Baked Tahong: A Cheesy, Garlicky Seafood Delight
4-6 Servings
Baked Tahong (mussels) is a popular Filipino appetizer or main dish that’s both delicious and incredibly easy to make. Fresh mussels are baked with a creamy garlic butter sauce and topped with melted cheese, creating a savory and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
10min Prep
15min Cook
INGREDIENTS
- 1 kg (2.2 lbs) fresh mussels, cleaned and debearded
- 1/2 cup butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped onion (optional)
- 1/4 cup bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup grated cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or parmesan)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Mussels: In a large pot, steam the mussels over medium heat until they open up. Discard any mussels that do not open.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: In a pan, melt butter over low heat. Add garlic and onion (if using), and sauté until fragrant.
4. Assemble and Bake: Arrange the mussels in a baking dish. Top each mussel with the garlic butter sauce, bread crumbs, and grated cheese. Bake for 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.
The Story of Baked Tahong:
Baked Tahong is a dish that reflects the Philippines’ rich coastal cuisine and the abundance of fresh seafood found in its waters. Mussels, or “tahong,” are a popular ingredient in Filipino cooking, known for their sweet, briny flavor and versatility.
Baked Tahong is a relatively recent addition to Filipino cuisine, likely influenced by Western cooking styles. However, it has quickly become a beloved dish enjoyed across the country, thanks to its simplicity, deliciousness, and accessibility.
