavor. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to do it by Papa Ken at Maine Grilling Products.
Ingredients:
- Fresh mussels
- Propane grill
- Wood chips for smoking (such as hickory, applewood, or mesquite)
- Aluminum foil
- Olive oil
- Seasonings (salt, pepper, herbs, garlic, lemon juice, etc.)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Grill:
- Start by cleaning your propane grill and ensuring it's in good working order. Make sure you have enough propane to complete the cooking process.
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Soak the Wood Chips:
- If you're using wood chips for smoking, soak them in water for about 30 minutes to an hour before you start grilling or you may like to try a pre-soaked wood chips like Spiced Rum Hickory. This will help create a consistent smoke and prevent them from burning too quickly.
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Preheat the Grill:
- Preheat your propane grill to a low to medium-low temperature, around 225-250°F (107-121°C). Place a smoke box or a smoker box filled with the soaked wood chips directly on the grill grates or use a smoker tray designed for propane grills.
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Prepare the Mussels:
- While the grill is preheating, clean the mussels thoroughly. Rinse them under cold running water and remove any beards or debris. Discard any mussels that are open and do not close when tapped.
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Season the Mussels:
- In a large bowl, toss the cleaned mussels with a drizzle of olive oil and your preferred seasonings. You can use a simple mix of salt, pepper, garlic, and lemon juice, or get creative with your favorite herbs and spices.
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Smoke the Mussels:
- Place the seasoned mussels directly on the grill grates. If your grill has multiple burners, it's a good idea to have only one burner on beneath the mussels, while the others are off. This will create indirect heat and allow the mussels to cook gently with the smoky flavor.
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Add Smoke:
- Close the grill lid to keep the smoke inside. Check your wood chips periodically and add more soaked chips as needed to maintain a steady, light smoke.
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Monitor Cooking Time:
- Mussels will cook relatively quickly when smoked, usually in about 15-20 minutes. Be sure to keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking. They are done when they open up and are firm to the touch. Discard any mussels that do not open.
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Serve:
- Carefully remove the smoked mussels from the grill and transfer them to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon juice, if desired.
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Enjoy:
- Serve the smoked mussels immediately while they are hot and flavorful. They make a fantastic appetizer or a main course when served with crusty bread and a dipping sauce.
Remember that grilling times may vary depending on the size and temperature of your grill, so it's essential to keep a close eye on the mussels to avoid overcooking them. Enjoy your delicious smoked mussels! Papa Ken