Introduction:
Barnacles are neither ducks nor mussels, but sessile barnacles. Only in their appearance do they resemble mussels. In the oceans, they attach themselves to floating objects, rocks, or even marine mammals such as whales or turtles. In Portugal and Spain, they are considered a delicacy. The meat has a delicate marine and iodine aroma and a nutty flavour reminiscent of shrimp.
Use/Preparation:
Cooked whole, the mussels are served without garnish.
Health:
Since barnacles, like real mussels, feed on plankton and filter seawater in the process, they absorb a lot of pollutants from the water. To avoid health risks from pollutants, crustaceans should be sourced from safe waters.
Alternatives:
Shellfish such as mussels, oysters or scallops. As a vegan alternative, mushrooms (e.g. the stems of herb mushrooms) pickled in a marinade of tamari or soy sauce and nori can be used.
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| Average nutritional values | per 100 g |
|---|---|
| Energy (kcal/kJ) | 66/276 |
| Fat | 0,4 g |
| Healthy fatty acids | 0 g |
| Carbohydrates | 2,1 g |
| Sugar | 0 g |
| Protein | 15,7 g |
| Salt | 0,7 g |
