Green shell mussel

Everything you've ever wanted to know about green lipped mussels

Green shell mussel

Everything you've ever wanted to know about green lipped mussels

TYPE: Perna canaliculus

BEST CATCH: Year-round

PREPARATION: Roasted & grilled

Related species: Greenshell mussels belong to the Mytilidae family and are closely related to other mussels species and species from the genus Perna.In contrast to mussels, greenshell mussels are characterized by their larger size and their bright emerald green shell, which gives them their name.

RECIPE RECOMMENDATION: Gratinated with safran aioli or cooked in a bouillabaisse

FLAVOR:

The green shell mussel, also known as green lipped mussel, is a type of mussel that is native to the clear waters of New Zealand. This mussel is prized for its mild, slightly sweet taste and delicate texture and is an integral part of New Zealand cuisine.

The green shell mussel, a true gem of New Zealand's coasts, impresses with its unique appearance and delicate taste. Its elongated shell is a vibrant green at the edges, fading into a warm, cream-colored hue. This colorful splendor makes the green shell mussel a real eye-catcher in any kitchen. The mussel meat itself is tender and juicy, with a mild, slightly sweet aroma reminiscent of the fresh sea air.

Greenshell mussels belong to the Mytilidae family and are native to the clear, cool waters of New Zealand. These mussels prefer rocky shores and shallow waters where they attach themselves to stones and rocks. In their natural environment, green shell mussels contribute to water purification by filtering plankton and organic particles from the water. This natural filtration process supports the ecological balance of coastal waters.

The greenshell mussel is not only known for its delicious taste, but also for its considerable size - it can grow up to 24 centimetres long and provides plenty of tender meat. Its distinctive, bright green edges and the smooth surface of the shell are characteristic of this mussel species and clearly distinguish it from other mussels. Compared to other mussel species, the green shell mussel has a particularly juicy and meaty texture, which makes it a sought-after delicacy in fine dining.

Green shell mussels in detail

Emerald green delicacy

The mussel has a striking, bright emerald green shell, which is characterized by its eye-catching color and smooth surface. Its tender, juicy flesh is a light golden to orange shade and has a creamy, buttery texture.

Emerald green delicacy

The mussel has a striking, bright emerald green shell, which is characterized by its eye-catching color and smooth surface. Its tender, juicy flesh is a light golden to orange shade and has a creamy, buttery texture.

Fun fact:

The larvae of the green shell mussel can swim hundreds of kilometers with the ocean currents, however, the mussels are mainly found in the waters around New Zealand, although they can now also be found along the southern coasts of Australia. In addition, there is no fixed time of year when the green mussels spawn. The timing and duration of the spawning season can vary and is directly dependent on the availability of food as well as the temperature.