GOODNESS
Bay Leaf: That green headband around Ceasar's head was bay, and it has a long and glorious culinary history in Mediterranean countries.
Bay can be bitter when fresh, so let it dry for a few days if you pluck it green from the tree. After drying, it keeps nicely in an airtight jar. It gives up its flavor slowly, which is why you add it to the beginning of slow-cooked soups and stews. It has a slightly musty aroma with shades of nutmeg that can overpower a dish, so only use half a leaf for each serving. Don't forget to pull them out before serving!

Garlic: Garlic is in the same family as onions and leeks, and purportedly provided ancient Roman soldiers the courage to battle the barbarians. Whether or not it gives you courage, it is known to lower blood pressure, which is great for your heart and helps prevent stroke. In addition, it has a long history as a digestive aid, so don't be shy with this wonderful herb, no matter what it does to your breath!

Ginger: This spicy root is known as the universal remedy. Although it's well-known as a stomach soother, it also improves circulation, fights tumors, reduces inflammation and boosts the immune system. Oh, and it's good for pain and a fever. The only possible drawbacks are for people with gallstones or those on blood thinners.

Thyme: This aromatic herb has anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties and contains thymol, a well-known antiseptic (you might be gargling with it). It's good for the digestion and is supposed to have some aphrodisiac qualities, although that just may be be due to the well-known connection between love and good food.
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Recipe

Curry - Coconut Mussels

serves
prep time: 10
cook time: 19

ingredients

  • 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon finely grated peeled ginger
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine
  • 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
  • 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon curry powder
  • 1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme
  • 3/4 teaspoon lightly crumbled saffron threads
  • 1 bay leaf (not California)
  • 1 (1 3/4 cups) can unsweetened coconut milk
  • 1 tomato, peeled, seeded, and chopped
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons sambal oelek (chile paste)
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
  • 2 pounds mussels (preferably cultivated), well scrubbed
  • Accompaniment: lime wedges

directions

Cook onion, garlic, and ginger in oil in a 4- to 1 1/4 gallons heavy pot over moderately low heat, stirring frequently, until onion is softened. Stir in wine, juices, curry powder, thyme, saffron, bay leaf, coconut milk, tomato, and sambal oelek, then simmer, uncovered, stirring occasionally, until reduced slightly, about 15 minutes.

Add cilantro and mussels and cook, covered, over high heat just until mussels open, 4 minutes (discard any unopened mussels), then season with salt. Serve immediately.