Mussles, the main event
these two ingredients are the most traditional base for steaming mussels in the classic "moules mariere"
wine and garlic
This pink seafood is the most commonly consumed in the U.S.
shrimp
This word describes the satisfying chef move where you toss food in a pan without a spatula — and try not to launch it across the kitchen.
sauteing
This fish can inflate itself to several times its size to avoid predators.
pufferfish
Mussels pair famously well with this type of white wine, dry and crisp.
Sauvignon Blanc
mussels naturally filter this many gallons of water per day
up to 20 gallons
Scallops move by doing this — a surprising athletic ability.
clapping their shells to swim
Lifting the lid during this cooking method releases all the trapped steam, which is why chefs say it’s like opening the oven to check a cake: don’t do it.
steaming
The world’s largest mollusk, weighing up to 500 lbs, is this type of clam.
giant clam
Lobster with butter pairs beautifully with this rich white varietal.
chardonnay
When mussels cook, they do this dramatic thing that looks like they’re gossiping:
they open their shells
This region is known for “lobster rolls,” especially the butter-heavy Connecticut and mayo-heavy Maine styles.
new england
This step, often skipped by impatient cooks, lets juices redistribute in meat or fish so it stays tender instead of throwing a tantrum when sliced.
resting
This sea creature has three hearts and blue blood.
octopus
Sushi pairs exceptionally well with this rice-based Japanese drink.
sake
This country eats so many mussels that one of its national dishes is literally a giant pot of them served with fries.
belgium
This type of tuna is prized for sushi and can weigh over 1,000 lbs.
tuna (bluefin)
To check if a pan is hot enough for fish or veggies, cooks often look for this reaction when a tiny drop of water hits the pan.
it sizzles
Horseshoe crabs' blue blood is used for this purpose in medicine.
testing for bacterial contamination
Oysters and this sparkling beverage are a classic pairing.
champagne
Mussels are one of the most eco-friendly proteins on earth because they require exactly this much feed to grow.
none
This biological process causes certain seafood to glow in the ocean at night.
bioluminescence
Tilt the pan, spoon hot butter over the fish repeatedly, and you’re performing this classic French technique.
basting
These animals, famous for their intelligence, can recognize themselves in mirrors.
dolphins
Spicy seafood dishes work well with this slightly sweet German wine style.
riesling