Located in Gündoğan, Bodrum, Midyeci Şehmus Usta’s establishment is a culinary haven for seafood enthusiasts, especially those with a penchant for mussels. The restaurant offers a diverse menu centered around mussels, including stuffed mussels (midye dolma), fried mussels (midye tava), and mussel pilaf (midyeli pilav).
“One cannot think well, love well, sleep well, if one has not dined well.”
— Virginia Woolf
Preparation of Midye Dolma:
Midye dolma is a cherished delicacy in Turkish cuisine, celebrated for its harmonious blend of flavors. The preparation involves several meticulous steps:
- Cleaning: Fresh mussels are thoroughly cleaned to remove any impurities, ensuring safety and enhancing taste.
- Stuffing: A savory filling is prepared using rice, onions, pine nuts, currants, and a medley of spices such as allspice, cinnamon, and black pepper. This mixture is gently sautéed and then used to stuff each mussel.
- Cooking: The stuffed mussels are arranged in a pot, drizzled with olive oil, and simmered with a splash of water until the rice is tender and the flavors meld together.
- Serving: Once cooled, midye dolma is traditionally served with fresh lemon wedges, allowing diners to add a zesty brightness that complements the rich, spiced filling.
This meticulous preparation results in a dish that embodies authenticity and offers a fresh, delightful taste of the sea.
At Midyeci Şehmus Usta’s restaurant, each serving of midye dolma is crafted with dedication to preserve the traditional essence of the dish while ensuring the highest quality and freshness. This commitment has solidified the establishment’s reputation as a must-visit destination for those seeking an authentic taste of Turkish seafood cuisine.