Portuguese Creamy and Flavorful Mussel Soup

1. In a saucepan, place the mussels washed.
2. Cover and cook on medium heat for 5 minutes, until the shells open.
3. After the mussels are opened, remove from the heat and let them cool slightly.
4. Remove the mussels from the shells and put aside.
5. Strain the broth into a thin net and put it aside.
6. In a pan, add some olive oil, the onion, garlic, bay leaf and red pepper.
7. Stir and cook over medium heat until everything is well cooked.
8. After everything is sautéed, remove the bay leaf, add the flour and mix very well.
9. Gradually stir in the broth from cooking the mussels, so you have about 3 cups of liquid (add some water if needed).
10. Add the saffron and the tabasco sauce and stir until it starts to boil.
11. When it starts to boil, add the cream and the mussels.
12. Stir and let it heat well without boiling.
13. Garnish with coriander and serve.

Recipe & Photo Credit:  Neuza Costa, saborintenso.com