Brancaster Mussels

Brancaster Staithe, a couple of miles along the coast from Thornham, has been producing the famed Brancaster Mussels (Mytilus Edulis) in their pollution-free shallow waters for more than 120 years.

The spat, or mussel seed, is collected from its natural spawning grounds in The Wash and planted in the harbour’s beds. They reach maturity after three or four summers where they are then graded and purified before been packed ready for overnight delivery all over the UK.

Mussels are truly one of nature’s most delightful delicacies. They are most often steamed, although they are wonderful grilled, baked, stewed or sautéed. They are extremely high in protein, calcium and iron, but low in fat and calories. They are also excellent for your heart, containing higher levels of omega3 (the naturally occurring fatty acid believed to lower blood pressure) than any other shellfish.

Mussels are out of season until September.