Mussels, Crab & Shrimp in Ale-Spiked Butter

Description: A hearty Irish coastal-style seafood boil featuring mussels, crab, shrimp, potatoes, and corn coated in a rich Irish ale butter infused with garlic, lemon, and herbs. A perfect sharing dish with bold flavours of the sea and Irish ale.

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Serving Size: Serves 4

Ingredients

Seafood & Vegetables

• 1 kg mussels, cleaned
• 500g crab claws or legs
• 500g raw shrimp, shell-on
• 6–8 small potatoes, halved
• 2 ears corn, cut into chunks
• 1 onion, quartered
• 1 lemon, halved
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tbsp sea salt

Irish Ale Butter

• 150g butter
• 150ml Irish ale
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp paprika or smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp wholegrain mustard (optional)
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt & pepper

Instructions

Step 1 – Cook the Potatoes and Corn

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add potatoes, corn, onion, lemon halves, and bay leaves. Cook 10 minutes.

Step 2 – Add the Crab and Shrimp

Stir in the crab and cook 3 minutes. Add shrimp and cook 2 minutes until pink.

Step 3 – Add the Mussels

Add mussels, cover, and cook 5 minutes until shells open. Discard any that remain closed.

Step 4 – Make the Irish Ale Butter

Melt butter in a pan. Add garlic, cook 1 minute. Pour in ale and simmer 2–3 minutes. Add lemon zest, paprika, parsley, mustard, salt, and pepper.

Step 5 – Combine Everything

Drain the pot. Transfer seafood and vegetables to a large tray or bowl. Pour ale butter generously over everything.

Step 6 – Serve

Serve immediately with crusty bread and lemon wedges.

Tips

• Red ale adds sweetness; pale ale adds brightness.
• For heat, add chili flakes to the butter.
• Make it a feast by adding smoked sausage or extra shellfish.