Mejillones: A Complete Guide to Mussels, Their Benefits, and Uses

When you hear the word mejillones, you might picture a steaming pot of mussels, a favorite dish in Mediterranean and coastal cuisines. In Spanish, mejillones means mussels, a type of shellfish that has been enjoyed for centuries for its rich flavor and impressive nutritional profile. But mejillones are more than just a tasty seafood option they’re packed with health benefits, easy to cook, and carry cultural importance in many parts of the world.

This article explores everything about mejillones: their history, health benefits, cooking methods, and even some fun facts.

What Are Mejillones?

Mejillones are bivalve mollusks, meaning they have two hinged shells. They usually attach themselves to rocks, docks, or ropes in the ocean using strong threads called byssal threads. Recognized for their shiny blue-black shells, they are found in both saltwater and freshwater environments.

The most common types include:

• Blue mussels (Mytilus edulis): Popular in Europe and North America.
• Mediterranean mussels (Mytilus galloprovincialis): Common in Spain and Italy.
• Green-lipped mussels (Perna canaliculus): Native to New Zealand, known for medicinal properties.

Nutritional Value of Mejillones

Mejillones are considered a superfood of the sea. A 100-gram serving provides:

• Protein: Around 18–20 grams
• Omega-3 fatty acids: Essential for heart health
• Iron: Vital for preventing anemia
• Vitamin B12: Boosts brain function and energy
• Zinc and selenium: Supports immunity
• Low fat and calories: Great for weight management

This combination makes mejillones a powerhouse food for maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

Health Benefits of Mejillones

1. Boosts Heart Health
   Omega-3 fatty acids in mussels help reduce inflammation, lower cholesterol, and protect against cardiovascular disease.
2. Supports Brain Function
   The vitamin B12 and omega-3s improve memory, concentration, and overall brain performance.
3. Strengthens Immunity
   With high levels of zinc and selenium, mejillones help the body fight off infections.
4. Aids in Joint Health
   Green-lipped mussels are known for their anti-inflammatory properties, often used in supplements for arthritis relief.
5. Promotes Healthy Skin and Hair
   The minerals in mussels nourish skin, nails, and hair, giving them a natural glow.

Mejillones in Spanish Cuisine

In Spain, mejillones hold a special place in gastronomy. They’re not just food—they’re culture. Here are a few popular ways Spaniards enjoy them:

• Mejillones al vapor (steamed mussels): Simple, with lemon and parsley.
• Mejillones en escabeche (pickled mussels): Preserved in vinegar and spices, often served as tapas.
• Paella de mariscos (seafood paella): Mussels add flavor and decoration to this iconic dish.
• Mejillones rellenos (stuffed mussels): Breaded and fried, also known as tigres in northern Spain.

Every coastal region has its own traditional way of preparing mejillones, making them a symbol of local pride.

How to Clean and Prepare Mejillones

Before cooking, mussels need a bit of prep:

1. Rinse under cold water to remove dirt and sand.
2. Scrub the shells with a brush to clean them.
3. Remove the beard (byssal threads) by pulling firmly.
4. Discard any open mussels that don’t close when tapped—they may not be safe to eat.

Once cleaned, they’re ready for steaming, boiling, or adding to your favorite dish.

Popular Cooking Methods

1. Steamed Mejillones
   Cook them in a pot with garlic, onion, white wine, and herbs until the shells open.
2. Grilled Mejillones
   Place them on a grill with butter, garlic, and parsley for a smoky flavor.
3. Mejillones a la marinera
   Mussels simmered in a rich tomato, onion, and paprika sauce—a Spanish classic.
4. Mejillones with Pasta
   Perfect with spaghetti, olive oil, chili, and parsley for an Italian twist.

Mejillones in Other Cultures

• France: Known as moules marinières, mussels cooked in white wine, cream, and garlic.
• Belgium: Famous for moules-frites, mussels served with crispy fries.
• Asia: Often added to curries, soups, and stir-fries.

This global popularity shows how versatile mejillones are across cuisines.

Conclusion

Mejillones are more than just seafood. They’re a rich source of nutrients, a key part of many cultural dishes, and a sustainable food choice for the future. Whether steamed, pickled, grilled, or tossed in pasta, mejillones bring both flavor and health benefits to the table.

So next time you’re at the market or a seaside restaurant, don’t hesitate—order a plate of mejillones and savor the taste of the sea.

FAQs About Mejillones

1. Are mejillones healthy to eat?
Yes, they’re low in fat, high in protein, and packed with vitamins and minerals.

2. How do I know if mussels are fresh?
Fresh mussels have tightly closed shells and smell like the ocean.

3. Can I eat mejillones raw?
It’s best to cook them, as raw mussels can carry bacteria or toxins.

4. What’s the difference between mejillones and clams?
Both are bivalves, but mussels have darker, elongated shells, while clams are rounder and lighter in color.

5. Are mejillones sustainable seafood?
Yes, mussel farming is eco-friendly, requiring no added feed and improving water quality.