Billi Bi Recipe: Mussels From Brussels (Spilled Milk #104)

The cream and curry powder in this easy soup marry so well with the intense, sweet brininess of the mussels.

And I am not talking about Jean-Claude Van Damme. He is the Muscles from Brussels. These are, well, the mussels from Bangs Island. I ordered them from Maine Lobster Now.

Billi Bi is a soup of French origin that has been widely adopted and popularized in Belgium. The soup is made from mussels and cream, with the occasional addition of curry powder, which gives it a unique flavor and aroma. Supposedly named for an American businessman who loved it, Billi Bi has, over time, become a popular dish throughout Belgium, particularly along the coastal areas where fresh seafood is abundant.

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One of the reasons for Billi Bi's popularity in Belgium is its use of curry powder, which adds an exotic touch to this classic soup. Curry is a spice blend that comprises various herbs, including turmeric, ginger and coriander among others. This blend of spices gives the soup an aromatic and intense flavor that pairs well with the creamy texture of the soup.

The popularity of curry in that particular part of Northern Europe can be traced back to the time when European countries had colonies in India and Southeast Asia. During the colonial era, Europeans got exposed to the cuisine and spices of these regions, and curry soon became a favorite food among them. India was particularly significant in this regard, given the British Empire's strong presence and influence in the country, and their trade with Belgium and their African colonies.

The English East India Company began importing large quantities of curry powder, specifically Madras curry, to London in the late 18th century, and this marked the beginning of the spice's popularity in the West.

Curry and its associated dishes became increasingly popular in the 19th and 20th centuries, especially among the middle and working classes in England. This was partly due to the emergence of Indian restaurants and takeaways, which provided an affordable option for people to try new and exotic flavors. The dish's popularity also spread to other parts of Northern Europe, such as Denmark, Sweden, Belgium and the Netherlands, due to the region's historical links with Britain.

Mussels are a popular and sustainable seafood choice, as they are a renewable resource that can be farmed without any negative impact on the environment. Moreover, mussels are an excellent source of protein and provide several essential nutrients like iron, selenium and vitamin B-12. They are also low in fat and calories, making them a healthy option for people watching their weight or cholesterol intake. Mussels are also high in omega-3 fatty acids, which have been linked to numerous health benefits, including a reduced risk of heart disease and improved brain health.

Ready for the recipe? Let’s cook.