Mussels & Chips

Method

1. Place the cleaned mussels in a bowl and place in the sink, then run cold water over the mussels. Discard any mussels that do not close after tapping.
In a large saucepan, heat the oil and sauté the shallots, sugar and garlic for 2 mins. Add the white wine and season with salt, then reduce it by half.
2. Meanwhile, in a large saucepan, pour the vegetable oil one-third of the way up and heat to around 180C (add a small piece of a chip and if it sizzles, the oil is ready). Dry the fries with kitchen paper, then fry in small batches for 6-7 mins, or until golden, and then drain on a plate lined with kitchen roll.
3. Go back to the wine mixture and pour in 50ml cold water and add the parsley, and bring to the boil, covered.
4. Drain the mussels and add to the saucepan, covering with the lid immediately. Cook on a medium heat for 1-2 mins, until all the mussels have opened and are just cooked through.
5. Stir in the butter and lemon juice and zest, and season with black pepper.
6. Serve with the fries, dressed in Sarson’s vinegar and salt.