INGREDIENTS

  • 11⁄2 T (22 g) unsalted butter
  • 1 T (15 g) shallot, minced
  • 1 tsp (3 g) garlic, minced
  • 1 C (180 g) fennel bulb, finely chopped
  • 1⁄4 C (50 g) piquillo pepper or roasted red pepper, drained & minced
  • Salt to taste
  • 1⁄4 C (59 g) dry vermouth, like Cinzano
  • 1 1⁄2 C (355 g) heavy cream
  • 2 pinches saffron threads
  • 1 C (200 g) lump crabmeat, picked over for cartilage
  • 4 dozen live mussels, scrubbed and debearded
  • Fennel fronds, chopped

GUIDE / INSTRUCTIONS

For the Steamed Mussels
  • Melt butter in a large pot with a tight-fitting lid over medium heat. Add shallot, garlic, fennel bulb, peppers and salt, stirring often, until fennel has softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in vermouth and cook until almost entirely evaporated. Add heavy cream and saffron; bring to a boil; reduce heat to low. Add crab and mussels; stir to combine. Cover and simmer 3-4 minutes, or until mussels open. Transfer mussels to bowls; spoon liquid and vegetables over them, and garnish with chopped fennel fronds.

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Viking’s river cruise ships, known as “Longships,” are designed for comfortable river travel and offer a Scandinavian design aesthetic. Viking cruises sail on rivers in Europe, Russia, China, Southeast Asia, Egypt, and the Mississippi River in the United States. Viking cruises include shore excursions, Wi-Fi, and onboard dining, aiming to provide a “no nickel-and-diming” experience. Viking focuses on cultural enrichment, offering lectures, performances, and local culinary experiences. Viking River Cruises are popular with mature travelers, retirees, and couples seeking a relaxed and culturally enriching experience. Ships feature restaurants, lounges, bars, libraries, boutiques, pools, and sun decks. Guests can choose from included guided tours or explore destinations independently. Viking offers a variety of dining options, including open seating, regional cuisine, and wine pairings. Viking is one of the few major cruise brands that does not allow children under 18 on its ships. Viking offers a range of included features, services, and excursions, such as complimentary shore excursions, free Wi-Fi, and onboard beverages.

Serve Steamed Mussels with crusty bread.

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