Saltspring Island Mussels from Canada

TASTING NOTES FROM THE CURATOR

Saltspring Island Mussels are grown in the Salish Sea off Saltspring Island, in British Columbia, Canada. They’re hybrid mussels, a cross between the Atlantic Blue Mussel and the Mediterranean Mussel. Saltspring Island Mussels are farmed sustainably, using techniques that protect the pristine environment. Both the techniques, and the nutrient-rich waters result in mussels that are very plump and very meaty, with a wonderfully sweet taste.

PREPARATION AND PAIRINGS

There are so many ways to enjoy Saltspring Island Mussels, such as the classic Filipino way—boiled in a ginger broth. They’re also great steamed, with some garlic and parsley. You can also grill them, bake them, simmer them in a tomato-based sauce, or steam them and drizzle some garlic butter over them.

SUSTAINABILITY IN THE PURSUIT OF QUALITY

In British Columbia, there stands Saltspring Island, a gorgeous landmass sparkling in the Straight of Georgia. The clean, nutrient-rich waters surrounding it have produced incredible shellfish for nearly a century. In 1996, Saltspring Island Mussels was formed, the first mussel farm in British Columbia. In 1998, they built a small hatchery, and researched sustainable farming techniques. Their goal is to have the world’s best mussel, while not only respecting, but taking care of the pristine environment.

Storage Instructions

Store your fresh shellfish in the fridge, keeping the temperature between 0 to 5°C. Place it in a bowl with ice at the bottom—or if you have the room, place ice in a large bowl, then place the shellfish in a slightly smaller bowl to sit in the large one—and cover everything up with a wet paper towel. To enjoy them at their freshest, please consume them within 48 hours.