Loblaws sells these vaccuum-sealed mussels. When I pick them up with hand, I see much liquid sloshing inside. Is this normal? Or something wrong with mussels?
Liquid sloshing around in vacuum-packed mussels
mussels
Related Solutions
Yes, the additional liquid came from the mussels and is going to enhance the flavor of your finished dish. All you need to do is remove the mussels to a bowl, cover lightly to keep them warm, and then turn the heat up to high on your pan and reduce the liquid until it's concentrated before whisking in your butter. (I presume you added butter even though you didn't list it above?)
If not...finish it by whisking in softened (not too soft, but slightly) butter (known as "mounting with butter" monte au beurre) which will emulsify with the concentrated cooking liquid and add a luxurious texture and richness to your sauce. Finish by adding your chopped parsley and adjust seasoning according to taste.
The beard is also known as byssus threads. They are the filaments that the mussel uses to secure itself to hard surfaces. They are usually brownish and may appear somewhat like seaweed. Most mussels commercially available have been farm-raised so often the beards have already been removed during processing. If you have beards, grasp them firmly and pull towards the shell hinge until it comes out. You may need to use a dry paper towel to increase your grip as they can be slippery.
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Best Answer
It's hard to see how much liquid is there. It could just be brine or seawater which would be ok, but considering the date of mid 2018 and the fact the the packet says "live" and "do not freeze" I would have to assume that they were frozen slowly by the retailer and the resulting large ice crystals damaged the flesh, causing the mussels to weep liquid upon thawing.
These would have to have been in quite a deep deep freeze to have a hope of being surely safe.