Mussels soup, or “zuppa di cozze” in Italian, is a popular dish in Sicily. This soup is made with fresh mussels that are simmered in a tomato-based broth and flavored with garlic, onions, and other herbs and spices.
The mussels are picked fresh from the sea and thoroughly cleaned. They are then cooked in a pot together with tomato, garlic, parsley and chilli pepper for about 15-20 minutes. Sometimes the broth is enriched with white wine or brandy.
Stale bread is cut into cubes and toasted in a pan with garlic and olive oil, then used to garnish the mussel soup before serving it at the table.
Mussel soup is a very tasty and nutritious dish, ideal to enjoy during the colder seasons. It is often served as an appetizer or main course, accompanied by a glass of dry white or light red wine.
In Sicily, mussel soup is a very popular dish, especially in coastal areas where mussels are more abundant. There are several recipes variations, with the addition of potatoes, onions, carrots and other ingredients according to local traditions.
