Mussels with Tomato Sauce

Steps

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1. 1
   Clean the mussels thoroughly. Check each one individually under running water and gently rinse. Discard any mussels that are already open or have cracks in the shell.
   ▶ ≈0:45
2. 2
   Heat olive oil in a large pot. Add the chopped onion and sauté over medium heat until it begins to turn golden, about a few minutes. Be careful not to let it brown too much or burn.
   ▶ ≈5:05
3. 3
   Add the chopped garlic to the pot. Stir gently to combine with the onions.
   ▶ ≈6:55
4. 4
   Add the fresh basil to the pot. Stir gently to combine.
   ▶ ≈7:07
5. 5
   Add the chopped fresh parsley and a small amount of hot red pepper flakes. Continue stirring gently to mix everything together.
   ▶ ≈7:25
6. 6
   Pour in the peeled tomatoes. Gently squeeze the tomatoes to break them apart slightly. Mix everything well together.
   ▶ ≈8:10
7. 7
   Add salt, black pepper, and dried oregano to the sauce. Start with a smaller amount, then taste the sauce. Add more seasonings as needed to your preference.
   ▶ ≈9:25
8. 8
   Let the tomato sauce simmer on the stove for about 10 to 20 minutes. The tomatoes should cook down and the sauce will thicken and develop deeper flavors.
   ▶ ≈10:25
9. 9
   Add the cleaned mussels to the tomato sauce. Stir to distribute them evenly throughout the sauce.
   ▶ ≈11:50
10. 10
    Continue cooking for about 5 minutes until all the mussels have opened. Watch the pot carefully during this time.
    ▶ ≈12:23
11. 11
    Transfer the mussels and sauce to serving bowls. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Drizzle with a small amount of extra virgin olive oil.
    ▶ ≈13:39
12. 12
    Serve with crunchy Italian bread on the side. Use the bread to dip into the delicious tomato sauce and broth.
    ▶ ≈15:00