mussels , ipa steamed with roasted garlic

By Snook

Ingredients

• 1 tsp. extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 head garlic
• 3 Tbs. unsalted butter
• 2 lb. mussels, cleaned
• 1/2 cup India pale ale, such as Lagunitas or Dogfish Head
• 1 Tbs. cilantro leaves (optional)

Preparation

Step 1

Position a rack in the center of the oven, and heat the oven to 350°F.

Rub the olive oil on the garlic, and wrap in aluminum foil. Bake until the garlic is soft, 30 to 45 minutes. Let cool slightly.

Using a serrated knife, halve the garlic crosswise. Squeeze all the cloves out into a small bowl.

In a 5- to 6-quart pot, melt 2 Tbs. of the butter over high heat. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add the mussels and beer, cover, and cook until the mussels begin to open, about 4 minutes. Uncover, add the remaining butter and cilantro, if using, and cook until all the mussels are open, about 3 minutes more. Serve.